Strong leadership is a crucial element of a successful early childhood education and care (ECEC) program.

Leaders set the tone for positive learning experiences, and create an environment where children feel safe, respected and motivated to learn, and where educators are motivated and inspired to bring the very best of themselves to work.

Building, growing and nurturing leaders is a priority for us here at Jenny’s ELC. Leadership isn’t just about titles like room leader, or Director – it’s about recognising leadership in all its different forms, from stepping up to build strong relationships with a family who is a little nervous about starting care, to going above and beyond to put resources in play for educators who need a little more confidence in areas of program and pedagogy.

“We strongly believe in ongoing opportunities for our team to engage in conversations with our leaders as to where they are wanting to take their careers”- Sally Hicks – Head of Operations said.

“We do this through traditional methods, such as during reviews and through conversations with our senior leaders, but also through putting our people forward for professional development in areas identified by the team and specific to growth and leadership, ongoing mentoring and study.”

Our Educators complete an annual wrap up, part of which includes a “where to” form, identifying their greatest achievements from the year that was, and outlining what they would like to achieve in the year ahead.

These conversations are often valuable opportunities for senior leaders in our team to recognise potential leaders and encourage them to step into leadership roles and embrace opportunities.

“We often use these conversations to talk about what people are looking for in their career, and how we can support them to meet their goals,” Sally said.

Some of the skills and attributes of emerging leaders in ECEC that we look for include:

• Organisational skills, and the ability to manage competing priorities
• Interpersonal skills – to build those all important relationships with colleagues and families
• Communication skills – to support others, to manage tricky conversations, and to ensure that important messages are passed on to families
• Advocacy – for children, for families, for the team, and for ECEC as a whole
• Policy knowledge – we love leaders who ‘know their stuff’ and who are keen to learn more
• Research skills – being able to seek out new information to support others, and to ensure that their pedagogy and practice is in line with contemporary thinking

Are you a leader in waiting? Talk to our team today about how we can support you to achieve your leadership potential with Jenny’s ELC.

Phone 03 5454 3993, email hrvic@jennyselc.com.au or visit our website here to learn more.