Declarations, Conventions, Obligations, and Codes

I developed further knowledge regarding National Regulations by reading the Education and Care Services National Regulations and Law. I was able to recognise how these standards are used to do the NQF and inform the operation of the services on a day to day basis. I asked about compliance and documentation, and I began to understand how policy was intertwined with practice. Interrogating moral and legal discourses of childrearing.

Understanding Relevant Declarations and Conventions

In my placement, I have discovered a number of important declarations and conventions that influence my work as an early childhood educator. These include:

1) Code of Ethics (ECA): Code of Ethics (ECA) has provided with the knowledge of importance of the dignity and respect of child, anti-bias practices and equity and fairness in all aspect of practice (Early Childhood Australia [ECA], 2016).

2) National Quality Framework (NQF) : This system (NQF) gives me a way to ensure my standards of practice are consistent with professional and regulatory requirements. The resource provides a benchmark to ensure safety requirements and quality of care and developmental outcomes for children in my practice (Australian Children’s Education & Care Quality Authority [ACECQA], 2020).

3) United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) : The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) tells me that children require advocacy in order for them to be able to take part in decisions in their life and actively claim their rights (United Nations, 1989).

4) National Regulations and Standards : The National Regulations and Standards informed me of the responsibilities that enable early childhood services to comply with safe as well as operational standards and to the point affect my practice such as ratios of educators and kitchen (ACECQA, 2020).

5) Child Protection Law: I have become aware of my duty to protect children from harm, by noticing the signs and following through with the process to report concerns (Australian Government, 2022).

6) Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) – I now include EYLF principles into my daily planning for children learning and development to be promoted in manner that supports their identity, well-being and their involvement in and with the world (Department of Education, 2022).

Putting Declarations into Action

I, as an early childhood educator, bring these statements to life through my classroom with an inclusive, respectful and safe learning environment. Inspired by the ECA Code of Ethics and the UNCRC, I value each child’s opinion and give them a voice, by providing options in group times and encouraging self expression through all forms of play and during conversation. I scaffold EYLF practices by designing learning activities which are responsive to children’s interests, identity and wellbeing – for example, by creating a role-play area where children enact different family roles. I abide by NQF and National Regulations regarding ratios, safety checks and hygiene. I also keep an eye out for harm signs, and I follow child protection protocols., to make it known that I am committed to the safety and rights of every child.(Early Childhood Australia [ECA], 2016).

Need More Guidance?

Feeling overwhelmed? Start by familiarizing yourself with the most relevant codes of conduct for your specific role or industry. We are here to help.

Contact us