The Goodstart program

Goodstart’s early learning program is based on the knowledge that children are natural learners, and that each child develops at their own pace. 

We know the best learning happens when children feel comfortable and safe in their environment and connected to their teachers, educators and each other, which is why we spend the time truly getting to know each child and taking a personal and individual approach to their learning. 

International research tells us that, for every year a child spends in a high-quality early learning program like ours the better their outcomes for school (and life!).

At every age and stage of the learning journey, we will continue to work with you so we can learn more about your child. This helps us create a program that builds on their interests and abilities, and introduces those important early concepts and skills - like language and literacy, maths, STEM and more.

The Early Years Learning Framework

At the heart of Goodstart’s program is 'Belonging, Being and Becoming', the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) for Australia. This is the Australian Government’s national framework for early childhood education, and a key component of the National Quality Framework (NQF) for early childhood education and care which is designed to encourage continuous improvement of education and care services across Australia. 

The EYLF defines the principles, practices and outcomes essential to every early learning program and is designed to ensure all children, from birth to five years of age, receive high quality learning experiences.

The Framework has a strong emphasis on play-based learning and aims to achieve five overall Learning Outcomes:

1. Children have a strong sense of identity.
2. Children are connected with and contribute to their world.
3. Children have a strong sense of wellbeing.
4. Children are confident and involved learners.
5. Children are effective communicators.

You can find more information about the NQF at http://acecqa.gov.au

Download the Early Years Learning Framework Families Guide at education.gov.au 

Our Goodstart Frameworks

As an organisation, we pride ourselves in being led by evidence and research - and it's clear: the first five years of a child’s life are vital in securing their foundational skills and knowledge and preparing them to continue learning into school and beyond. 

To support children in achieving their potential, we've devised our own frameworks with in-house PhD researchers and early childhood experts that go above and beyond, supplementing the EYLF.

Our frameworks:

• Inclusive Teaching, Learning and Support - so we can meet the needs of all children and families
• Birth to 3 Practice Framework - informing our Nursery and Toddler programs
• Three to Five Outcomes Framework - informing out Preschool and Kindergarten programs

support educators in setting high aspirations and expectations for learning and development ensuring all children thrive and transition to school being the best they can be.

Qualifications and training

Goodstart centre staff are offered regular opportunities for professional learning and development. Under the National Quality Framework, all educators are required to hold, or be studying towards, a Certificate III in Children’s Services.

There are also requirements around the number of Diploma and Bachelor Qualified educators and Teachers that are required in a centre as well.

Find out more about choosing early learning and what to expect from a typical day.