Leading with Impact: A Professional Development Course for Centre Managers
2-Day Course Online
Leading with Impact: A Professional Development Course for Centre Managers
2-Day Course Online
Monday 4th and Tuesday 5th August 2025
9:00am - 5:00pm AEST
9:30am - 5:30pm AEST
7:00am - 3:00pm AWST
INDIVIDUAL - $599
Overview:
This 2-day course provides Centre Managers with essential tools, knowledge, and strategies to lead high-quality early childhood education services. The course covers key areas such as the National Quality Framework (NQF), embedding Indigenous perspectives, supporting educators, fostering positive relationships with children and families, ensuring compliance, and managing difficult conversations. The course will include presentations, case studies, role-plays, group activities, and reflection exercises. Participants will leave with practical skills and action plans to enhance leadership practices and create inclusive, high-quality learning environments.
What Participants Will Learn:
Understand the NQF, NQS, and their role in ensuring compliance and continuous improvement
Gain practical strategies for embedding Indigenous perspectives and cultural competence in early childhood education
Be equipped to support, mentor, and manage educators while fostering a positive and collaborative staff culture
Learn how to handle difficult conversations effectively with staff and families
Build stronger partnerships with families, communities, and stakeholders
Create a supportive and inclusive centre culture that prioritizes educator well-being
Topics:
Day 1: Foundations of Leadership and Quality in Early Childhood Education
Session 1: Introduction to the National Quality Framework (NQF) & Leadership in Early Childhood (9:00 AM - 10:30 AM)
Understanding the NQF and National Quality Standards (NQS)
Overview of the NQF, NQS, and key regulatory requirements
The role of Centre Managers in ensuring compliance and fostering a culture of continuous improvement
Practical Application: Developing a Quality Improvement Plan (QIP)
Activity 1: Group Discussion – Review one of the NQS Quality Areas (e.g., Quality Area 1 or Quality Area 7) and identify actionable improvements for a hypothetical centre. Share with the larger group.
Activity 2: Individual Reflection – Reflect on your centre’s current strengths and areas for improvement in relation to the NQF. Set a goal for the next 6 months.
Break (10:30 AM - 10:45 AM)
Session 2: Embedding Indigenous Curriculum & Cultural Competence (10:45 AM - 12:15 PM)
The Importance of Embedding Indigenous Perspectives
Understanding the significance of Indigenous knowledge, culture, and history in early childhood education
Building partnerships with local Indigenous communities
Practical Strategies for Educators
Ways to incorporate Indigenous stories, art, language, and practices into the curriculum
Developing culturally competent programs and environments for children
Activity 1: Indigenous Curriculum Mapping – In groups, choose an aspect of the Indigenous curriculum (e.g., storytelling, art, language) and create a lesson plan or activity that embeds these elements in an early learning environment.
Activity 2: Interactive Discussion – Share with a partner how you can promote cultural competence within your centre and list at least three actionable steps.
Lunch Break (12:15 PM - 12:45 PM)
Session 3: Supporting Educators & Creating a Positive Staff Culture (12:45 PM - 2:15 PM)
Building a Positive Staff Culture
Strategies for supporting, mentoring, and empowering educators
Encouraging a collaborative and growth-oriented team environment
Recruitment, Retention, and Professional Development
Best practices for staff recruitment, retention, and performance management
Supporting ongoing professional development and career progression
Activity 1: Role-Play – Practice mentoring or feedback conversations. One participant will act as a Centre Manager providing feedback to a staff member, and the other will be the staff member. Switch roles and discuss what worked well.
Activity 2: Small Group Discussion – Share your experiences of creating a supportive staff culture. Discuss what strategies have been effective in your centre and what could be improved.
Break (2:15 PM - 2:30 PM)
Session 4: Children’s Health, Safety, and Well-Being (2:30 PM - 4:00 PM)
Health and Safety Policies and Practices
Ensuring a safe and supportive environment for children
Supporting educators in promoting children’s health, safety, and emotional well-being
Managing Health Risks and Special Needs
Addressing medical conditions, allergies, and disabilities within the centre
Activity 1: Case Study – In groups, read a scenario about a health or safety incident in a childcare setting and work together to devise an appropriate response plan. Present the plan to the group.
