Managerialism is driving the crisis in early childhood education

With hundreds of early childhood services closing their doors in 2022 due to staff shortages, it is clear the sector is in crisis.

The welfare of early childhood educators is important, given the sector’s staffing shortfall, with turnover rates of at least 30 per cent.

In a survey of 4000 educators, 73 per cent said they planned to leave in the next three years. Of those who plan to stay, 46 per cent say they think about going 'all of the time' or 'most of the time'.

Educator welfare is also vital because it affects the quality of their interactions with young children. The quality of interactions is key to the quality of education and care the children receive in these crucial years. Each child is unique, and so is their family, community and early childhood service, meaning educators need to be skilful in adjusting to their needs.