Victorian Early Years Awards nomination guide

This award recognises early childhood services or organisations helping children to take part in early learning. They support children to attend and stay engaged, especially for vulnerable families.

The winner of this category receives a grant of $15,000 towards their project or initiative.

Examples of focus areas

Initiatives may focus on:

• supporting families to engage with early learning services
• supporting families to engage in learning from home
• improving access to high-quality early learning services for children
• increasing participation in early learning, especially for children experiencing vulnerability or disadvantage
• supporting children with developmental delay, concerns or disability and their families to participate in early learning
• adapting programs and activities to meet the diverse needs of children with disability
• supporting early childhood intervention approaches that support better learning outcomes for children
• using evidence based practice to improve how they respond to diverse families. For example, Aboriginal families, culturally and linguistically diverse families, children with developmental delay or disability.

Eligibility

This award is open to an early childhood service or organisation. Collaborative or partnership applications between multiple services and organisations are also eligible.

Applicants must be delivering projects, programs, or initiatives that help children take part in early learning. This includes supporting children to attend regularly and stay engaged.

Individuals are not eligible for this award category.

Eligible organisations may include (but are not limited to):

• early childhood education and care services and Early Years Management organisations
• primary schools
• local government services (e.g. family services, maternal and child health services)
• playgroups
• Best Start partnerships
• parenting services
• Aboriginal health organisations or cooperatives
• community service organisations
• community health organisations
• disability organisations or services
• early intervention organisations or services.

Understanding the application process

There are 3 parts to the application.

Part 1: Overview

Write a short overview of your program or initiative (up to 400 words).

This section is not scored. It provides a clear summary to help the reader understand your work.

This should read like a clear summary of your work. Use a simple structure:

• Context - What was the need or problem? When did the program start?
• Action - What did you do? How is it different from usual practice?
• Result - What has changed? Include key outcomes or achievements.

This should read as a clear, concise summary of your work.

You may briefly refer to evidence or community engagement, but full detail should also be included in your responses to the selection criteria.

This overview may be used as your profile if you are selected as a finalist.

Part 2: Selection criteria responses

Respond to each selection criteria.

The word limit is 400 words for each response.

We have developed lots of resources to support you to write a great application, including how to use a simple framework to structure your answers.

For more information visit the nomination writing assistance section on this page.

Part 3: Referees and Endorsement

You will need to provide 2 referees and include an endorser (further details below).

Selection criteria

The Victorian Early Years Learning and Development Framework (VEYLDF) supports early learning in Victoria. It focuses on children’s experiences from birth.

It gives guidance to early childhood professionals on how to support children and families in the first 8 years of life.

In your responses to the criteria, you need to explain how your initiative supports and uses the VEYLDF and the practice principles.

For more information, visit the Resources section of this page.

Criterion 1: Outcomes for children and families

Demonstrate how the initiative improves outcomes for children and families.

Consider:

• how the initiative improves outcomes for children and families, with clear examples
• how it supports families experiencing vulnerability or disadvantage
• how you know it is effective, for example evaluation, data, or feedback
• how the initiative builds the capability of children, families, communities and/or organisations to support positive outcomes for children.

Criterion 2: Evidence-based practice

Demonstrate how the initiative uses evidence-based practice.

Consider:

• what research or theories inform the initiative
• how evidence is used to design and deliver the initiative
• how the initiative is monitored to maintain quality
• how feedback and data are used to improve the initiative over time.

Criterion 3: Innovative practice

Explain how the initiative uses innovative practice to improve outcomes for children and families.

Consider:

• how the initiative is different from everyday practice
• what new ideas or approaches are used
• how it responds to local needs or gaps
• how this innovation improves support or outcomes for children and families.

Criterion 4: Sustainability

Demonstrate how the initiative is sustainable and transferable.

Consider how:

• the initiative is embedded into everyday practice
• staff are trained and supported to continue the work
• resources, funding or partnerships support long term delivery
• the initiative is reviewed, evaluated and improved over time
• it can be adapted or scaled to other settings or communities
• knowledge and practice are shared across teams or organisations.

Referees

You must provide 2 referees.

If you are shortlisted, we may contact one or both referees.

One of your referees must be:

• the service coordinator or director at your workplace
• the approved provider or early years manager at your workplace
• committee of management member
• Chief Executive Officer (or equivalent).

The second referees may be:

• senior colleague or mentor
• community member who knows your work
• Department of Education staff member, including regional staff, primary school teachers and principals.

Endorsement

If the applicant is an early childhood service or approved provider, the nomination must be endorsed by the Director (or equivalent).

If the applicant is any other organisation, the nomination must be endorsed by the Chief Executive Officer (or equivalent).

After you submit your application, a link will be emailed to your nominated endorser. They will review your application and complete the endorsement online.

The person who should endorse your application may change depending on your organisational structure. If you are unsure who to list, please contact the VEYA team for guidance.

This award recognises early childhood services or organisations supporting families, parents and carers. They help them feel confident and capable in their parenting role. They recognise parents and carers as their child’s first and most important teachers.