Activity 2: Risk Assessment – Conduct a mini-risk assessment of your current centre or a hypothetical centre, identifying potential risks and suggesting ways to mitigate them.
Wrap-up Day 1 & Reflection (4:00 PM - 4:30 PM)
Day 1 Reflection: Key takeaways from Day 1
Action Plan: Write down 2-3 specific actions or strategies you will implement in your centre following Day 1
Day 2: Managing Compliance, Communication, and Building a Positive Centre Culture
Session 1: Governance, Compliance, and Regulatory Adherence (9:00 AM - 10:30 AM)
Ensuring Compliance with NQF and Regulations
Key regulations and the importance of maintaining compliance in daily operations
Effective strategies for tracking, managing, and documenting compliance
Compliance Audits and Documentation
Preparing for and responding to compliance audits and inspections
Activity 1: Mini Compliance Audit – In pairs, conduct a mock audit using a compliance checklist for a childcare centre. Discuss findings and suggest improvements.
Activity 2: Group Discussion – Share any challenges you’ve faced around compliance in your centre and brainstorm solutions with the group.
Break (10:30 AM - 10:45 AM)
Session 2: Managing Difficult Conversations (10:45 AM - 12:15 PM)
Approaches to Difficult Conversations
Strategies for handling sensitive topics with staff, parents, and children
Conflict resolution techniques and maintaining professionalism during challenging conversations
Performance Issues and Feedback
Best practices for addressing staff performance issues constructively
Providing feedback that promotes growth and improvement
Activity 1: Role-Play – Practice a difficult conversation scenario (e.g., addressing a performance issue with an educator). One person plays the Centre Manager, and the other plays the staff member. Switch roles and discuss key takeaways.
Activity 2: Case Study – In small groups, read a scenario about a challenging conversation (e.g., with a parent or staff member) and discuss the most effective communication strategies to resolve the issue.
Lunch Break (12:15 PM - 12:45 PM)
Session 3: Building Relationships with Children, Families, and Communities (12:45 PM - 2:15 PM)
Collaborative Partnerships with Families
Building strong relationships with families and engaging them in the learning process
Strategies for involving families in decision-making and activities
Community Engagement and Support
Fostering relationships with local community organizations and services
Activity 1: Family Engagement Plan – In groups, design a strategy to increase family engagement at your centre. Consider practical ways to invite families to contribute to the educational experience.
Activity 2: Role-Play – Practice communicating with a family member who is concerned about their child's progress. Focus on active listening, empathy, and problem-solving.
Break (2:15 PM - 2:30 PM)
Session 4: Creating a Positive Centre Culture & Staff Well-Being (2:30 PM - 4:00 PM)
Building a Positive and Inclusive Centre Culture
Promoting respect, collaboration, and a culture of continuous learning among staff
Creating a supportive environment for educators and children
Supporting Educators' Mental Health and Well-Being
Strategies for preventing burnout and providing self-care support for staff
Activity 1: Staff Well-Being Plan – In groups, develop a well-being and professional development plan for your staff. Include strategies for fostering mental health, recognition, and work-life balance.
Activity 2: Centre Culture Audit – Conduct a quick audit of your centre’s culture using a provided checklist, and identify areas where you can make improvements. Discuss with the group.
Wrap-up & Action Plan (4:00 PM - 4:30 PM)
Final Reflection: Key takeaways from Day 2
Action Plan: Develop a personal action plan to implement the strategies learned and share one key area you will focus on improving immediately
Q&A Session: Open discussion to address any remaining questions or concerns
Additional Course Benefits:
Certificate of Completion: Participants will receive a certificate upon finishing the course
Resource Pack: Access to templates, checklists, and guides for applying course strategies
Networking Opportunities: Opportunities to connect with other Centre Managers and early childhood professionals
This 2-day course provides Centre Managers with in-depth, practical learning and reflection time to equip them with essential leadership, compliance, and educator support skills. Through hands-on activities and real-world applications, participants will leave empowered to implement actionable strategies that promote quality early childhood education and a positive, supportive environment.
