Professional Development Program Australia. Primary and Early Childhood Educators Including Walker Learning Parent Support.

Transcription

1 Professional Development Program Australia Primary and Early Childhood Educators Including Parent Support Page 1

2 Welcome to our Professional Development Program for 2016 Early Life Foundations provides professional support across Australia for a wide range of and parents including: > Primary school > All areas of children s services: > Pre-school > Kindergarten > Family day care > Out of school hours care > Child care > Local government children s services > maternal and child health services > Parents. We are very pleased to include parent information and support as part of the services we provide. We encourage to access the parent section of the brochure (page 34) and to share these details with their parent community. We offer three major types of professional development and support for and parents: 1. Customised sessions 2. Scheduled sessions 3. online training modules. Customised sessions and mentoring means we come to you or you can come to us to present on any of the scheduled topics, or any other topics your school, centre or parent group may require our team of staff to support you in. Scheduled sessions are pre-set sessions with dates and topics, as listed in the brochure. Most are held at our main training rooms and Demonstration Unit in bayside Melbourne. We also have scheduled sessions in 2016 in a number of states and territories. Online training modules provide easy access online for information and support on a range of topics for across primary and early childhood education as well as support for parents. We look forward to meeting and working with you at some of our professional development sessions in Kathy, Shona and the Early Life Foundations team Page 2

3 Early Life Foundations The philosophy of Early Life Foundations: Ensures that opportunities for the development of the whole child are authentic, relevant and meaningful for all children regardless of their age, culture, family context, socioeconomic background or geographical location. Early Life Foundations Centre Level 1, Sunmore Close, Moorabbin PO Box 364, Elwood, Vic., Australia 3184 Phone: (03) or A.B.N Embraces and prioritises the importance of attachment and relationships with children. Is based on educating the whole child; education of the whole child requires understanding of child development, developmental psychology and neuroscience while acknowledging and respecting that culture, community and family have a significant impact on a child s life and learning. It places an emphasis on the social and emotional aspects of a child s life as well as the academic aspects. Emphasises personalised learning, explicit instruction, and skills in literacy and numeracy; promotes creativity and self-expression; and embeds self-awareness, self-management and self-regulation in children s learning. Page 3

4 INFORMATION AND BOOKING What you need to know and how to use this brochure The Customised sessions Scheduled sessions Online training modules following pages provide information about each category of service. Details regarding bookings and costs for all services are on page xx. CUSTOMISED PROFESSIONAL LEARNING We provide customised sessions in the following categories: 1. Professional development sessions and mentoring 2. Early Life Foundations Demonstration Unit guided tour 3. Parent information sessions and workshops. The following sections provide details of each of these categories: 1. Professional development sessions and mentoring Customised sessions are where you choose a topic/area of support from our list, or a topic customised to suit your community s needs. Customised sessions are conducted at either your venue or the Early Life Foundations Centre. These sessions are for and for parents. Customised professional development sessions can be tailored to suit your organisation s needs and are held on weekdays, weeknights and weekends. Please contact ELF to book a customised session. Sessions can be held at the Early Life Foundations Centre in Melbourne, at your early childhood education centre or school, or at a local community venue anywhere in Australia. Please contact the ELF Centre to discuss your specific needs: or (03) Customised sessions include, but are not limited to: > Mentoring for early childhood and leaders > Mentoring for school principals and leaders > School playground assessments > Parent information sessions > Mentoring for early childhood education philosophy > Mentoring and preparation for early childhood National Quality Framework assessment > outdoor assessments > Bush Kinder establishment > Personalised learning > Play-based and project-based learning > School readiness assessment > Team collaboration > Leadership styles and mentoring > Mentoring on teaching and learning > Mentoring on (personalised learning) > Any topics we offer as scheduled, or other topics within our range of expertise that your community requires. Page 4