Examples of focus areas

Initiatives may focus on:

• strengthening the role of families, parents, and carers in children’s learning, especially those experiencing vulnerability or disadvantage
• improving the quality of relationships between parents or carers and their children
• supporting learning at home by using parenting programs based on evidence
• helping families build skills to support their child’s learning and development within everyday routines.

The winner of this Award receives a grant of $15,000 towards their project or initiative.

Eligibility

This award is open to an early childhood service or organisation. Collaborative or partnership applications between multiple services and organisations are also eligible.

Applicants must be delivering projects, programs, or initiatives that support families, parents, and carers.
Individuals are not eligible for this award category.

Eligible organisations may include (but are not limited to):

• early childhood education and care services and Early Years Management organisations
• primary schools
• local government services (e.g. family services, maternal and child health services)
• playgroups
• Best Start partnerships
• parenting services
• Aboriginal health organisations or cooperatives
• community service organisations
• community health organisations
• disability organisations or services
• early intervention organisations or services.

Understanding the application process

There are 3 parts to the application.

Part 1: Overview

Write a short overview of your program or initiative (up to 400 words).

This section is not scored. It provides a clear summary to help the reader understand your work.

This should read like a clear summary of your work. Use a simple structure:

• Context - What was the need or problem? When did the program start?
• Action - What did you do? How is it different from usual practice?
• Result - What has changed? Include key outcomes or achievements.

This should read as a clear, concise summary of your work.

You may briefly refer to evidence or community engagement, but full detail should also be included in your responses to the selection criteria.

This overview may be used as your profile if you are selected as a finalist

Part 2: Selection criteria responses

Respond to each selection criteria.

The word limit is 400 words for each response.

We have developed lots of resources to support you to write a great application, including how to use a simple framework to structure your answers.

For more information visit the nomination writing assistance section on this page.

Part 3: Referees and Endorsement

You will need to provide 2 referees and include an endorser (further details below).

Selection Criteria

The Victorian Early Years Learning and Development Framework (VEYLDF) supports early learning in Victoria. It focuses on children’s experiences from birth.

It gives guidance to early childhood professionals on how to support children and families in the first 8 years of life.

In your responses to the criteria, you need to explain how your initiative supports and uses the VEYLDF and the practice principles.

For more information, visit the Resources section of this page.

Criterion 1: Outcomes for children and families

Demonstrate how the initiative improves outcomes for children and families.

Consider:

• how the initiative improves outcomes for children and families, with clear examples
• how it supports families experiencing vulnerability or disadvantage
• how you know it is effective, for example evaluation, data, or feedback
• how the initiative builds the capability of children, families, communities and/or organisations to support positive outcomes for children.

Criterion 2: Evidence-based practice

Demonstrate how the initiative uses evidence-based practice.

Consider:

• what research or theories inform the initiative
• how evidence is used to design and deliver the initiative
• how the initiative is monitored to maintain quality
• how feedback and data are used to improve the initiative over time.

Criterion 3: Innovative practice

Explain how the initiative uses innovative practice to improve outcomes for children and families.

Consider:

• how the initiative is different from everyday practice
• what new ideas or approaches are used
• how it responds to local needs or gaps
• how this innovation improves support or outcomes for children and families.

Criterion 4: Sustainability

Demonstrate how the initiative is sustainable and transferable.

Consider how:

• the initiative is embedded into everyday practice
• staff are trained and supported to continue the work
• resources, funding or partnerships support long term delivery
• the initiative is reviewed, evaluated and improved over time
• it can be adapted or scaled to other settings or communities
• knowledge and practice are shared across teams or organisations.

Referees

You must provide 2 referees.

If you are shortlisted, we may contact one or both referees.

One of your referees must be:

• the service coordinator or director at your workplace
• the approved provider or early years manager at your workplace
• committee of management member
• Chief Executive Officer (or equivalent).

The second referees may be:

• senior colleague or mentor
• community member who knows your work
• Department of Education staff member, including regional staff, primary school teachers and principals.

Endorsement requirement

If the applicant is an early childhood service or approved provider, the nomination must be endorsed by the Director (or equivalent).

If the applicant is any other organisation, the nomination must be endorsed by the Chief Executive Officer (or equivalent).

After you submit your application, a link will be emailed to your nominated endorser. They will review your application and complete the endorsement online.

The person who should endorse your application may change depending on your organisational structure. If you are unsure who to list, please contact the VEYA team for guidance.

This award recognises partnerships between early childhood services or organisations working together to improve outcomes for children and families through collaborative practice.

The winner of this category receives a grant of $15,000 towards their project or initiative.

Examples of focus areas

Initiatives may focus on:

• improving how early childhood services and family service work together so families get support easier. For example, Maternal and Child Health, Orange Door, family support services, Child Protection and parenting services.
• working with early childhood intervention services or organisations to create new programs based on evidence. These programs might help children with developmental delay, concerns, or disability take part in early learning and support their families to feel included.
• working together with other services to provide coordinated, wrap-round support for children and families, especially those who are vulnerable.
• services in the same area plan together and share information so they can work better as a team to support children and families
• using research to develop and guide partnerships and show that they improve outcomes for children.

