Victorians are being encouraged to recognise those who improve the lives of young children by nominating an individual or organisation for a Victorian Early Years Award.
Now in their 15th year, the Victorian Early Years Awards recognise, reward and celebrate individuals and organisations, and highlight innovative initiatives aimed at improving outcomes within the early years sector.
This year, the awards will celebrate the achievements and commitment of early childhood professionals across seven award categories.
These include improving access and participation, supporting parents and promoting children’s health and wellbeing, as well as the prestigious Early Childhood Teacher of the Year.
Eastern Victoria MP Harriet Shing called on families, early childhood professionals and early years support organisations in the region to nominate themselves or others, with nominations now open.
“Eastern Victoria is home to many passionate early years professionals, and exceptional early years services,” Ms Shing said.
“This year’s Victorian Early Years Awards are the perfect opportunity to celebrate the people, organisations and services that help Victorian children to get the best start in life.”
Award winners will receive up to $15,000 to further develop and share the lessons of their work in kindergartens, schools, local councils, maternal child and health services and other early years organisations across the state.
Nominations for the awards close on 6 July, with finalists announced in September ahead of the awards ceremony expected to be held in November.
For more information or to submit a nomination, visit: www.education.vic.gov.au/veya.
