We seek to draw out our childrens’ gifts, address their challenges and enable them to experience the fullness of life.

– Australian Catholic Bishops Conference, 200 Years Young Pastoral Letter, 2021. ]

The National Catholic Education Commission (NCEC) works in partnership with state and territory peak bodies, school authorities, government and Catholic early childhood education and care services to support children and their families to receive high quality, holistic and Christ-centred early childhood education programs.

Catholic schools and early childhood education and care services embrace cultural diversity and nurture relationships based on Gospel values, and aim to give children the best start in life and support their transition to school.

Catholic education is working towards a future where all children have access to high quality early childhood education services.

For children experiencing vulnerabilities or disadvantage, early education plays an even more significant role in turning the curve on inequality. Catholic education advocates for all children and their families enrolled in early childhood education and care services operated by Catholic schools and agencies to receive a high quality preschool/kindergarten education for the two years prior to compulsory schooling. 

Underpinning this strategy is the commitment to ensure every child has access to a fair start to life, out-of-pocket costs for families are reduced and funding is applied consistently across jurisdictions and sectors. 

This strategy is based on five foundations for implementation:

  • The dignity of every child, especially our most vulnerable and disadvantaged
  • Partnership with families in their role as first educators
  • Valuing diversity, inclusive practice and cultural integrity in all early learning settings
  • Appreciating and recognising our early education workforce 
  • Improving alignment, continuity and transitions between early childhood education and care settings and formal schooling.