5 INFORMATION AND BOOKING 2. Early Life Foundations Demonstration Unit guided tour The Early Life Foundations Demonstration Unit is set up as an early childhood/early years learning environment. It can be visited by anyone working with young children to gain firsthand experience of how to establish and provide specific play-based learning provocations, materials and resources for young children. The Demonstration Unit is located at the Early Life Foundations Centre in Melbourne. Customised sessions for your school, centre or team to observe and unpack the key elements of the Demonstration Unit with an Early Life Foundations consultant can be booked. Please contact us for more details: or phone (03) Parent information sessions and workshops We are delighted to offer sessions and workshops on behaviour, school readiness, school preparation and transition, resilience, the importance of play and what an early childhood program should look like. Customised parent sessions and workshops can be held at the Early Life Foundations Centre in Melbourne, at your school or early childhood centre, or at a local community venue anywhere in Australia. Further details related to parent sessions and workshops are presented later in the brochure (page xx). Please contact the ELF Centre to discuss your specific needs: or phone (03) SCHEDULED PROFESSIONAL LEARNING Scheduled sessions are for any individual or groups who would like to enrol for sessions scheduled by ELF and advertised in this brochure. These are preset sessions with dates and topics as listed in the brochure. The majority of scheduled sessions are held at the main ELF training rooms and Demonstration Unit in bayside Melbourne. In 2016, we will also be offering a variety of scheduled sessions in a number of states and territories. Scheduled sessions are available to all and parents. We have also designed and targeted sessions for the unique needs and interests of specific groups, including: Early childhood : Babies to preschool. Walker : Primary and early childhood using personalised learning through. General scheduled sessions: for all across primary school and early childhood. Early Life Foundations and Zart art: Joint professional development sessions focusing on a range of art and teaching elements for early childhood and primary. Interstate scheduled sessions: A number of preset dates for a range of professional development sessions in states and territories. Details (dates, times, title and descriptor) of each professional learning opportunity in each category are located later in this brochure (page xx). In addition, the 2016 calendar for all scheduled sessions shows at a glance the range of opportunities offered during the year for all categories. Page 5

6 INFORMATION AND BOOKING ONLINE MODULES AND RESOURCES Early Life Foundations can deliver professional learning and parent information and support across Australia and internationally. In addition, Early Life Foundations offers a range of resources accessible to all and parents wherever they may be across the world. These resources include: books, DVDs, podcasts and fact sheets. In addition from 2016 Early Life Foundations will be offering online modules providing education and support for parents and early childhood and primary. More information about online modules and resources Online modules, page 38 or visit: Resources, page 37 or visit: BOOKING PROCESS AND COSTS CUSTOMISED SESSIONS COSTS Customised Professional Please send your expression of interest via or contact the ELF office for a quote and to discuss your specific needs by phoning (03) COSTS Guided Tour of Demonstration Unit $50 per person for a group of 5 participants $250 per group of 6 or more participants To book, please contact the ELF Centre to arrange a time for the guided tour. PARENT SESSIONS Parent Consultations School Readiness Assessment $120 + GST Initial one-hour consultation $100 + GST Subsequent one-hour consultation $500 + GST ($50 rebate if subsequent to a parent consultation) Choice of School Consultation $120 + GST Initial one-hour consultation $100 + GST Subsequent one-hour consultation Advocacy and Parent Support Parent and Community Presentations Parent Workshop Series Proactive Parenting Please contact the ELF Centre for further information and quotes Page 6

7 INFORMATION AND BOOKING SCHEDULED SESSIONS COSTS Scheduled Professional Scheduled Sessions Whole day $280 + GST Half-day $175 + GST Study Tours Two-day Study Tour $500 + GST One-day Study Tour $300 + GST All full-day sessions include morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea. VENUE Melbourne-based Sessions The Early Life Foundations Centre, Level 1, Sunmore Close, Moorabbin VIC Phone: (03) All-day parking is available; for details see Interstate-based Sessions Venue information is provided for each session. BOOKINGS QUERIES ELF CENTRE: (03) CANCELLATION POLICY A minimum of 5 working days notice prior to the session date is required to cancel or reschedule a registration: credits can be used for (i) another person to attend the session or (ii) another session in the same calendar year. On occasion, details of sessions may change please confirm all details listed on the online booking form. Full costs will be incurred for cancellations less than 5 working days prior to the session date. ONLINE MODULES We provide a variety of online modules that range in length, number of sessions and content. Prices range between $10 and $100. Please refer to page xx for details of modules due for release in 2016 and to the ELF website for further details: RESOURCES A variety of resources can be purchased on the ELF online shop ( and include the following: BOOKS by Kathy Walker Future Proofing Your Child $35 Parenting $35 Ready, Set, Go? $25 What s the Hurry? $40 DVDs Parenting Tips $20 Creating an Engaging and Intentional Environment $30 Play Matters: Practical classroom demonstration $35 PODCASTS 5 x podcasts different titles $5 each FRIDGE MAGNETS 4 x magnets different titles $2.50 each $8.00 set of 4 Page 7