Eligibility

This award must be submitted by a partnership between two or more early childhood services or organisations.
Individuals are not eligible for this award category.

Eligible organisations may include (but are not limited to):

• early childhood education and care services and Early Years Management organisation
• primary schools
• local government services (e.g. family services, maternal and child health services)
• playgroups
• Best Start partnerships
• parenting services
• Aboriginal health organisations or cooperatives
• community service organisations
• community health organisations
• disability organisations or services
• early intervention organisations or services.

Understanding the application process

There are 3 parts to the application.

Part 1: Overview

Write a short overview of your program or initiative (up to 400 words).

This section is not scored. It provides a clear summary to help the reader understand your work.

This should read like a clear summary of your work. Use a simple structure:

• Context - What was the need or problem? When did the program start?
• Action - What did you do? How is it different from usual practice?
• Result - What has changed? Include key outcomes or achievements.

This should read as a clear, concise summary of your work.

You may briefly refer to evidence or community engagement, but full detail should also be included in your responses to the selection criteria.

This overview may be used as your profile if you are selected as a finalist

Part 2: Selection criteria responses

Respond to each selection criteria.

The word limit is 400 words for each response.

We have developed lots of resources to support you to write a great application, including how to use a simple framework to structure your answers.

For more information visit the nomination writing assistance section on this page.

Part 3: Referees and Endorsement

You will need to provide 2 referees and include an endorser (further details below).

Selection Criteria

The Victorian Early Years Learning and Development Framework (VEYLDF) supports early learning in Victoria. It focuses on children’s experiences from birth.

It gives guidance to early childhood professionals on how to support children and families in the first 8 years of life.

In your responses to the criteria, you need to explain how your initiative supports and uses the VEYLDF and the practice principles.

For more information, visit the Resources section of this page.

Criterion 1: Outcomes for children and families

Demonstrate how the initiative improves outcomes for children and families.

Consider:

• how the initiative improves outcomes for children and families, with clear examples
• how it supports families experiencing vulnerability or disadvantage
• how you know it is effective, for example evaluation, data, or feedback
• how the initiative builds the capability of children, families, communities and/or organisations to support positive outcomes for children.

Criterion 2: Evidence-based practice

Demonstrate how the initiative uses evidence-based practice.

Consider:

• what research or theories inform the initiative
• how evidence is used to design and deliver the initiative
• how the initiative is monitored to maintain quality
• how feedback and data are used to improve the initiative over time.

Criterion 3: Innovative practice

Explain how the initiative uses innovative practice to improve outcomes for children and families.

Consider:

• how the initiative is different from everyday practice
• what new ideas or approaches are used
• how it responds to local needs or gaps
• how this innovation improves support or outcomes for children and families.

Criterion 4: Sustainability

Demonstrate how the initiative is sustainable and transferable.

Consider how:

• the initiative is embedded into everyday practice
• staff are trained and supported to continue the work
• resources, funding or partnerships support long term delivery
• the initiative is reviewed, evaluated and improved over time
• it can be adapted or scaled to other settings or communities
• knowledge and practice are shared across teams or organisations.

Referees

You must provide 2 referees.

If you are shortlisted, we may contact one or both referees.

One of your referees must be:

• the service coordinator or director at your workplace
• the approved provider or early years manager at your workplace
• committee of management member
• Chief Executive Officer (or equivalent).

Second referees may be:

• senior colleague or mentor
• community member who knows your work

Department of Education staff member, including regional staff, primary school teachers and principals.

Endorsement

If the applicant is an early childhood service or approved provider, the nomination must be endorsed by the Director (or equivalent).

If the applicant is any other organisation, the nomination must be endorsed by the Chief Executive Officer (or equivalent).

After you submit your application, a link will be emailed to your nominated endorser. They will review your application and complete the endorsement online.

The person who should endorse your application may vary depending on your organisational structure. If you are unsure who to list, please contact the VEYA team for guidance.

This award recognises early childhood services or organisations that are improving the health and wellbeing outcomes for young children.

The winner of this category receives a grant of $15,000 towards their project or initiative.

Examples of focus areas

Initiatives may focus on:

• helping more children and families, especially those facing disadvantage, access and take part in health and wellbeing activities
• aligning with current public health policy and practice (for example, the Victorian Public Health and Wellbeing Plan 2023 – 2027 or The Healthy Early Childhood Services Achievement Program)
• creating spaces that support the physical, social, and emotional wellbeing of young children and their families
• using flexible and creative approaches that respond to the health and wellbeing needs of children and families in the local community
• listening to children and using their ideas to help shape health programs and initiatives
• working with families, health services, and other community services to support children’s health and wellbeing.

Eligibility

This award is open to an early childhood service or organisation. Collaborative or partnership applications between multiple services and organisations are also eligible.

Applicants must be delivering projects, programs, or initiatives that are improving the health and wellbeing outcomes for young children.

Individuals are not eligible for this award category.

