Applications are now open for the Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) Educator Awards Program. This initiative aims to celebrate the important work of local early childhood educators and provide support to help them continue delivering high-quality care.
The program recognises high-performing educators across the sector, including those operating Family Day Care Centres, with funding available to support their professional growth and enhance their services.
Eligible recipients can use the funding for professional development, accommodation expenses, or to purchase new educational equipment for their Family Day Care Centre. The City encourages all early childhood educators to apply and welcomes nominations from those who know an educator making a difference.
What is the Awards Program?
The Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) Educator Awards Program is a rewards and recognition scheme funded by a grant from the Department of Communities that helps retain high-performing ECEC educators in Kalgoorlie-Boulder.
Who can apply or be nominated?
Any ECEC educator employed by a long day care centre or family day care centre who considers they have made a valuable contribution to the Kalgoorlie-Boulder ECEC sector. Educators who are still studying at Central Regional TAFE and either working or on placement at a centre in Kalgoorlie-Boulder can also apply.
What awards are provided?
Up to 30 grants of between $500 and $1,000 will be awarded. The City has a total pool of $25,000 for the awards program.
What are the different types of awards?
Educators can apply to one of three different categories. (They can also be nominated by their employer):
- Educators at long day care centres can apply for grants of between $500 and $1,000 to be used towards accommodation costs.
- Educators at long day centres can also apply for grants of between $500 and $1,000 to be used for accommodation and professional development – at least half the funding must be used for accommodation.
- Educators at family day care centres can apply for grants of $750 to purchase new equipment for their centre. Please note the Department of Communities has stipulated that this is the only use of funding for which family day care centres can apply, they are not eligible to apply for the other two grants.
What do I need to provide in my application?
You will be asked to write a short letter about your career and commitment to the Kalgoorlie-Boulder ECEC sector; qualifications, studies and professional development; your future plans in ECEC; and how the funding would assist you. You can also attach supporting references to your application.
Does my application need to be supported by my employer?
Educators can both apply independently to the awards program, or be nominated by their employer. If your employer has not nominated you, you can still apply. You are welcome to provide a supporting reference from your employer with your application.
When does the scheme open and close?
Applications will open on Monday, 26 May and close at 5pm on Sunday, 15 June.
When will the grants be provided to successful applicants?
If applicants are successful, they will be advised in June, and award payments will be made in July.
Do I need to keep working at my ECEC centre if I receive an award?
Yes, award recipients will be required to keep working at their current ECEC centre for at least six months.