8 Early Childhood Education Scheduled Professional Development Sessions 2016 Page 8

9 2016 Scheduled Professional Development Sessions EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATORS Early Childhood Education Want Your Life Back: Effective Planning and Documentation (most popular) 18 March 17 June 26 August 9 November 9:30am 3:30pm This is ELF s most popular and in-demand session across Australia. This session focuses on documentation and planning that doesn t take away your weekend or interrupt your interactions with children! It considers: how did arrive at a point where they are so busy taking photos and writing up stories and descriptions of children s learning that it actually takes them away from their interactions, scaffolding and time with children? This session presents a realistic and practical range of strategies to document and record information. It provides templates for ideas for documentation that link to the National Quality Framework and more realistic ways to share experiences with parents and children that save time, ink, photos and writing. All Behaviour Has Meaning: Understanding and Responding to Children s Behaviour 29 February 13 May 9 August This session supports in understanding why children behave the way they do. It provides strategies to assist to help and nurture children to respond and move through the range of behaviours that can arise. Study Tour Early Childhood Education () (NEW one-day session) 4 March 3 June 18 August 2 September 7.30am 4.00pm This one-day study tour is one of ELF s most popular professional learning sessions. It takes you to two early childhood centres to observe and gain ideas on learning environments, focus children and how to gain new strategies and understand more about in early childhood. We return to the Early Life Foundations Centre and Demonstration Unit for more ideas and lunch, followed by further professional learning on setting up intentional play spaces for rich learning and an overview of in early childhood. Bush Kindergarten Authentic Session in Bush Kinder Practice and Theory (back by popular demand) 21 April 29 July 21 October 8.30am 3.30pm Join us for a full day of learning out in the real world. We visit a Kindergarten in the morning for the bush program and then head back to the Early Life Foundations Centre to unpack all the practical and theoretical considerations from the day s visit. A great day out! Neuroscience: Understanding the Brain to Understand the Child, Behaviours & Practice 16 May 25 August 11 November This session focuses on using scientific evidence about the brain to guide practice. The exciting world of science, brain research and the evidence that exists around what contributes to personality, thinking, development, behaviour, importance of play, relationships, attachment and key important factors in learning are often not known, taught or considered enough in the field of education. This practical session presents key aspects about the child s brain and the direct implications these have for teaching and learning. This session provides an exciting, refreshing and reassuring way of using the scientific evidence to guide practice and decision making. Building Literacy and Numeracy with Play-based Curriculum (NEW) 18 May 24 October This session provides a range of practical examples on how to embed rich literacy and numeracy provocations in open-ended provocations in early childhood education. A review of the ELF Demonstration Unit, an extensive range of photos of play spaces and planning documents support this content. It is a must for all early childhood. Page 9

10 2016 Scheduled Professional Development Sessions EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATORS Intentional Teaching in Play-based Curriculum 3 March 27 May 24 August 9:30am 3:30pm In, we do not plan or set up children s interests for the sake of the children s interests. This session focuses on educating and intentional teaching. We have expertise and a body of knowledge about children and how children learn through play. We don t start planning from children s interests we plan with intention from a starting point of expertise about early childhood development and then utilise children s unique contexts, culture and interests as a means to teaching and learning. This session provides examples of how to program with intention through play-based curriculum and also include children s interests. Mindfulness in Working with Children: It s All About Relationships and Interaction 28 July 12 October This session takes a new and refreshing look at building, supporting and maintaining our relationships with children and families as we work as early childhood professionals. This session uses the science of mindfulness theories to deepen our work with children as we scaffold, extend, guide and lead their learning, skills, emotions, behaviours and interactions. It empowers us to get back to what we know children need most not cameras, but relationships! Setting Up Intentional and Inviting Play Spaces 2 August 25 November This session links intentional planning and documentation and provides lots of practical ideas on how to add a broader and richer range of materials, resources and provocations to play spaces. A review of the ELF Demonstration Unit and an extensive range of photos of play spaces support this content. Introduction to Play-based Through WALKER LEARNING (NEW) 11 March 22 June 19 July The Approach is a play-based approach to teaching and learning that has been implemented across Australia and internationally in early childhood education and the early years of school. It provides systems for using play, intentional teaching and child development as its basis and associated documentation in keeping with all national frameworks. The session provides an overview of how to implement WLA in an early childhood program in preschools and child care centres. Motivating Staff and Building Professionalism (NEW) 18 February 5 September Building a Philosophy That Drives Practice (NEW) 9 March 22 July Embracing and Setting Up Outdoor (NEW) This session provides practical strategies on how to build a strong, united professional team. It explores ways to eradicate some of the challenges of personality clashes, leadership struggles and staff dynamics, and how to build stronger, more cohesive and professional teams working together for children with high-quality interactions. So often an early childhood philosophy statement is really a great set of values rather than an effective tool and statement that drives consistent practices across the entire early childhood centre. This session provides practical assistance on how to construct a philosophy that drives practice and ensures consistency of practice in early childhood. 11 May 15 September This session provides practical ideas for rich provocations specifically for outdoor learning spaces in early childhood centres. With the use of photos and demonstrations, the session provides a rich range of examples of how to add and use everyday materials within a realistic budget to assist children in their learning, engagement and exploration outdoors. Page 10