Eligible organisations may include (but are not limited to):

• early childhood education and care services and Early Years Management organisations
• primary schools
• local government services (e.g. family services, maternal and child health services)
• playgroups
• Best Start partnerships
• parenting services
• Aboriginal health organisations or cooperatives
• community service organisations
• community health organisations
• disability organisations or services
• early intervention organisations or services.

Understanding the application process

There are 3 parts to the application.

Part 1: Overview

Write a short overview of your program or initiative (up to 400 words).

This section is not scored. It provides a clear summary to help the reader understand your work.

This should read like a clear summary of your work. Use a simple structure:

• Context - What was the need or problem? When did the program start?
• Action - What did you do? How is it different from usual practice?
• Result - What has changed? Include key outcomes or achievements.

This should read as a clear, concise summary of your work.

You may briefly refer to evidence or community engagement, but full detail should also be included in your responses to the selection criteria.

This overview may be used as your profile if you are selected as a finalist

Part 2: Selection criteria responses

Respond to each selection criteria.

The word limit is 400 words for each response.

We have developed lots of resources to support you to write a great application, including how to use a simple framework to structure your answers.

For more information visit the nomination writing assistance section on this page.

Part 3: Referees and Endorsement

You will need to provide 2 referees and include an endorser (further details below).

Selection Criteria

The Victorian Early Years Learning and Development Framework (VEYLDF) supports early learning in Victoria. It focuses on children’s experiences from birth.

It gives guidance to early childhood professionals on how to support children and families in the first 8 years of life.

In your responses to the criteria, you need to explain how your initiative supports and uses the VEYLDF and the practice principles.

For more information, visit the Resources section of this page.

Criterion 1: Outcomes for children and families

Demonstrate how the initiative improves outcomes for children and families.

Consider:

• how the initiative improves outcomes for children and families, with clear examples
• how it supports families experiencing vulnerability or disadvantage
• how you know it is effective, for example evaluation, data, or feedback
• how the initiative builds the capability of children, families, communities and/or organisations to support positive outcomes for children.

Criterion 2: Evidence-based practice

Demonstrate how the initiative uses evidence-based practice.

Consider:

• what research or theories inform the initiative
• how evidence is used to design and deliver the initiative
• how the initiative is monitored to maintain quality
• how feedback and data are used to improve the initiative over time.

Criterion 3: Innovative practice

Explain how the initiative uses innovative practice to improve outcomes for children and families.

Consider:

• how the initiative is different from everyday practice
• what new ideas or approaches are used
• how it responds to local needs or gaps
• how this innovation improves support or outcomes for children and families.

Criterion 4: Sustainability

Demonstrate how the initiative is sustainable and transferable.

Consider how:

• the initiative is embedded into everyday practice
• staff are trained and supported to continue the work
• resources, funding or partnerships support long term delivery
• the initiative is reviewed, evaluated and improved over time
• it can be adapted or scaled to other settings or communities
• knowledge and practice are shared across teams or organisations.

Referees

You must provide 2 referees.

If you are shortlisted, we may contact one or both referees.

One of your referees must be:

• the service coordinator or director at your workplace
• the approved provider or early years manager at your workplace
• committee of management member
• Chief Executive Officer (or equivalent).

The second referees may be:

• senior colleague or mentor
• community member who knows your work
• Department of Education staff member, including regional staff, primary school teachers and principals.

Endorsement

If the applicant is an early childhood service or approved provider, the nomination must be endorsed by the Director (or equivalent).

If the applicant is any other organisation, the nomination must be endorsed by the Chief Executive Officer (or equivalent).

After you submit your application, a link will be emailed to your nominated endorser. They will review your application and complete the endorsement online.

The person who should endorse your application may vary depending on your organisational structure. If you are unsure who to list, please contact the VEYA team for guidance.

This award recognises early childhood services, primary schools or organisations working together. Their partnership supports children to successfully move between early learning settings and school.

The winner of this category receives a grant of $15,000 towards their project or initiative.

Examples of focus areas

Initiatives may have a focus on:

• using new and effective approaches aligned with the Victorian Early Years Learning and Development Framework to support children’s transition from kindergarten to school
• making transition practices flexible so they meet the needs of individual children and families
• providing extra support during the transition to school for children and families experiencing vulnerability or disadvantage
• building strong, two-way relationships between early childhood services and primary schools
• using input from the child and their family to plan and adjust support for a smooth transition to school
• working in teams across different services to support smooth transitions for children. Examples of these teams could be early childhood educators, school teachers, maternal child health services, early childhood intervention services and outside school hours care.

Eligibility

This award must be submitted by a partnership between two or more early childhood services, primary schools or organisations.

Applicants must be delivering projects, programs, or initiatives that supports children to successfully move between early learning settings and school.

Individuals are not eligible for this award category.

Eligible organisations may include (but are not limited to):

• early childhood education and care services and Early Years Management organisations
• primary schools
• local government services (e.g. family services, maternal and child health services)
• playgroups
• Best Start partnerships
• parenting services
• Aboriginal health organisations or cooperatives
• community service organisations
• community health organisations
• disability organisations or services
• early intervention organisations or services.

