Schools of Early Learning (SOEL) is proud to announce that we are the recipient of the prestigious Social Justice in Early Education Childhood Anti-Bias Award for 2024. This award is a testament to the dedication of our educators, children and families to fostering equity, inclusion, and social justice in early childhood education.
We share this recognition with three others exceeding early childhood services across Australia, highlighting a nationwide commitment to advancing anti-bias education in early childhood. At SOEL, this award reflects an achievement and a responsibility to continue breaking new ground.
About the Anti-Bias Award
Established in partnership with Early Childhood Australia, Multi-Verse, and Social Justice in Early Childhood, this award is now in its 20th year. It seeks to:
- Recognise educators for embedding anti-bias education into everyday pedagogy rather than treating them as optional or secondary.
- Inspire professionals across the early childhood field to reengage with anti-bias approaches that show diversity, fairness and equality.
Our Anti-Bias Journey
SOEL began its anti-bias journey in 2019, committing to the principles outlined in the National Quality Standards (NQS) and the Early Years Learning Framework (ELYF). These frameworks challenge educators to:
- Think critically about the opportunities presented by diversity
- Take meaningful action to address inequalities and foster fairness in their learning environment (ELYF V2, p.16)
Through reflective practices and courageous conversations, SOEL has woven anti-bias education into our daily routines. This has supported us in meeting and exceeding the quality themes outlined in the NQS, particularly those that call for cultural competence, inclusion, and critical thinking.
A Dedication to Our Community
We dedicate this award to our incredible SOEL educators, children and families. Their courage and commitment to creating inclusive, respectful, and equitable learning environments have been the cornerstone of our success. By embracing anti-bias practices, they have shown what is possible when we work together to build a better world for all children.
As we celebrate this achievement, we also look to the future. Together, we will continue to educate through equity and inclusion, ensuring that anti-bias education practices remain central to our philosophy.
Moving Forward
Winning the Social Justice in Early Childhood Anti-Bias Award is an honour. At SOEL, we are inspired to deepen our engagement with anti-bias education and encourage the broader early childhood community to do the same. By leading with critical thinking and empathy, we can create a foundation for all children to thrive, free from bias and inequality.