11 Early Childhood Education Conflict Resolution and Building Effective Teams (NEW) 23 June 14 November 9:30am 3:30pm This session addresses the very real challenges often faced within early childhood settings when the demands of a fast-paced workplace reduce the time and opportunity for staff and teams to work and communicate as effectively as they may desire. The session provides practical strategies on communication, assertion, conflict resolution and building effective relationships within teams. Women in Leadership (a great opportunity for any educator in a leadership role) 21 March 16 June In early childhood and primary education, 95% of are women. We provide leadership sessions and leadership mentoring for women in early childhood and primary education. This session provides the knowledge and skills associated with successful leadership. The session will provide a mix of theory and workshops so that participants can practise and reflect on proactive strategies related to their situation. In addition, there is the option to continue with personalised leadership mentoring; contact ELF for details on this personalised service. Teaching with Emotional Intelligence 4 May Emotional intelligence (EI) theory reminds us that the more we know ourselves, the more we can understand others. This one-day session provides an introduction to EI and practical strategies on how to use EI in teaching with children across early childhood and primary F-6. Outdoor Play as an Extension for and Life (including Play Pods and Sheds) 10 March 28 April 31 August The World Health Organization has noted that Australian children spend relatively little time outside in recreation. This session provides practical examples and photographs of strategies for schools and early childhood centres on how to use loose part materials, open-ended resources and budget-friendly ideas to provide rich and imaginative play for children at lunch and recess that reduces misbehaviour, accidents and gives children exercise and skills for life. Early Childhood Art Experiences (NEW) 18 November This session provides practical ideas for early childhood in a range of art play-based areas. It provides new and innovative ideas on how to use art experiences with young children to engage, extend, scaffold and promote new skills, thinking, creativity and enrich your play-based program. It is a practical hands-on session. Emotional Intelligence Workshop (two days) 11 and 12 August This intensive two-day seminar is led by two of Australia s top leading and consultants, Kathy Walker and Shona Bass. Both Kathy and Shona have academic and research backgrounds and have worked extensively in a range of areas including effective communication, relationships, group dynamics, leadership, teamwork and emotional intelligence (EI). Relationships in the workplace, the home, the community and broader society are the key to effective productivity and mental and psychological well-being. This workshop includes: an overview of the key elements of EI, using EI in the workplace, effective communication skills, assertion, empathy, workshops for skills in EI, strategies for working with families, children and colleagues, and modelling EI to others. Page 11

12 DEVELOPMENTALLY & CULTURALLY APPROPRIATE PRACTICE Scheduled Professional Development Sessions 2016 Page 12

13 2016 Scheduled Professional Development Sessions Early Childhood to Year 8 Walker was developed and designed by Kathy Walker and Shona Bass to engage children from early childhood to Year 8 in authentic and meaningful ways so they can enjoy their learning wherever they live across Australia. It draws upon evidence from neuroscience and human development and reflects and respects the uniqueness of culture, family and relationships. It uses play-based and personalised learning theories as its basis and retains explicit instruction of literacy and numeracy. The Approach is specifically designed to reflect the richness and diversity of Australian cultures from inner-urban areas of cities through to remote and regional areas including Indigenous communities and cultures. Theories of play are used by many great philosophies from across the world and the Approach draws from many excellent evidence-based play theories. Walker is a personalised pedagogy designed in Australia and is implemented across Australia and internationally. EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATORS Childcare/Preschool/Kindergarten (Birth to the year before school) Introduction to Play-based Through WALKER LEARNING (NEW) 11 March 22 June 19 July This session is an introductory presentation of the key elements of Walker (WL) in early childhood education. It includes information on the research and philosophy of WL; how to set up the learning environment; and links to language and early literacy and numeracy. In WL, we call children s play their investigations and discuss ways to provide rich provocations and scaffolding with intentional teaching. The session also discusses how WL links to the national Early Years Framework, and how to plan and document to save time and provide consistency across all staff working in the one centre. When conducted in Melbourne, this session also includes the opportunity to observe the Early Life Foundations Demonstration Unit of play-based learning areas to gain practical ideas about learning centres, resources and materials. Full- or halfday customised WL introductory overview presentations for individual centres can also be arranged by request. STUDY TOUR Early Childhood Education () (NEW) (one day) 4 March 3 June 18 August 2 September 7.30am 4.00pm This one-day study tour is one of ELF s most popular professional learning sessions. It takes you to two early childhood centres to observe and gain ideas about learning environments and focus children, and to gain new strategies and understand more about in early childhood. We return to the ELF Centre and Demonstration Unit for more ideas and lunch, followed by further professional learning on setting up intentional play spaces for rich learning and an overview of in early childhood education. Early Childhood to Year 6 Leading Teacher/Educator/Principal Support Sessions 12 May 20 October 1.30pm 4.00pm This series of sessions is specifically designed for and leaders supporting and leading the implementation of in their school, team or level. These sessions provide participants with the skills and knowledge on how to promote continuity of teaching and learning strategies between mentor visits and how to provide a consistent message across the school/team to ensure sustained, rigorous, explicit teaching and learning through the use of WL key elements. These sessions include additional theory, research and ideas to support and leaders. Page 13

