Training Overview

Welcome to the start of a new era in Gowrie NSW Training and Professional Development. 2011 commenced with our Head Office relocating to new premises in Alexandria where all Head Office staff are under one roof for the first time in many decades.

Over the next three years we will further develop our diverse training calendar by combining previous training with a great range of professional development programs and special events that we will deliver throughout NSW. We look forward to having you involved in this process through critical reflection and evaluation of our training.

Training Philosophy & Expertise

Throughout the year, Gowrie NSW provides Training and Professional Development workshops and special events for the early childhood education and care sector. The training sessions feature a high calibre of Australian and international presenters including some of the most well-regarded, high profile practitioners, academics and educators working in the sector today.

Ongoing training is vital to maintaining a high standard of service across Gowrie’s own programs and for the wider early childhood sector. It forms an important part of the Gowrie philosophy which is to grow and deliver innovative services to children and families and to support, influence and positively engage their professional community.

Gowrie’s in-depth understanding of the current training requirements of the profession, along with decades of experience and a reputation for engaging quality speakers, has helped to establish a strong training function. Training topics centre around contemporary themes such as the National Quality Framework including Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF), National Quality Standards (NQS), national and international research on best practice, enhancing quality infant and toddler care and promoting practice that connects children meaningfully to the natural world.

Gowrie’s contribution to training in the sector is recognised and reflected in the continual support from both government funding providers such as Community Services and funding partnerships formed with organisations such as the Australian Council for Educational Research, Early Childhood Australia, Charles Sturt University, the University of New England, Macquarie University, Penrith City Council Children’s Services, The Benevolent Society, Uniting Care Burnside and Children’s Services Central and the Community Childcare Co-operative.

Policy Influence & Professional Enhancement

Gowrie NSW has also been an active participant in a range of government forums and consultations, contributing to the support of training and professional development throughout the early childhood sector. It is an active member of advisory groups such as Early Childhood Australia, NSW Community Services and Health ITAB – NSW Children’s Services Advisory Group, the Early Childhood Professional Experience Council (NSW) and the TAFE NSW Early Childhood Degree Advisory Committee.

The benefits of participating in Gowrie NSW training sessions are manifold. They provide participants with an invaluable opportunity to meet, exchange ideas with and network with fellow professionals and key people from the global early childhood community. The training program also helps busy practitioners’ access and become better acquainted with research-based evidence and theoretical frameworks which not only enhances the profession as a whole but form the cornerstone of a quality, child-focused practice.

Training in Rural and Metropolitan Locations

Training sessions take place in locations across the State, from the Sydney metropolitan area to rural NSW and the ACT, including remote parts of far western NSW. Gowrie NSW was one of the first childcare organisations to provide significant support to regional and rural areas, conducting high quality road shows for many years. The choices of topics offered to rural communities take the advice from local people and focus on issues that are most relevant to them. This process builds strong local connections, ensuring lively professional development experiences for all.

One of the highlights of the 2011 rural and regional training program will be the early childhood expert and author, Joy Lubawy, whose 30-year career as a preschool teacher and director offers practical, entertaining presentations which reflect her enriching classroom experiences. Joy has written extensively on ways to support educators implement the Early Years Learning Framework vision initiated by the Federal Government. The sessions are designed to increase awareness and reflection on EYLF and explore the stimulating and diverse experiences that can promote children’s learning and development.

All training sessions are well subscribed, with participants attending from all over the state. If you would like to attend any of our training and professional development selections, please contact Gowrie NSW Head Office on (02) 85719743. Alternatively, you can email the training team at training@gowrie-sydney.com.au