Understanding the application process

There are 3 parts to the application.

Part 1: Overview

Write a short overview of your program or initiative (up to 400 words).

This section is not scored. It provides a clear summary to help the reader understand your work.

This should read like a clear summary of your work. Use a simple structure:

• Context - What was the need or problem? When did the program start?
• Action - What did you do? How is it different from usual practice?
• Result - What has changed? Include key outcomes or achievements.

This should read as a clear, concise summary of your work.

You may briefly refer to evidence or community engagement, but full detail should also be included in your responses to the selection criteria.

This overview may be used as your profile if you are selected as a finalist

Part 2: Selection criteria responses

Respond to each selection criteria.

The word limit is 400 words for each response.

We have developed lots of resources to support you to write a great application, including how to use a simple framework to structure your answers.

For more information visit the nomination writing assistance section on this page.

Part 3: Referees and Endorsement

You will need to provide 2 referees and include an endorser (further details below).

Selection Criteria

The Victorian Early Years Learning and Development Framework (VEYLDF) supports early learning in Victoria. It focuses on children’s experiences from birth.

It gives guidance to early childhood professionals on how to support children and families in the first 8 years of life.

In your responses to the criteria, you need to explain how your initiative supports and uses the VEYLDF and the practice principles.

For more information, visit the Resources section of this page.

Criterion 1: Outcomes for children and families

Demonstrate how the initiative improves outcomes for children and families.

Consider:

• how the initiative improves outcomes for children and families, with clear examples
• how it supports families experiencing vulnerability or disadvantage
• how you know it is effective, for example evaluation, data, or feedback
• how the initiative builds the capability of children, families, communities and/or organisations to support positive outcomes for children.

Criterion 2: Evidence-based practice

Demonstrate how the initiative uses evidence-based practice.

Consider:

• what research or theories inform the initiative
• how evidence is used to design and deliver the initiative
• how the initiative is monitored to maintain quality
• how feedback and data are used to improve the initiative over time.

Criterion 3: Innovative practice

Explain how the initiative uses innovative practice to improve outcomes for children and families.

Consider:

• how the initiative is different from everyday practice
• what new ideas or approaches are used
• how it responds to local needs or gaps
• how this innovation improves support or outcomes for children and families.

Criterion 4: Sustainability

Demonstrate how the initiative is sustainable and transferable.

Consider how:

• the initiative is embedded into everyday practice
• staff are trained and supported to continue the work
• resources, funding or partnerships support long term delivery
• the initiative is reviewed, evaluated and improved over time
• it can be adapted or scaled to other settings or communities
• knowledge and practice are shared across teams or organisations.

Referees

You must provide 2 referees.

If you are shortlisted, we may contact one or both referees.

One of your referees must be:

• the service coordinator or director at your workplace
• the approved provider or early years manager at your workplace
• committee of management member
• Chief Executive Officer (or equivalent).

Second referees may be:

• senior colleague or mentor
• community member who knows your work
• Department of Education staff member, including regional staff, primary school teachers and principals.

Endorsement

If the applicant is an early childhood service or approved provider, the nomination must be endorsed by the Director (or equivalent).

If the applicant is any other organisation, the nomination must be endorsed by the Chief Executive Officer (or equivalent).

After you submit your application, a link will be emailed to your nominated endorser. They will review your application and complete the endorsement online.

The person who should endorse your application may change depending on your organisational structure. If you are unsure who to list, please contact the VEYA team for guidance.

This award recognises an early childhood teacher who uses evidence to improve their practice and try new approaches. They lead and deliver high-quality learning programs that support improved learning and development outcomes for children.

The winner of this category receives a grant of $15,000 towards their project or initiative.

Eligibility

Nominees for the Early Childhood Teacher of the Year Award must be:

• a provisional or fully registered early childhood teacher with the Victorian Institute of Teaching (registration must be current).
• Currently employed in a Victorian licensed children’s or approved education and care service that receives state government funding to provide a kindergarten program. Funded kindergarten programs can be delivered in stand-alone kindergartens, long day care centres and schools.

Understanding the application process

There are 2 parts to the application.

Part 1: Selection criteria responses

Respond to each selection criteria.

Check the word limit for each criteria as they each are different.

We have developed lots of resources to support you to write a great application, including how to use a simple framework to structure your answers.

For more information visit Nomination writing assistance.

Part 2: Referees and Endorsement

You will need to provide 2 referees and include an endorser. (further details below)

Selection Criteria

The Victorian Early Years Learning and Development Framework (VEYLDF) supports early learning in Victoria. It focuses on children’s experiences from birth.

It gives guidance to early childhood professionals on how to support children and families in the first 8 years of life.

In your responses to the criteria, you need to explain how your initiative supports and uses the VEYLDF and the practice principles.

For more information, visit the Resources section of this page.

