More than 400 employees have been recognised in Australia’s first Lifelong Learning Curriculum Certification graduations, representing an exciting new industry qualification pathway in the early education sector.
CEO Tim Hickey, COO Nishad Alani, CFO Cathy Montesin and Head of Engagement and Publicity Carla Adams joined Affinity’s Education Projects Advisor Jessica Mitchel and six highly experienced employees working in positions ranging from Lead Educator to Area Manager, who have all achieved their Certification within the past months.
“This is a really special day for Affinity Education Group - our Lifelong Learning Curriculum is now industry recognised through a qualification pathway available to all employees working in our centres,” Mr Hickey said.
“Congratulations to our ECT, Mr Man, Lead Educator Robbie, our Senior Educational Leader Molly, and to our Area Manager Amanda and Centre Manager Elle for your leadership in our Lifelong Learning Curriculum – you represent all of Affinity Education Group in your commitment to delivering Australia’s most advanced approach to early years education,” he said.
Affinity’s Lifelong Learning Curriculum Certification pathway includes four formal stages of learning and assessment for each employee.
The first stage is Theory, with e-learning modules completed by employees in paid learning time, and a formal assessment at the end. Educators must pass with at least 90% to earn their LLC Theory badge, and can complete all three age groups to become recognised as an Expert in the Lifelong Learning Curriculum.
During the Environments stage of Certification, educators and teachers demonstrate room set ups and invitations to play for children based on specific learning zones appropriate to each age group or Lifelong Learning Curriculum program.
In the Articulation stage of certification, educators and teachers work with their Centre Manager, Area Manager or Affinity Education Advisor to explain the frameworks of the Lifelong Learning Curriculum.
The final stage of certification is Program and Planning – demonstrating the LLC embedded into educational programs and practice.
“Affinity’s Lifelong Learning Curriculum Certification process really has supported the continous learning and progress of our children and all our educators,” explained Elle Clarkson, an Affinity Centre Manager.
Molly Ham, a Room Leader who also recently took on the higher paid role of Senior Educational Leader for Affinity Education Group in her local Brisbane Area, said achieving Lifelong Learning Curriculum Certification had created ‘clarity in my curriculum decision making, and program planning and practice.”
Mr Hickey said Affinity Education Group will host bi-annual graduations for employees certified in the Lifelong Learning Curriculum.
“The qualification will ensure employees are eligible for higher paid positions including Lead Educator and Senior Educational Leader, along with ensuring their professional development and recognition within the sector,” he said.