Four Central Coast Council childcare centres have been named as finalists in the Early Childhood Education Week Awards, recognising their excellence in program development.

Council Unit Manager Learning and Education, Beth Burgess, said having so many of Council’s childcare centres named as finalists recognised the strengths of each centre’s educators as well as the commitment of parents and carers.

“This year the awards attracted more than 400 nominations across the state, so it is a real testament to our educators and the quality of our programs that we have been nominated for 15 awards,” Mrs Burgess said.

“We place a strong emphasis on developing strong connections in our community and a sense of belonging for the benefit of children and their families.

“The awards are a great opportunity to showcase what we are doing well and also enable us to measure the success of our programs so we can continually improve on what we provide to families.

“Special mention goes to Linda Handel from our Toukley Centre whose dedication to inspire those around her has been acknowledged with a nomination for Outstanding Contribution by an Individual.”

During July’s Early Childhood Education Week, all four centres provided a range of experiences for children and their families, which were part of the award process.

The centres are finalists in the following areas:

Major awards

• Best Multicultural Program – Kariong and Kanwal
• Best Sustainability Program - Kanwal
• Best Program highlighting Inclusivity Practices – Kariong

Theme awards

• Children are Connected and Contribute to their World – Kariong and Kanwal
• Children have a Strong Sense of Wellbeing – Wyong
• Children are Effective Communicators - Wyong
• Children engage in Play-Based Education - Toukley
• Keeping Children Healthy & Safe - Wyong
• The Physical Environment where Children Learn & Play - Toukley
• Encouraging Children’s Learning & Development - Toukley
• Families & Communities Uniting - Toukley
• Incorporating Sustainability Practices - Kanwal
• Play and transition to school - Toukley
• Inclusive practice - everyone is welcome – Kariong and Kanwal.

Team and Individual Awards

• Outstanding Contribution by an Individual – Toukley – Linda Handel.

The award winners will be announced on Thursday 27 October 2018.