Criteria 1: Impact

How do you use your practice to improve outcomes for children’s learning, development, and wellbeing? (350 words)

Consider:

• one or two examples of how your teaching has improved outcomes for children
• what changed for the children because of your practice
• how you know this changed (what evidence or data do you have to support this? for example observations, family surveys)
• how do you adapt your practice to meet the needs of different children
• how your practice aligns with the VEYLDF Practice Principles.

Criterion 2: Professional practice and collaboration

Describe how your professional knowledge, teaching practice, and collaboration with others, supports high-quality early childhood education (1200 words).

Consider:

• how your practice reflects the service’s educational philosophy
• how your practice reflects the service’s educational philosophy, in line with the National Quality Framework (NQF), Quality Area 7: Governance and

Leadership, Element 7.1.1 (Service philosophy and purpose)

• how you plan, implement, assess, and reflect on your educational programs
• how you work with colleagues to improve teaching and learning
• how you work with families to support children’s learning and wellbeing
• how you use early childhood theory and the VEYLDF in your practice
• provide specific examples of your exemplary programming and practice that you utilise to support children’s learning.

Criterion 3: Professional growth and leadership

Demonstrate how you continue to develop your practice and support others to grow professionally. (350 words)

Consider how you:

• engage in ongoing professional learning
• critically reflect on, and improve your practice over time
• contribute to professional conversations and critical reflection within your service, network, or community
• support or influence the practice of others in your setting.

Referees

You must provide 2 referees.

If you are shortlisted, we may contact one or both referees.

One of your referees must be:

• the service coordinator or director at your workplace
• the approved provider or early years manager at your workplace
• committee of management member
• Chief Executive Officer (or equivalent).

Second referees may be:

• senior colleague or mentor
• community member who knows your work
• Department of Education staff member, including regional staff, primary school teachers and principals.

Endorsement

Your nomination must be endorsed by the Director (or equivalent). You cannot endorse your own nomination.

After you submit your application, a link will be emailed to your nominated endorser. They will review your application and complete the endorsment online.

The person who should endorse your application may change depending on your organisational structure. If you are unsure who to list, please contact the VEYA team for guidance.

The person who should endorse your application may change depending on your organisational structure. If you are unsure who to list, please contact the VEYA team for guidance.

This award recognises an educational leader, early childhood service, or an approved provider. They have led their educators and teachers to significantly improve the quality of their learning and teaching practices. They focus on intentional teaching practices to improve outcomes for Victorian children and their families.

The winner of this Award receives a grant of $15,000 towards their project or initiative (if they are an early childhood service or an approved provider) or $15,000 towards their professional learning if they are an early childhood educational leader.

Eligibility

You must:

• be an early childhood service or an approved provider who receives state government funding to deliver a kindergarten program. Funded kindergarten programs can be delivered in stand-alone kindergartens, long day care centres and schools.

OR

• be an educational leader who is employed at an early childhood service who receives state government funding to deliver a kindergarten program. Note: An educational leader is the person nominated at each early years' service under the National Quality Framework, Quality Area 7.

Understanding the application process

There are 3 parts to the application.

Part 1: Overview

Write a short overview of your program or initiative (up to 400 words).

This section is not scored. It provides a clear summary to help the reader understand your work.

This should read like a clear summary of your work. Use a simple structure:

• Context - What was the need or problem? When did the program start?
• Action - What did you do? How is it different from usual practice?
• Result - What has changed? Include key outcomes or achievements.

This should read as a clear, concise summary of your work.

You may briefly refer to evidence or collaboration, but full detail should also be included in your responses to the selection criteria.

This overview may be used as your profile if you are selected as a finalist.

Part 2: Selection criteria responses

Respond to each selection criteria.

The word limit is 400 words for each response.

We have developed lots of resources to support you to write a great application, including how to use a simple framework to structure your answers.

For more information visit the nomination writing assistance section on this page.

Part 3: Referees and Endorsement

You will need to provide 2 referees and include an endorser. (further details below)

Selection Criteria

The Victorian Early Years Learning and Development Framework (VEYLDF) supports early learning in Victoria. It focuses on children’s experiences from birth.

It gives guidance to early childhood professionals on how to support children and families in the first 8 years of life.

In your responses to the criteria, you need to explain how your initiative supports and uses the VEYLDF and the practice principles.

For more information visit the Resources section of this page.

Criterion 1: Leadership and quality improvement

How do you demonstrate effective leadership to improve teaching practice?

Consider:

• What is your approach to educational leadership
• How do you ensure educator and teacher practice is informed by early childhood theory and learning and development frameworks such as the Victorian Early Years Learning and Development Framework
• How do you lead and sustain continuous quality improvement across the service or services
• How do you support educators and teachers to strengthen their teaching practice
• What evidence shows that leadership actions have led to changes in teaching practice over time.

Criterion 2: Professional learning and reflective practice

How do you embed reflective practice and ongoing professional learning?

Consider how:

• you support and prioritise ongoing professional learning for educators and teachers
• are new learnings shared, embedded and sustained across the service or services
• reflective practice is used to inform and improve teaching.

Criterion 3: Intentional teaching and impact on practice

How do you embed intentional teaching practices to improve children’s learning outcomes?