14 PRIMARY EDUCATORS AND LEADERS (Foundation to Year 2) F-2 Introductory Overview 2 March 25 May 10 August 10 November This session is an introductory presentation of the key elements of pedagogy in the early years, including: the research behind and philosophy of Walker, setting up the environment, linking literacy and numeracy, Investigation session, linking to frameworks, planning and documentation, and implementation strategies for teams and schools. When conducted in Melbourne, this session also includes the opportunity to observe the ELF Demonstration Unit of play-based learning areas to gain practical ideas about learning centres, resources and materials. Full- or half-day customised WL introductory overview presentations for individual schools and centres can also be arranged by request. F-2 Explicit Teaching and (a week in the life of a school) (NEW) 2 May 19 October This session highlights the reality of how explicit teaching of curriculum areas, particularly in literacy and numeracy, are still taught through instruction each week. This session works through practical strategies and examples about how the teaching and learning of all aspects of curriculum occurs within the context of pedagogy. This session is a must for and leaders wishing to gain a full understanding of how fits with the curriculum. F-2 Ensuring Literacy and Numeracy is Still Taught Explicitly and Linked to Investigations (NEW) 20 April 13 October This session focuses on the variety of ways literacy and numeracy can be strengthened and deepened during Investigations and linked to formal literacy and numeracy sessions. This session examines how literacy and numeracy links are made through planning and documentation, and how explicit instruction continues during formal teaching throughout the day. When conducted in Melbourne, this session also includes the opportunity to observe the ELF Demonstration Unit of play-based learning areas to gain practical ideas and examples about how to link literacy and numeracy provocations in learning centres. F-2 Unpacking Developmental Domains and Writing Developmentally Appropriate Intentions 18 April 8 September This session provides an overview of child development and developmental domains. We build on this knowledge to develop the process of writing developmentally appropriate intentions and to assist in the planning process of the Statement of Intent. F-2 Planning Documentation Assessment and Reporting 17 March 20 June 12 September This session focuses on the range of documentation that enhances and streamlines planning, observations, assessment and reporting, including: planning templates (Statement of Intent), daily/weekly record sheets, individual observation records, portfolios and journals. This session focuses on the variety of ways curriculum areas can be strengthened and deepened during Investigations and formal teaching. Page 14

15 Walker F-2 Enriching the Environment for Investigations and Scaffolding 29 April This session focuses on how to set up an engaging environment that includes intentional provocations that link open-ended learning centres to formal teaching throughout the day. It provides practical ideas for enriching and using the environment and resources to help scaffold and extend learning. This session includes the use of example video footage and photos of outdoor learning centres, open-plan environments and traditional small classrooms from across Australia. When conducted in Melbourne, this session also includes the opportunity to observe the ELF Demonstration Unit of play-based learning areas to gain practical ideas about learning centres, resources and materials. This session also discusses the role of the educator during the Investigations sessions and for the remainder of the day. Introducing into the Art Room 20 July Extend play-based learning into the art room by creating learning environments that will extend formal skill building in a range of experiences. In this session, collage, painting, printing and construction learning centres are modelled and expanded upon with a focus on the options available to create engaging areas of learning with intentional provocations. F-6 and the Australian Curriculum: How It All Fits and Meets Outcomes (NEW) 19 February 27 July This session provides answers in practical terms to how all curriculum expectations and outcomes (content and skills) are covered through Walker. This full-day session provides opportunities to work through how literacy, numeracy, science and all curriculum areas are addressed, how they are personalised, assessed and reported, and how children are engaged throughout the process. Planning processes and templates are provided to assist through this process. Suitable for all year levels F-6. STUDY TOUR Primary (F-2) (two days) February 5 6 May 4 5 August October 7.30am 4.00pm This two-day study tour visits schools using across years F-2 and provides opportunities for to observe the key elements of tuning in, reflection, the learning environment, focus children, and reporter and photographer, and to meet and discuss these elements with and leaders. It is followed each day by professional learning at the ELF Melbourne office and the opportunity to view the ELF Demonstration Unit. REGIONAL STUDY TOUR Primary (F-6) (one day) BENDIGO 22 August 8.30am 4.00pm This one-day regional study tour is conducted at St Liborius Catholic Primary School (Eaglehawk, Bendigo) that is using across Years F-6. The study tour provides opportunities for to observe the key elements of tuning in, reflection, the learning environment, focus children, reporter and photographer, communication boards in action, class meetings and aspects of education research projects. There are also opportunities to discuss aspects of with and leaders at the school. These are all demonstrated on the day, followed by further professional learning in the afternoon. Page 15

