Boggabri early childhood educators strike in support of ‘sector in crisis’

Wednesday, September 7, was Early Childhood Educators’ Day and while it is important to recognise educators, local workers feel that it is more important for the community to know that their sector is in crisis.

The educators of Nurruby Boggabri Early Learning Facility had the full support of their management committee to strike from 1pm on Wednesday. The educators said they were very appreciative of their management committee who they feel do their best to support them and understand how difficult it is when they are understaffed, overworked and on low pay. The early childhood educators perform a vital role in our society and have the respect of the parents and families they support.

Boggabri is focusing on growing their own facility. They have 11 educators and only one is not a Boggabri local. Seven out of the 11 educators are studying to improve their skills which in turn improves the quality of care in the Boggabri community. The educators are studying Certificate 3 up to Bachelor of Early Childhood Education. The facility is supporting mature aged and young trainees.

The educators work 9-hour days. They currently care for 12 babies, 15 children aged three to five as well as eight students in their OOSH – Out of school hours care.

Director Camille Wannan said, “Today I am striking in support of my sector. The early childhood education sector. Our sector is in dire need of intervention. We are understaffed and overworked. I am lucky enough to work for an organisation that values their employees and pushes for change.”

She went on to say, “Today I strike for me, my family and the families and children that attend our centre. I strike for me, to continue to gain respect as an educator and not as a babysitter.”

“I strike for my family, for their constant understanding and sacrificing for me working long hours and often working at home. I also strike for our families that attend our centre, to help push for a better system that allows for less stress to be put on educators, more respect and understanding of the important role we play in helping their children to grow, develop and flourish into contributing members of our communities.

“Early childhood is such a vital piece of our education system and it is about time we gain the respect and are valued for the role we play helping to build our nation.”
Other educators echoed Mrs Wannan’s statements saying they wanted to be recognised as educators, not just baby sitters as they work hard to give children the best start to life. They care for the kids, educate and entertain them and foster important values in their early development.

The Boggabri facility would love to have another three or four educators available which would enable them to expand the service.