Latest news with #earlyeducation
CBC
16 hours ago
- General
- CBC
Yellowknife school launches land-based junior kindergarten
Gloria Gaudet has been teaching junior kindergarten for two years, and come the fall, she will be doing it a whole new way. She will lead Weledeh Catholic School in Yellowknife's first land-based junior kindergarten class. "I am excited and a little nervous. I think it's such a great opportunity to connect to the children, to the land and our traditional ways at an early age," she said. "And it's also a big responsibility." The new program, open to up to 20 kids, will split the school day between an indoor and outdoor classroom, merging the existing junior kindergarten curriculum with outdoor play and traditional knowledge. So far, three quarters of the spots have already filled up. The program has been in the works since last fall and was designed with help from Weledeh staff, the school district's Indigenous language education team and their connections with the community, from whom they sought feedback. "One of the biggest things we heard is that we want these kids to understand the importance of the land and how valuable it is," said Paul Kelly, the school's new principal. He also sees the return to play as a potential way to fend off the rise in mental health concerns observed in schools "not just here, but all over the world." Kelly says the aim is to bring back opportunities for adventure, exploration, and safely taking healthy risks while playing outside that have been missing from the existing model. Weledeh is in the early stages of building a fenced outdoor classroom area, and will have a fire and cabin for the winter. Part of the outdoor learning will also happen through field trips where possible. Kelly says some existing facilities on the school grounds will also be used for the class, like tents that provide warmth in the winter. Mandee McDonald, a faculty member at the land-based Dechinta Centre for Research and Learning in Yellowknife, says she has not seen many models combining land-based and Western education in the public education system. "The value that I see in land-based programming is specifically from Indigenous knowledge holders being able to teach land-based knowledge, connection to the land, Indigenous worldviews to Indigenous students," she said. "Though I also strongly think that all those lessons around Indigenous worldviews and ways of doing and ways of being are extremely beneficial for all young people to learn." Kelly said that while the school is only starting with junior kindergarten, there are hopes to scale up the program all the way up to high school in due time. "I think in the back of our minds, everyone who's invested in this is thinking next year it's going to be kindergarten, maybe down the road it's going to be Grade 1 and 2," he said. McDonald says she sees promise in exposing the students to ways of knowing the Western curriculum doesn't include. "In my experience, with the public education system, and this is kind of documented in the literature as well, there's a lot of underlying racist assumptions built into Western models of education and the things that we're taught in the school system," she said. She says offering a land-based program can be a way to undermine that. At Weledeh, the plan is for elders to visit the outdoor classroom to share their language and culture with the children. Gaudet expects the kids in her class will learn about Dene law, fire-feeding, drumming and more. "I am very excited to have the community involved at the school, tell their story and share their stories," she said.
CNA
a day ago
- Science
- CNA
Number of preschoolers in Singapore learning with AI programmes jumps 75%
The number of preschoolers taking up AI programmes has jumped by as much as 75 per cent over the past year. This comes as some preschools are adopting twice as many early education apps in classes to help children learn languages easily and spark creativity. Yet, experts warn that exposing kids to AI so early has its issues - in particular, excessive screen time. Muhammad Bahajjaj with more.
The Guardian
2 days ago
- Politics
- The Guardian
‘Is my child safe?': Jason Clare faces a quagmire in childcare crisis — fixing a sector without controlling all the levers
More than 1300 worried parents nationwide joined a webinar on safety in early education this week from families advocacy network The Parenthood, tuning in after weeks of sickening reports of alleged abuse at childcare centres. Georgie Dent, CEO of The Parenthood, said the allegations from Victoria had panicked families countrywide. 'I haven't seen parents' trust in safety rattled in the way it is now,' she told Guardian Australia. 'It's not just parents in Melbourne or Victoria being fearful of early childhood education – many are engaging for the first time, asking 'is my child safe?'' Sign up for Guardian Australia's breaking news email It's the quagmire facing education minister Jason Clare and early childhood minister Jess Walsh as parliament returns on Tuesday for the first time since the election. While this week was meant to be a victory lap for the government – highlighting Labor's thumping 94-seat caucus, capped by giving a parade to their Hecs debt reduction bill – the minister now finds himself facing urgent demands to safeguard a system where he doesn't control all the levers, with critical safety functions shared across eight state and territory systems. Labor has put early education at the centre of its agenda following prime minister Anthony Albanese singling out universal childcare as his 'legacy' during the election campaign – by giving pay rises to educators, offering childcare in its free Tafe program, and widening access to subsidies. But providers say they need more to keep kids safe. One major Australian childcare provider said they needed Canberra to do more on safety training and lead the states into establishing nationally consistent rules on reporting systems and stripping working-with-children accreditation, which can vary by jurisdiction. 'States don't talk to each other,' one executive said. More training, including pupil-free days each year for training – like primary and high schools – has been mooted. 