16 PRIMARY EDUCATORS AND LEADERS (Year 3 to Year 8) STUDY TOUR Primary (P-6) in Victoria (for interstate in their school holidays who cannot travel to Victoria during their school term) (two days) July 7.30am 4.00pm This two-day study tour provides an additional opportunity for interstate to travel to Melbourne and attend a study tour without having to find replacement, as it is held in the July break when some states and territories have their mid-term break but when Victorian schools are still operating. It is an ideal chance to see in action across all year levels. Early Childhood to Year 6 Leading Teacher/Educator/Principal Support Sessions 12 May 20 October 1.30pm 4.00pm This series of sessions is specifically designed for and leaders who are supporting and leading the implementation of in their school, team or level. These sessions provide participants with the skills and knowledge about how to promote continuity of teaching and learning strategies between mentor visits, and how to provide a consistent message across the school/team to ensure sustained, rigorous, explicit teaching and learning through the use of key elements. This session includes additional theory, research and ideas to support and leaders. Fast Track Day (F-2) 24 November 9.00am 12.30pm This full-day session provides the opportunity for who are either commencing at a school in the following year or moving into a different year level with to gain an understanding of the key elements before the new teaching year commences. Resources, fact sheets, online modules and ELF texts are also discussed and available to support the transition into Walker. Years 3-8 Introductory Overview 17 February 8 August This session is an introductory presentation of the key elements of Walker pedagogy in the middle/upper primary years, including: the research behind and philosophy of WL, setting up the learning environment, planning and documentation, linking to curriculum areas and framework outcomes, class meetings, clinic groups, communication boards, education research projects and implementation strategies for teams and schools. This session also includes example video footage and photos of key elements of the pedagogy in Years 3-8 from classrooms across Australia. Full- or half-day customised WL introductory overview presentations for individual schools and centres can also be arranged by request. Years 3-8 Education Research Projects 15 April This session focuses on understanding and implementing education research projects (ERPs). This session provides in-depth and practical ideas about ERPs and how to balance the immersion of key skills, intentions and content with personalised student interests. This session unpacks how to set learning intentions with a subject focus and how to link with and assess Framework outcomes. This session also includes the use of example video footage of ERPs and proposal forms from students in Years 3-8 across Australia. Page 16

17 Walker Year 3-8 Planning Assessment and Reporting 26 May This session focuses on the range of documentation, planning processes and reporting documents and ideas that uses. It includes ideas for self-assessment by students, peer assessment, rubrics and other strategies for planning with education research projects (ERPs) and other curriculum areas. STUDY TOUR (Years 3-6) (one day) 24 February 23 March 17 August 17 October 7.30am 4.00pm This one-day tour takes to a school where students and model some of the key aspects of across Years 3-8. Focus students, tuning in, communication boards in action, class meetings and aspects of education research projects are all demonstrated on this day, followed by further professional learning in the afternoon at the ELF Centre. REGIONAL STUDY TOUR Primary (F-6) (one day) BENDIGO 22 August 8.30am 4.00pm This one-day regional study tour is conducted at St Liborius Catholic Primary School (Eaglehawk, Bendigo) that is using across Years F-6. The study tour provides opportunities for to observe the key elements of tuning in, reflection, the learning environment, focus children, reporter and photographer, communication boards in action, class meetings and aspects of education research projects. There are also opportunities to discuss aspects of with and leaders at the school. These are all demonstrated on the day, followed by further professional learning in the afternoon. STUDY TOUR Primary (P-6) in Victoria (for interstate in their school holidays who cannot travel to Victoria during their school term) (two days) July 7.30am 4.00pm This two-day study tour provides an additional opportunity for interstate to travel to Melbourne and attend the ELF study tour without having to find replacement, as it is held in the July break when some states and territories have their mid-term break but Victorian schools are still operating. It is an ideal chance to see across all year levels in action. Early Childhood to Year 6 Leading Teacher/Educator/Principal Support Sessions 12 May 20 October 1.30pm 4.00pm This series of sessions is specifically designed for and leaders supporting and leading the implementation of in their school, team or level. These sessions provide participants with skills and knowledge about how to promote continuity of teaching and learning strategies between mentor visits, and how to provide a consistent message across the school/team to ensure sustained, rigorous, explicit teaching and learning through the use of key elements. This session includes additional theory, research and ideas to support and leaders. Fast Track Day (Years 3-8) 24 November 1.30pm 4.00pm This full-day session provides the opportunity for, who are either commencing at the school in the following year or moving into a different year level with, to gain an understanding of the key elements before the new teaching year commences. Resources, fact sheets, online modules and ELF texts are also discussed and available to support the transition into Walker. Page 17

