This report considers the appropriateness of a national professional practice network for teachers and educators working in early childhood education and care and outside school hours care.

In this report, the Australian Education Research Organisation (AERO), in partnership with Deakin University, reviews existing professional practice networks and considers whether a national network would add meaningful value for teachers and educators. It asserts that for any new network to be effective, it must:

  • have a clear purpose and effective design
  • include a range of education and care professionals
  • be expertly moderated to foster trust
  • promote shared ownership
  • offer flexible options for participation.

This research addresses one of the action areas of the National Children’s Education and Care Workforce Strategy.


This report has been produced as Action FA3.3 under the Leadership and capability theme of the National Workforce Strategy, Shaping Our Future. It was developed by AERO in consultation with ECEC stakeholders.

The Australian Education Senior Officials Committee has agreed to the release of this report for government and sector consideration.

The publication of this report does not indicate government acceptance of any recommendations. For any queries regarding this report, please email [email protected].


Keywords: communities of practice, professional development, professional learning, teacher development, educator development, outside school hours care, OSHC, ECCE

Research report
Publication date
Last updated
Authors
Dr Jen Jackson, Bridget Healey, Professor Andrea Nolan, Dr Deb Moore, Kim Kinnear, Jessica Ciuciu, Carole Lanting and Jenni Beahan