Early childhood teachers and educators will be celebrated on Wednesday 4 September for their vital role in nurturing the next generation for success.
NSW Department of Education Secretary Murat Dizdar paid tribute to the contribution of this workforce ahead of Early Childhood Educators' Day.
"You are the beating heart of our sector, and we appreciate your dedication and determination to make a difference for our youngest learners," Mr Dizdar said.
"We see the meaningful impact you make in the lives of our children, families and communities and we say thank you."
Early Childhood Educators' Day was started in 2011 by the Australian Childcare Alliance Queensland branch.
Research shows that 90% of a child's brain development happens by the age of 5 and that this period affects a child's long-term education, health and social outcomes.
Mr Dizdar said high quality early childhood education and care was instrumental in helping children build the physical, social, emotional and cognitive skills they need before school and in laying the foundations for lifelong wellbeing and success.
"We believe every child deserves to have access to high quality early childhood education and care, regardless of their family's postcode, income or circumstances," he said.
"This is not possible without you and the expertise, experience and enthusiasm you bring to work every day. You are key to giving our children the best start in life and learning."
Deputy Secretary for Early Childhood Outcomes Mark Barraket said the NSW Department of Education wanted educators and teachers to have rewarding careers in early learning.
"A strong, skilled, sustainable and valued workforce is crucial to be able to deliver high quality early childhood education and care right across the state," Mr Barraket said.
"We value the significant contribution early childhood educators play in supporting the education and care of children across NSW."
Initiatives within the NSW Budget 2024-2025 to support the early childhood education and care sector:
More than $17 million to deliver scholarships and professional learning
$5.3 million Business Capability Development Program to help small providers to thrive and support their local communities with high quality services
$10 million partnership with TAFE NSW to support early childhood educators and teachers to access professional learning, launching in Spring 2024.
The NSW Department of Education is engaging with the early learning sector at its ECE Connect Online sessions from August 26 to September 12, as well as in face-to-face ECE Connect On The Road sessions in October in Parramatta, Wollongong, Queanbeyan and Batemans Bay.