Consider:

• How intentional teaching practices are planned, implemented and reviewed
• How are educators and teachers supported to review and strengthen their teaching
• What evidence demonstrates improved learning and development outcomes for children
• What evidence demonstrates improved quality of teaching practice of educators and teachers.

Referees

You must provide 2 referees.

If you are shortlisted, we may contact one or both referees.

One of your referees must be:

• the service coordinator or director at your workplace
• the approved provider or early years manager at your workplace
• committee of management member
• Chief Executive Officer (or equivalent).

The second referees may be:

• senior colleague or mentor
• community member who knows your work

Department of Education staff member, including regional staff, primary school teachers and principals.

Endorsement

Your nomination must be endorsed by the early childhood service or approved provider Director (or equivalent). You cannot endorse your own nomination.

After you submit your application, a link will be emailed to your nominated endorser. They will review your application and complete the endorsement online.

The person who should endorse your application may change depending on your organisational structure. If you are unsure who to list, please contact the VEYA team for guidance.

This award recognises an early childhood service that provides holistic that engage Aboriginal children and families. They embed Aboriginal perspectives and strengthen the voices of Koorie families and local community members through partnerships that support self-determination*.

* Self-determination is about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples having the right and ability to make decisions about their children, families and communities. This includes in education services.

The winner of this Award receives a grant of $15,000 towards their initiative.

Examples of focus areas

Initiatives may focus on:

• Working in partnership with Koorie families and community. Such as through:
  • supporting Koorie children’s learning, development, or wellbeing
  • listening to and strengthening the voice and leadership of Koorie families
  • working together to make decisions about learning, program and service direction
• Embedding local Aboriginal perspectives in everyday learning. Examples might be:
  • Planning the curriculum centred on local Country, language, and stories
  • Helping children learn honest, truths about Aboriginal history and experiences as part of everyday learning, not just during special events like NAIDOC Week
  • including reflecting and celebrating Koorie cultures, knowledge, and lived experiences in daily teaching for all children
• Cultural safety and service practice
  • Working with the local Koorie community to guide practice
  • Supporting staff, children, and families to understand and respect Koorie cultures
  • embedding cultural safety across the service through ongoing guidance from the local Koorie community, resulting in clear changes to practice, policies and learning environments
  • Educators and teachers to work together through shared planning, assessment and reflection, to meaningfully embed Aboriginal perspectives in teaching practice and in how children’s learning is documented and communicated.

Eligibility

You must:

• be an early childhood service or an approved provider who receives state government funding to deliver a kindergarten program. Funded kindergarten programs can be delivered in stand-alone kindergartens, long day care centres and schools.

Please note that individuals are not eligible for this award category.

Understanding the application process

There are 3 parts to the application.

Part 1: Overview

Write a short overview of your program or initiative (up to 400 words).

This section is not scored. It provides a clear summary to help the reader understand your work.

This should read like a clear summary of your work. Use a simple structure:

• Context - What was the need or problem? When did the program start?
• Action - What did you do? How is it different from usual practice?
• Result - What has changed? Include key outcomes or achievements.

This should read as a clear, concise summary of your work.

You may briefly refer to evidence or community engagement, but full detail should also be included in your responses to the selection criteria.

This overview may be used as your profile if you are selected as a finalist.

Part 2: Selection criteria responses

Respond to each selection criteria.

The word limit is 400 words for each response.

We have developed lots of resources to support you to write a great application, including how to use a simple framework to structure your answers.

For more information visit the nomination writing assistance section on this page.

Part 3: Referees and Endorsement

You will need to provide 2 referees and include an endorser (further details below).

Selection Criteria

The Victorian Early Years Learning and Development Framework (VEYLDF) supports early learning in Victoria. It focuses on children’s experiences from birth.

It gives guidance to early childhood professionals on how to support children and families in the first 8 years of life.

In your responses to the criteria, you need to explain how your initiative supports and uses the VEYLDF and the practice principles.

For more information, visit the Resources section of this page.

Criteria 1: Focus on children and families

Demonstrate how your early childhood service supports Koorie children and families through strong partnerships that respect self-determination*.

* Self-determination is about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples having real authority and influence over decisions that affect their children, families, and communities, including in education services.

Consider how your service:

• works with Koorie families to support children’s learning, wellbeing, and identity
• genuinely includes Koorie families in decisions about their child’s learning and development
• improves access, participation, and outcomes for Koorie children and families
• creates a safe and welcoming environment that supports belonging for all children.

Criteria 2: Quality teaching and learning with Aboriginal perspectives

Demonstrate how your service provides high-quality teaching and learning that includes Aboriginal perspectives.

Consider how your service:

• supports staff to build knowledge and confidence in Aboriginal perspectives
• includes Aboriginal cultures, knowledge, and histories in everyday learning
• uses teaching, planning, and assessment to support better learning outcomes for Koorie children
• reflects on teaching practice to improve inclusion and cultural understanding
• ensures reporting shows children’s learning in meaningful ways for families.

