Fourteen Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) providers in Western Australia have been granted a share of $758,854 to support projects aimed at improving early learning and development. The funding, which comes from the Supporting Children in Early Childhood Education and Care WA grants program, will benefit more than 2,600 children across the state.
The funding is part of the Preschool Reform Agreement (PRA), a partnership between the Commonwealth and State Governments. It aims to improve language skills and access to quality early learning, particularly for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and those from disadvantaged backgrounds.
The grants are administered by Child Australia and represent the second round of funding under this initiative. In this round, 14 organizations have each received up to $100,000 to support early learning projects and help children transition smoothly into school.
In the first round, more than $1 million was awarded to 16 organizations, benefiting over 5,700 children by enhancing kindergarten programs throughout WA.
This funding boost coincides with Children’s Week 2024, running from October 18-27, a period dedicated to celebrating children’s rights and achievements as declared by the United Nations.
Comments from Key Figures:
Early Childhood Education Minister Sabine Winton emphasized the importance of collaboration between governments to ensure that young children in WA, regardless of background, have access to quality early learning. “I am proud that 14 providers can deliver projects that set children up for success, especially during Children’s Week, which celebrates children’s rights and achievements,” Winton said.
Federal Early Childhood Education Minister Dr. Anne Aly highlighted the critical role of quality early learning. “No matter where children come from, they should access the transformational benefits of quality early childhood education,” she said, underscoring the role of early learning in preparing children for school and life.
Tina Holtom, CEO of Child Australia, also commended the awarded organizations. “We are proud to support these projects, which will benefit over 2,600 children. These initiatives will help children transition to school and ensure they have the resources needed for success,” she stated.
This initiative marks a significant investment in early childhood education, reinforcing the commitment to providing all children in WA with a strong start to their educational journey.
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