'Quality and safety are inextricably linked. Better qualified and experienced teachers translate to improved risk,' Dent said, calling better training for workers 'the most significant piece' in keeping kids safer. Clare will introduce a bill this fortnight empowering the commonwealth to terminate federal subsidies to childcare operators guilty of egregious safety breaches, ban providers failing minimum standards, boost unannounced spot-checks and issue public notices to underperforming centres. A separate push for a national worker database, tracking movements of staff, will be considered separately at a meeting of education ministers in August. Clare has admitted progress has been too slow; there are questions about why abhorrent childcare abuse uncovered in 2022 didn't already lead to wider system changes. But let's park that for now, and focus on what Clare and Walsh will put forward this fortnight. While the Coalition opposition has pledged to be constructive and are likely to support the government, acknowledging the need for swift action, some Liberals don't believe the government's plan goes to the core of child safety issues. Shadow assistant minister Zoe McKenzie warned it 'may not go far enough' – with many pertinent powers resting with the states, the Coalition will urge Labor to show more 'national leadership' and prod the states into swifter action. The states are moving on their own. Victoria announced its own childcare worker registration system, and will require childcare centres to adopt the federal ban on personal devices or face a $50k fine. Dent said it went beyond parents and families, going to a broader economic imperative; with more families than ever needing two incomes to stay afloat, giving confidence about kids' safety while parents work is critical to keeping food on the table, she said. Sign up to Breaking News Australia Get the most important news as it breaks after newsletter promotion 'This sector has grown out of necessity … but the regulation and oversight has not kept pace. Education access, workforce capacity, it's all under strain,' she said. 'Child safety is not being guaranteed across the board to the extent parents and children expect.' Providers say they're eager to make their centres safer, but with some announcing the roll out of CCTV cameras in early learning and more choices for parents over the care of their children. Some say the money could be better spent, instead suggesting training more educators to ensure children aren't left alone with just one teacher. Concern has also been raised about the misuse of captured footage. Ten months ago, a Productivity Commission report setting out a pathway to universal childcare recommended an independent commission to take a 'comprehensive national view'. The PC noted 'limited transparency and accountability – both from governments and service providers'. Dent and The Parenthood have long called for such a model, as have the largest childcare providers, saying a major national body was critical to tie together safety, training, regulation and monitoring. Clare has said the government has 'an open mind' about such a body to look at safety issues. Other major providers have praised federal pay rises for educators, and free Tafe for educators, as gamechangers – but raised concern about completion rates and the quality of some vocational courses. More must be done to attract good people and keep them in the industry. G8 Education, one of Australia's largest providers, welcomed changes to improve safety – but a spokesperson said 'harmonising policies, regulations, systems and processes' across different levels of government was urgently needed. They also backed a national registry of staff working with vulnerable people as well as a national registration scheme for teachers. Parents want assurance that their kids will be safe, but Australia's cross-jurisdictional system means it's not an easy fix. Clare's job will not be easy. 'We need to be reassuring parents the vast majority of services are good and there for the right reasons, most are really well qualified,' Dent said. 'The challenge is restoring confidence where it's warranted and raising alarm where it's needed.' 'Parents are distressed.'
Khaleej Times
5 days ago
- Health
- Khaleej Times
How trained nannies in UAE become early teachers for children with play-based learning
Several education providers in UAE have launched initiatives aimed at upskilling nannies to help support children during the most critical years of development. This transformation follows a noticeable shift in the perception of nannies, from traditional caregivers to integral early educators, and helps respond to a growing demand for trained domestic caregivers. Parents now actively seek out nannies with qualifications in early childhood education, first aid, or experience in Montessori or EYFS methodologies. Upskilling domestic staff not only enhances early education but also strengthens the bridge between home and school, while elevating the professionalism of domestic care. Evidence-based childcare tools GEMS Education has newly introduced GEMS of Early Childhood programme, designed by early years' specialists at GEMS Wellington Academy. The initiative is tailored to equip families — including nannies—with evidence-based practices and practical tools. The comprehensive course covers a range of subjects such as infant first aid, babies' brain development, and mental health awareness. Participants receive real-life resources like sleep strategies, infant nutrition guides, and communication development aids. Bilingual materials ensure inclusivity for the UAE's diverse population. 'UAE parents increasingly prioritise structured early learning at home, valuing cognitive, emotional, and language development from infancy. There is strong demand for bilingual education (Arabic/English), play-based learning, and alignment with formal curricula like EYFS or Montessori. Technology use is monitored, with many preferring screen-free, hands-on activities,' said Sarah O'Regan, principal/CEO of GEMS Wellington Academy – Silicon Oasis. She emphasised that upskilled nannies bring more to the table. 