Criteria 3: Collaborate with community and the system

Describe how your service demonstrates collaborative partnerships with the Koorie community and the broader early years system.

Consider how your service:

• builds respectful and ongoing relationships with local Koorie community members and Traditional Owners
• includes Koorie community voices in planning and decision-making
• works with Aboriginal organisations and local services to support children and families
• takes part in local networks and shared learning groups to improve practice (such as Communities of Practice, Early Years Networks)
• works as a team with others, such as families, educators, health professionals, and Koorie support services. This may include sharing information, setting shared goals, and supporting the learning, wellbeing, and cultural identity of Koorie children.

Referees

You must provide 2 referees.

If you are shortlisted, we may contact one or both referees.

One of your referees must be:

• the service coordinator or director at your workplace
• the approved provider or early years manager at your workplace
• committee of management member
• Chief Executive Officer (or equivalent).

The second referees may be:

• senior colleague or mentor
• community member who knows your work
• Department of Education staff member, including regional staff, primary school teachers and principals.

Endorsement

Your nomination must be endorsed by the early childhood service or approved provider Director (or equivalent). You cannot endorse your own nomination.

After you submit your application, a link will be emailed to your nominated endorser. They will review your application and complete the endorsement online.

The person who should endorse your application may change depending on your organisational structure. If you are unsure who to list, please contact the VEYA team for guidance.

This award recognises an early childhood educator who has demonstrated innovative and exemplary practice in early childhood education and care. Their nomination will demonstrate how they have made a significant contribution to the delivery of high-quality early childhood education programs and/or achieved significant improvements in children’s learning and development outcomes.

The winner of this Award receives a grant of $15,000 towards their professional development.

Eligibility

Nominees for the Educator of the Year Award:

• Must have an ACECQA recognised certificate III or diploma qualified early childhood qualification.
• must be currently employed in a Victorian licensed children’s or approved education and care service that receives state government funding to provide a kindergarten program. Funded kindergarten programs can be delivered in stand-alone kindergartens, long day care centres and schools.
• who are upskilling and are already leading a kindergarten program under alternative funding arrangements are eligible to apply within this category
• do not have to be working in the kindergarten program to be eligible for this category.

Understanding the application process

There are 2 parts to the application.

Part 1: Selection criteria responses

Respond to each selection criteria: Check the word limit for each criteria as they are different.

We have developed lots of resources to support you to write a great application, including how to use a simple framework to structure your answers.

For more information visit the nomination writing assistance section on this page.

Part 2: Referees and Endorsement

You will need to provide 2 referees and include an endorser (further details below).

Selection Criteria

The Victorian Early Years Learning and Development Framework (VEYLDF) supports early learning in Victoria. It focuses on children’s experiences from birth.

It gives guidance to early childhood professionals on how to support children and families in the first 8 years of life.

In your responses to the criteria, you need to explain how your initiative supports and uses the VEYLDF and the practice principles.

For more information, visit the Resources section of this page.

Selection Criteria

Criteria 1: Impact

How do you use your practice to improve outcomes for children’s learning, development, and wellbeing? (350 words)

Consider:

• one or two examples of how your teaching has improved outcomes for children
• what changed for the children because of your practice
• how you know this changed (what evidence or data do you have to support this? for example observations, family surveys)
• how do you adapt your practice to meet the needs of different children
• how your practice aligns with the VEYLDF Practice Principles.

Criterion 2: Professional practice and collaboration

Describe how your professional knowledge, teaching practice, and collaboration with others, supports high-quality early childhood education (1200 words).

Consider:

• how your practice reflects the service’s educational philosophy
• how your practice reflects the service’s educational philosophy, in line with the National Quality Framework (NQF), Quality Area 7: Governance and Leadership, Element 7.1.1 (Service philosophy and purpose)
• how you plan, implement, assess, and reflect on your educational programs
• how you work with colleagues to improve teaching and learning
• how you work with families to support children’s learning and wellbeing
• how you use early childhood theory and the VEYLDF in your practice
• provide specific examples of your exemplary programming and practice that you utilise to support children’s learning.

Criterion 3: Professional growth and leadership

Demonstrate how you continue to develop your practice and support others to grow professionally. (350 words)

Consider how you:

• engage in ongoing professional learning
• critically reflect on, and improve your practice over time
• contribute to professional conversations and critical reflection within your service, network, or community
  support or influence the practice of others in your setting.

Referees

You must provide 2 referees.

If you are shortlisted, we may contact one or both referees.

One of your referees must be:

• the service coordinator or director at your workplace
• the approved provider or early years manager at your workplace
• committee of management member
• Chief Executive Officer (or equivalent).

The second referees may be

• senior colleague or mentor
• community member who knows your work
• Department of Education staff member, including regional staff, primary school teachers and principals.

Endorsement

Your nomination must be endorsed by the early childhood service or approved provider Director (or equivalent). You cannot endorse your own nomination.

After you submit your application, a link will be emailed to your nominated endorser. They will review your application and complete the endorsement online.

The person who should endorse your application may change depending on your organisational structure. If you are unsure who to list, please contact the VEYA team for guidance.