2-Day Course Online
Monday 4th and Tuesday 5th August 2025
9:00am - 5:00pm AEST
9:30am - 5:30pm AEST
7:00am - 3:00pm AWST
INDIVIDUAL - $599
Overview:
This 2-day course provides Centre Managers with essential tools, knowledge, and strategies to lead high-quality early childhood education services. The course covers key areas such as the National Quality Framework (NQF), embedding Indigenous perspectives, supporting educators, fostering positive relationships with children and families, ensuring compliance, and managing difficult conversations. The course will include presentations, case studies, role-plays, group activities, and reflection exercises. Participants will leave with practical skills and action plans to enhance leadership practices and create inclusive, high-quality learning environments.
What Participants Will Learn:
Understand the NQF, NQS, and their role in ensuring compliance and continuous improvement
Gain practical strategies for embedding Indigenous perspectives and cultural competence in early childhood education
Be equipped to support, mentor, and manage educators while fostering a positive and collaborative staff culture
Learn how to handle difficult conversations effectively with staff and families
Build stronger partnerships with families, communities, and stakeholders
Create a supportive and inclusive centre culture that prioritizes educator well-being
Topics:
Day 1: Foundations of Leadership and Quality in Early Childhood Education
Session 1: Introduction to the National Quality Framework (NQF) & Leadership in Early Childhood (9:00 AM - 10:30 AM)
Understanding the NQF and National Quality Standards (NQS)
Overview of the NQF, NQS, and key regulatory requirements
The role of Centre Managers in ensuring compliance and fostering a culture of continuous improvement
Practical Application: Developing a Quality Improvement Plan (QIP)
Activity 1: Group Discussion – Review one of the NQS Quality Areas (e.g., Quality Area 1 or Quality Area 7) and identify actionable improvements for a hypothetical centre. Share with the larger group.
Activity 2: Individual Reflection – Reflect on your centre’s current strengths and areas for improvement in relation to the NQF. Set a goal for the next 6 months.
Break (10:30 AM - 10:45 AM)
Session 2: Embedding Indigenous Curriculum & Cultural Competence (10:45 AM - 12:15 PM)
The Importance of Embedding Indigenous Perspectives
Understanding the significance of Indigenous knowledge, culture, and history in early childhood education
Building partnerships with local Indigenous communities
Practical Strategies for Educators
Ways to incorporate Indigenous stories, art, language, and practices into the curriculum
Developing culturally competent programs and environments for children
Activity 1: Indigenous Curriculum Mapping – In groups, choose an aspect of the Indigenous curriculum (e.g., storytelling, art, language) and create a lesson plan or activity that embeds these elements in an early learning environment.
Activity 2: Interactive Discussion – Share with a partner how you can promote cultural competence within your centre and list at least three actionable steps.
Lunch Break (12:15 PM - 12:45 PM)
Session 3: Supporting Educators & Creating a Positive Staff Culture (12:45 PM - 2:15 PM)
Building a Positive Staff Culture
Strategies for supporting, mentoring, and empowering educators
Encouraging a collaborative and growth-oriented team environment
Recruitment, Retention, and Professional Development
Best practices for staff recruitment, retention, and performance management
Supporting ongoing professional development and career progression
Activity 1: Role-Play – Practice mentoring or feedback conversations. One participant will act as a Centre Manager providing feedback to a staff member, and the other will be the staff member. Switch roles and discuss what worked well.
Activity 2: Small Group Discussion – Share your experiences of creating a supportive staff culture. Discuss what strategies have been effective in your centre and what could be improved.
Break (2:15 PM - 2:30 PM)
Session 4: Children’s Health, Safety, and Well-Being (2:30 PM - 4:00 PM)
Health and Safety Policies and Practices
Ensuring a safe and supportive environment for children
Supporting educators in promoting children’s health, safety, and emotional well-being
Managing Health Risks and Special Needs
Addressing medical conditions, allergies, and disabilities within the centre
Activity 1: Case Study – In groups, read a scenario about a health or safety incident in a childcare setting and work together to devise an appropriate response plan. Present the plan to the group.