18 General Professional Development Scheduled Professional Development Sessions 2016 Page 18

19 General Professional Development All Educators Early Childhood and Primary Educators General Professional Development Understanding and Reducing Bullying in the Classroom and Playground 25 July 26 October This session provides a range of proactive strategies and practical ideas based on addressing the needs of children who cause harm to themselves and others, and how to use strategies to encourage positive reinforcement and enhance engagement of children who are disengaged and challenging. Understanding and Working with Children s Behaviour 6 June 15 November This session highlights the importance of developing intrinsic motivation in children. The session introduces a range of strategies to help embed intrinsic (in preference to extrinsic) motivation and self-regulation in the learning environment, across the school or centre and at home. Come along for new ideas to help children change their behaviours and take responsibility for their decisions and choices. Learn about how consequences and other strategies provide an alternative to traditional methods such as sticker stars! Social and Emotional (NEW) 14 April 18 October This session provides an overview on how to use social and emotional learning (SEL) with and students across an education community. It considers the competencies of self-awareness, self-management, responsible decision making and relationship skills, and draws upon emotional intelligence theory, personality theory and practical strategies to assist. Making Visible 1 March 8 November We want all children to understand that through their experiences and investigations, and through the activities we provide, that they are learning, developing and acquiring skills. This session highlights how has been making learning intentions and skills visible to students and parents for over 20 years. The session provides practical examples of how, through planning documents and processes, and tuning in and reflection with students each morning, the learning is made visible and explicit and is owned by the students. Neuroscience: Understanding the Brain to Understand the Child, Behaviours and Practice 16 May 25 August 11 November This session focuses on using scientific evidence about the brain to guide practice. The exciting world of brain research and the scientific evidence regarding what contributes to personality, thinking, development, behaviour, importance of play, relationships, attachment and key important factors in learning are often not known, taught or considered enough in education. This practical session presents key aspects of understanding the child s brain and the direct implications of this for teaching and learning. This session provides an exciting, refreshing and reassuring way of using scientific evidence to guide practice and decision making. It is suitable for all from early childhood to Year 2. Page 19

20 General Professional Development All Educators Primary and Early Childhood Educators Engaging Environments for Thinking and 23 February It is not the child s responsibility to become engaged; rather, it is the educator s role to engage the child. This session presents a range of practical and photographic ideas about how to set up learning environments across early childhood and Foundation to Year 6 that provide rich provocations for engagement, thinking, investigating and research skills in children. Women In Leadership (a great opportunity for any educator in a leadership role) 21 March 16 June In early childhood and primary education, 95% of are women. We provide leadership sessions and leadership mentoring for women in early childhood and primary education. This session provides the knowledge and skills associated with successful leadership. The session will provide a mix of theory and workshops so that participants can practise and reflect on proactive strategies related to their situation. In addition, there is the option to continue with personalised leadership mentoring; contact ELF for details on this personalised service. Teaching with Emotional Intelligence 4 May Emotional intelligence (EI) theory reminds us that the more we know ourselves, the more we can understand others. This one-day session provides an introduction to EI and practical strategies on how to use EI in our teaching with children across early childhood and primary F-6. Building Relationships Between Educator and Child 16 September Relationships are everything in the educator student world. Deepening relationships and strengthening attachments between student and educator is the foundation for encouraging motivation, increasing pro-social behaviours, building trust, encouraging risk taking, and modelling future relationships. This session provides ideas on how to build positive relationships with students. Page 20

21 General Professional Development All Educators Early Childhood and Primary Educators General Professional Development Outdoor Play as an Extension for and Life (including Play Pods and Sheds) 10 March 28 April 31 August The World Health Organization has noted that Australian children spend relatively little time outside in recreation. This session provides practical examples and photographs of strategies for schools and early childhood centres on how to use loose part materials, open-ended resources and budget-friendly ideas to provide rich and imaginative play for children at lunch and recess that reduces misbehaviour and accidents, and gives children exercise and skills for life. Emotional Intelligence Workshop (two days) August This intensive two-day seminar is led by two of Australia s top leading and consultants, Kathy Walker and Shona Bass. Both Kathy and Shona have academic and research backgrounds and have worked extensively in a range of areas including effective communication, relationships, group dynamics, leadership, teamwork and emotional intelligence (EI). Relationships in the workplace, the home, the community and broader society are the key to effective productivity and mental and psychological well-being. This workshop includes: an overview of the key elements of EI, using EI in the workplace, effective communication skills, assertion, empathy, workshops for skills in EI, strategies for working with families, children and colleagues, and modelling EI to others. Communication and Relationships: Developing Your Interpersonal Skills in the Workplace, Teamwork and Conflict 1 June This session is based around communication and relationships in the workplace; it provides practical strategies for identifying your own personality and how your personality impacts upon dynamics with others. In addition, a range of strategies are introduced that assist in assertion, building teamwork and dealing proactively with conflict. This session focuses on skills including self-awareness, self-management, your persona, your way of presenting in the first instance, and ways to fine-tune how you make the first impression. Mindfulness in Working with Children: It s All About Relationships and Interaction 28 July 12 October This session takes a new and refreshing look at building, supporting and maintaining the educator s relationships with children and families. This session uses the science of mindfulness theories to deepen your work with children as you scaffold, extend, guide and lead their learning, skills, emotions, behaviours and interactions. Page 21

