Reflections and Progress: Responding to Sector Change and Happenings at NBCA

As I approach my first anniversary as Executive Director at the NBCA, I find myself reflecting on our transformative year in Early Childhood Education and Care.  

Since launching our strategic plan in July, it’s been great to see the transition across teams from the strategic planning phase to what I’ve coined as the “strat-living” phase where we embrace the initiatives from our strategic plan and lean into our purpose, vision and values. This was on full display as we tightened measures across the organisation to ensure we are compliant with new regulations effective 01^st September, and also in the engagement activities taking place at each centre.  

Implementing New Requirements at NBCA: The SUDTOE Policy in Action 

The recent communique from Minister Clare has provided affirmation of the work we are undertaking in our day to day, and strategically. The vision for a high-quality, sustainable Early Childhood Education and Care system aligns closely with our own. 

We have pivoted to operationalise the new Child Safety requirements announced in June through our Safe Use of Digital Technologies and Online Environments (SUDTOE) policy. In collaborating on this, we have reviewed and reflected on all use of technology occurring onsite and are pleased to be working to implement tighter measures to support enhanced safety. Our team has dedicated itself to embedding these changes in a way that is both practical and meaningful. 

Engage Activities

It’s great to see each of our centres “strat-living” in their own ways through quarterly in-person activities for our families to connect with children and educators to promote meaningful community connections.

CLOTHING SWAP

Flynn’s Clothing Drive fostered a spirit of sharing and highlighted the power of community support. We began the week with over 900 donated items, and as the event progressed, we received continued donations, totalling more than 1,500 items. A steady flow of families visited the swap throughout its duration at drop off and pick up, finding items that met their family’s needs. At the conclusion of the event many of the tables were reduced of clothing, with more than half the clothes going home to families and staff for their children.  

At the conclusion of the event: 

• 4 bags were donated to Roundabout 

• 17 bags were distributed to other local charities 

Look out for a Clothing swap at Cooinda later this year.

MITCH TAMBO

We were very excited to welcome Mitch Tambo back to Club Cooi on September 1^st for a concert and a reading of his new book “I Am Me” which was widely enjoyed. These concerts are open to families and are well worth the time to experience music and community on Country.

The Year Ahead: Our Governance & Structure

Over the coming months we will continue to strengthen aspects of our governance to ensure that in addition to best practice education and pedagogical practices, we are also delivering governance best practices. This includes review of our organisational structure (Incorporated Association), and an endorsement to shift into a Company Limited by Guarantee Structure. We look forward to keeping our members and stakeholders well informed across this journey.

You’ll note that Communique’s from our Committee meetings become available on our website. Read our latest one here.

Our next meeting will be on October 13^th and our AGM will follow in late November.

Jocelyn Cronin

Executive Director, North Belconnen Community Association Inc.