'They deliver structured, play-based activities that support cognitive and emotional growth, and align well with school-readiness goals. The impact on child development is multifaceted: Cognitive: Faster language and problem-solving development Emotional/social: Improved behaviour, empathy, and self-regulation School readiness: Stronger routines, independence, and early literacy Environment: A safer, more stimulating, and nurturing home setting.' Other experts also agree that empowering nannies through training turns them into active contributors to a child's foundational learning. 'Zero to 6 years is the most important developmental age for a child. Parents today view the home as an extension of the classroom. Trained nannies are no longer just caregivers; they are learning aides who help reinforce foundational skills,' said Dr Vandana Gandhi, CEO and founder of British Orchard Nursery and British Orchard Teacher Training Centre, UAE and UK. She added that structured certifications directly impact care quality. 'At British Orchard Teacher Training Centre (BOC), we offer UK CACHE and KHDA-accredited training at Levels 1, 2, and 3. Even basic certifications in first aid, health, safety, and early years support empower nannies to contribute meaningfully to a child's development at home.' Additionally, Gandhi also flagged the lack of standardisation in the sector. 'Most nannies still operate without formal training. However, this presents a key opportunity — introducing baseline qualifications for home-based caregivers could elevate national childcare standards. As the UAE advances its early years education agenda, certified nannies can play a vital role in safeguarding and supporting learning at home.' Parents praise skilled nannies Some UAE families say their experiences with highly trained nannies have made an enormous difference in both care and learning outcomes. Shreya Chakraborty recalled the support she received during her son's infancy. 'It was a real blessing to have Krishna Veni as my child's first nanny. She joined us when my baby was just 20 days old, and being a trained nurse, she brought a level of care and confidence that I deeply appreciated. After completing her 12th grade, she had pursued an intermediate nursing course and had hands-on experience assisting doctors with deliveries back home in Andhra Pradesh, India." She was incredibly skilled in handling newborns — from giving oil massages and baths to understanding the nuances of feeding, burping, and interpreting a baby's reactions," said Chakraborty. 'What also made her stand out was her education. Since she had completed her schooling, she knew English and could introduce my child to the basics — letters, numbers, and early communication. Having someone with her training and maturity made a world of difference. It showed in the way she cared for my child.' 'Super nanny' Filipino expat Bernadette Lalog spoke warmly of her nanny, Susan Ison. 'My nanny, takes care of my four-year-old twins, and I have to say — she's truly a 'super nanny'. She doesn't just look after them; she teaches them how to trace, colour, and paint. She's become their teacher and coach. Although she studied only up to secondary school, she takes on the responsibility with genuine dedication and sincerity." When I was pregnant and diagnosed with gestational diabetes, Susan went out of her way to research online and carefully plan meals tailored to my dietary needs. She's more than just a cook — she's a culinary curator. She can whip up Filipino dishes that taste like they're from a restaurant and is also an excellent baker," added Lalog. "Susan is incredibly resourceful. She even gives me manicures and pedicures from time to time — skills she taught herself. She's also handy with basic plumbing and can fix things like broken pipes and leaking taps. On top of all this, she can do basic tailoring and alters my children's clothes when needed. People in our community often tell me that the way she cares for my children is truly unmatched. For us, she's more than just a nanny — she's family.'
Khaleej Times
7 days ago
- Business
- Khaleej Times
Blossom Nursery opens new branch in Palm Jumeirah to meet rising demand for early education
Early-years provider Blossom Nursery has added a new centre at Golden Mile Galleria, Palm Jumeirah, citing increased demand for structured childcare from the neighbourhood's growing population of young families. 'Parents have been asking for a high-quality nursery within walking distance,' Lara Bennett, communications manager of Blossom Nursery said. 'Our new site answers that need while delivering the same curriculum standards found across our network.' The Blossom Nursery Palm Jumeirah branch follows the UK-developed Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework, which encourages learning through play, exploration and teacher-guided activities for children aged zero to five. According to the nursery, the programme balances early literacy and numeracy with social and emotional development. Purpose-built classrooms receive natural light and are stocked with open-ended materials such as blocks, puzzles and storybooks. Outdoors, shaded play zones promote movement and environmental awareness. 'Each space is designed to let children choose, experiment and collaborate,' Lara added. All educators hold recognised early-childhood qualifications and complete periodic EYFS refresher courses. Their responsibilities include observing individual learning goals, modelling positive social behaviour and guiding conflict resolution. A parent who toured the facility on opening day said the teacher-child interactions "felt warm yet professional". Golden Mile Galleria's central location allows island residents to avoid cross-city traffic during drop-off. Flexible scheduling options aim to support dual-income households and remote workers based in nearby apartments and villas. Blossom positions the Palm Jumeirah centre as a community hub as well as a school. Plans include parent workshops, weekend story sessions and joint charity drives with local businesses. "We want families to feel this is more than a classroom - it's a meeting point," said Lara. The launch forms part of Blossom Nursery's wider expansion strategy in the UAE, where it operates multiple sites. While the company did not disclose specific enrolment targets, management said interest lists "exceeded expectations" in the weeks leading up to today's opening.