22 Art Experiences for Educators Scheduled Professional Development Sessions 2016 Page 22

23 Art experiences for all Primary and Early Childhood Educators Art Experiences for Educators Bringing Art Experiences into the Environment 22 April Venue Zart This practical workshop explores a range of open-ended art experiences for engaging young children. This session models a range of rich provocations and uses materials aimed at provoking thinking, imagination, creativity, skill development, language and other areas of learning and development. It will equip with the knowledge and confidence to present materials that will extend and enrich children in their learning. It is a day filled with hands-on experiences backed up with the theory on how children learn through these experiences. Sensory and Tactile Experiences in Play-based 9 June Venue ELF This practical session provides a range of ideas on how to increase and maximise provocations and experiences for children in the area of sensory learning. This area of play-based learning is extremely important for children in relation to their therapeutic, psychological, cognitive and creative skillbuilding experiences. Expand upon your open-ended play-based experiences with invitations that will engage young learners through their senses. Introducing into the Art Room 20 July Venue Zart Extend play-based learning into the art room by creating learning environments that will extend children s formal skill building in a range of experiences. In this session, collage, painting, printing and construction learning centres will be modelled and expanded on, with a focus on the options available to create engaging areas of learning with intentional provocations. Outdoor Environments with Zart at the Botanical Gardens 15 March 9 Sep Venue Botanical Gardens This session uses a range of art and natural materials to bring richness of exploration and investigation to the outdoor experience. It s not possible for everyone to access the bush or construct natural wonderlands. However, through the use of art materials, natural materials and found objects, the outdoor space can be a rich learning experience for young children. A walk around Melbourne Botanical Gardens will not only enliven your senses, but will offer rich inspiration for outdoor learning opportunities. **This session is conducted at the Melbourne Botanical Gardens. Early Childhood Art Experiences (NEW) 18 Nov Venue ELF This session provides practical ideas for early childhood in a range of art play-based areas. The session provides innovative ideas on how to use art experiences with young children to engage, extend, scaffold and promote new skills, thinking, creativity and enrich the play-based program. It is a practical, hands-on session! BOOKINGS for ELF & Zart When sessions are conducted at: 1. ELF: book through Early Life Foundations: online at ( ) 2. Zart and the Botanical Gardens: book through Zart by phoning (03) or zes@zartart.com.au Page 23

24 Interstate Professional Development ECE & Primary Educators Scheduled Professional Development Sessions 2016 Page 24

25 Interstate Professional Development and Study Tours Early Childhood and Primary Educators Interstate Professional Development Check the ELF website and ELF Facebook each month for new interstate dates throughout the year as they are scheduled. You can also request a special study tour or professional development in your own community. FOR ALL INTERSTATE BOOKINGS, PLEASE BOOK THROUGH EARLY LIFE FOUNDATIONS: online bookings FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT THE ELF CENTRE ON : (03) or via ACT 20 May 9.30am 4.00pm Introduction and Extension Session Early Childhood Educators Year 2 Theodore Primary School Canberra This session provides the opportunity for early childhood to Year 2 to gain an introduction to personalised and play-based learning or to extend their knowledge and skills in. Making learning visible, balancing explicit teaching with play-based learning and how this links to planning and the Early Years Framework and the Australian Curriculum will be presented. Videos and photos of learning environments and tuning in and reflecting will also be shown. 8 August 9.30am 4.00pm Want Your Life Back and Intentional Teaching and Early Childhood Educators Theodore Primary School Canberra This is our most popular and in-demand session across Australia. This session focuses on documentation and planning that doesn t take away your weekend or interrupt your interactions with children! It considers: how did arrive at a point where they are so busy taking photos and writing up stories and descriptions of children s learning that it takes them away from their interactions, scaffolding and time with children? This session presents a realistic and practical range of strategies for documenting and recording information. It provides templates for ideas for documentation that link to the National Quality Framework and more realistic ways to share experiences between parents and children that saves time, ink, photos and writing! does not start with planning from children s interests it plans with intention from a starting point of expertise about early childhood development and then utilises children s unique contexts, culture and interests as a means to teaching and learning. This session provides examples of how to program with intention through a play-based curriculum that also includes children s interests. Page 25