Activity 2: Risk Assessment – Conduct a mini-risk assessment of your current centre or a hypothetical centre, identifying potential risks and suggesting ways to mitigate them.
Wrap-up Day 1 & Reflection (4:00 PM - 4:30 PM)
Day 1 Reflection: Key takeaways from Day 1
Action Plan: Write down 2-3 specific actions or strategies you will implement in your centre following Day 1
Day 2: Managing Compliance, Communication, and Building a Positive Centre Culture
Session 1: Governance, Compliance, and Regulatory Adherence (9:00 AM - 10:30 AM)
Ensuring Compliance with NQF and Regulations
Key regulations and the importance of maintaining compliance in daily operations
Effective strategies for tracking, managing, and documenting compliance
Compliance Audits and Documentation
Preparing for and responding to compliance audits and inspections
Activity 1: Mini Compliance Audit – In pairs, conduct a mock audit using a compliance checklist for a childcare centre. Discuss findings and suggest improvements.
Activity 2: Group Discussion – Share any challenges you’ve faced around compliance in your centre and brainstorm solutions with the group.
Break (10:30 AM - 10:45 AM)
Session 2: Managing Difficult Conversations (10:45 AM - 12:15 PM)
Approaches to Difficult Conversations
Strategies for handling sensitive topics with staff, parents, and children
Conflict resolution techniques and maintaining professionalism during challenging conversations
Performance Issues and Feedback
Best practices for addressing staff performance issues constructively
Providing feedback that promotes growth and improvement
Activity 1: Role-Play – Practice a difficult conversation scenario (e.g., addressing a performance issue with an educator). One person plays the Centre Manager, and the other plays the staff member. Switch roles and discuss key takeaways.
Activity 2: Case Study – In small groups, read a scenario about a challenging conversation (e.g., with a parent or staff member) and discuss the most effective communication strategies to resolve the issue.
Lunch Break (12:15 PM - 12:45 PM)
Session 3: Building Relationships with Children, Families, and Communities (12:45 PM - 2:15 PM)
Collaborative Partnerships with Families
Building strong relationships with families and engaging them in the learning process
Strategies for involving families in decision-making and activities
Community Engagement and Support
Fostering relationships with local community organizations and services
Activity 1: Family Engagement Plan – In groups, design a strategy to increase family engagement at your centre. Consider practical ways to invite families to contribute to the educational experience.
Activity 2: Role-Play – Practice communicating with a family member who is concerned about their child's progress. Focus on active listening, empathy, and problem-solving.
Break (2:15 PM - 2:30 PM)
Session 4: Creating a Positive Centre Culture & Staff Well-Being (2:30 PM - 4:00 PM)
Building a Positive and Inclusive Centre Culture
Promoting respect, collaboration, and a culture of continuous learning among staff
Creating a supportive environment for educators and children
Supporting Educators' Mental Health and Well-Being
Strategies for preventing burnout and providing self-care support for staff
Activity 1: Staff Well-Being Plan – In groups, develop a well-being and professional development plan for your staff. Include strategies for fostering mental health, recognition, and work-life balance.
Activity 2: Centre Culture Audit – Conduct a quick audit of your centre’s culture using a provided checklist, and identify areas where you can make improvements. Discuss with the group.
Wrap-up & Action Plan (4:00 PM - 4:30 PM)
Final Reflection: Key takeaways from Day 2
Action Plan: Develop a personal action plan to implement the strategies learned and share one key area you will focus on improving immediately
Q&A Session: Open discussion to address any remaining questions or concerns
Additional Course Benefits:
Certificate of Completion: Participants will receive a certificate upon finishing the course
Resource Pack: Access to templates, checklists, and guides for applying course strategies
Networking Opportunities: Opportunities to connect with other Centre Managers and early childhood professionals
This 2-day course provides Centre Managers with in-depth, practical learning and reflection time to equip them with essential leadership, compliance, and educator support skills. Through hands-on activities and real-world applications, participants will leave empowered to implement actionable strategies that promote quality early childhood education and a positive, supportive environment.
