Introduction
Australia’s Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) is a vital guide for early childhood educators, focusing on holistic development, wellbeing, and learning outcomes. At Evoke Early Learning, our adoption of the Reggio Emilia early learning centre approach seamlessly aligns with EYLF goals, providing a rich, meaningful curriculum that nurtures every child.
1. Understanding the EYLF and Its Importance
The EYLF outlines five key learning outcomes that focus on identity, community, wellbeing, learning, and communication. It promotes play-based learning and the development of confident, involved learners.
Further Reading: All You Need to Know About the Early Years Learning Framework
2. Shared Values: How Reggio Emilia Complements EYLF
Both frameworks value child agency, exploration, and relationship-based learning. The Reggio Emilia early learning centre approach adds depth by emphasizing creativity, collaboration, and inquiry-led experiences.
Further Reading:
- Cultivating Curiosity: The Reggio Emilia Way
- Community as Curriculum: The Role of Families in Reggio Emilia
3. The Environment as an Educator
Reggio Emilia early learning centres are intentionally designed to be engaging and reflective of children's learning. Natural materials and open-ended resources invite creativity and interaction, supporting EYLF’s emphasis on responsive learning spaces.
Further Reading:
4. Art, Expression, and Emotional Intelligence
Creative expression is central in both Reggio and EYLF frameworks. The atelier encourages children to explore identity, emotion, and ideas through art and media, supporting emotional and cognitive growth.
Further Reading:
- The Atelier: A Creative Hub for Exploration and Expression
- Beyond Academics: Nurturing the Whole Child in Reggio Emilia
5. Supporting Diverse Learners Through Individualised Approaches
Reggio Emilia’s flexible approach allows educators to tailor learning experiences to each child’s needs, aligning with EYLF’s commitment to inclusive education.
Further Reading: Reggio Emilia for All: Adapting the Approach for Diverse Learners
6. Documentation and Reflective Practice
Ongoing documentation in Reggio Emilia aligns with EYLF’s focus on assessment for learning, providing a deeper understanding of each child’s journey and informing future planning.
Further Reading: The Reggio Emilia Approach and Why It Benefits Your Child
Parent Testimonial
“Our daughter thrives at Evoke. The educators are thoughtful and truly listen to her interests. It’s incredible to see how the curriculum adapts to support her growth while aligning with national standards.” – Parent review from Google, Albert Park Centre
Conclusion
By integrating the Reggio Emilia early learning centre philosophy with EYLF principles, Evoke Early Learning offers a holistic, future-ready curriculum. Our commitment ensures that each child is seen, heard, and supported in their learning journey.
If you're located near our childcare centres in Melbourne, we invite you to discover how Reggio Emilia and EYLF come together to create a truly exceptional early learning experience.
We’d love to welcome you to see this approach in action.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the main similarities between EYLF and the Reggio Emilia approach?
Both emphasize child agency, relationships, learning through play, and environments that nurture exploration and growth.
2. How does Reggio Emilia support the EYLF learning outcomes?
Reggio Emilia naturally supports EYLF’s five outcomes by providing experiences that foster identity, wellbeing, learning confidence, community connection, and communication skills.
3. Can Reggio Emilia be adapted to meet Australian educational standards?
Yes. Reggio Emilia’s principles are highly adaptable and align well with EYLF’s learning goals, making it an effective framework for Australian early childhood settings.
4. Is Reggio Emilia inclusive for children with additional needs?
Absolutely. The approach encourages personalized learning and values every child’s capabilities, making it inclusive for diverse learners.
5. How can I see this approach in action at Evoke?
We invite families to visit our centres, observe our learning environments, and speak with our educators about how we integrate EYLF with Reggio Emilia every day.
Tracey is a highly qualified educator and administrator and brings a strong combination of academic achievement, extensive work experience in the education and business sectors as well as drive and passion to her role as General Manager of Operations at Evoke Early Learning.
Tracey has a Master of Education and an Advanced Diploma of Business and holds VIT Dual Registration to teach in Early Childhood and Primary School settings. She’s also a VIT Trained Mentor Teacher and has worked in ECEC settings as a Director, Educational Leader and as a Victorian Senior Area manager. Her recognition as a state finalist in the recent Director of the Year Awards is testament to her achievements in the early education sector.
Her extensive work experience also included a stint as Head of Curriculum at the Royal Children’s Hospital Education Institute and positions as head of ICT at a number of large primary and secondary schools. Tracey is also experienced in not-for-profit sessional kindergarten settings and long daycare environments, so she has a deep understanding of what’s required to support the needs and expectations of young children, educators, parents and caregivers.
Tracey is responsible for operational management at Evoke Early Learning’s Clayton centre in Oakleigh East and their Albert Park centre in South Melbourne and is deeply committed to leading and driving effective and sustainable service delivery throughout the company.
Tracey is passionate about making a meaningful difference to young children, their parents and the wider community and under her expert guidance, Evoke Early Learning is continuing to raise the bar in quality early education and childcare.
