Grow Your Career in Regional Childcare

Your professional growth is our priority. At the CLA, we’re dedicated to fostering the next generation of leaders in regional childcare by providing access to a variety of professional development opportunities. We understand the unique challenges of working in regional communities, and our programs are designed to help you advance your career, connect with peers, and build a strong professional network.

How We Provide Professional Development

The CLA’s ability to offer and promote these programs is dependent on receiving funding and support from our partners. We offer and promote a range of programs and resources tailored to regional educators, including:

Leadership Programs
Develop the skills and confidence to lead teams and become a champion for your community.

Online Courses
Access flexible learning opportunities that fit your busy schedule.

Networking Events
Connect with other passionate educators, share insights, and build a supportive community through online and in-person events.

Conference Sponsorship
We provide opportunities for educators to attend major industry conferences, offering an unparalleled chance for learning and networking.

Current & Ongoing Programs

The CLA has developed a range of valuable, bespoke professional development opportunities. Our current and ongoing programs include:

Care to Lead:

is now being offered as an online, self-paced program that introduces educators to foundational leadership skills and concepts. There are 9 modules covering the difference between a manager and a leader, continuous improvement, motivating and inspiring others, goal and project management hacks, and how to get others involved.

Get Ready for Work:

is a unique self-paced, online program that aims to support students, educators new to the sector, educators returning from a long break from the sector, and qualified educators from overseas. The program uses short video modules to provide insights on:

  • The regulatory framework and structure that is the foundation for working in the early years / school age care sector in Australia
  • What play based learning is
  • Career pathways and opportunities available in in the sector
  • Qualification requirements
  • The positives and challenges of living in a regional community.

Future Professional Development Opportunities

We are constantly seeking grant funding for a range of new professional development opportunities. As these become available, you’ll have the opportunity to access them.

Past Programs & Events

We have provided a range of high-impact professional development opportunities, thanks to the generous support of our partners. Past events and programs include:

  • C&K Conference Trip (2024)

    A selected participant was sponsored by the Moranbah Workers Club with an all-expenses-paid trip to the C&K conference in Brisbane. Upon their return, they presented and shared their insights with peers.

  • Care to Lead Live Delivery (2024)

    This program was delivered thanks to funding from The Local Buying Foundation and the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal.

  • Supporting Children’s Behaviour, Dr. Louise Porter (Sep 2023) We brought the highly sought-after expert, Dr. Louise Porter, to Moranbah for a full-day session on supporting children’s behavior.
  • Supporting Children’s Behaviour through Communication-Rich Environments (May 2023) An Astute Early Years Specialists team member delivered an in-person evening session in Moranbah, exploring how to create communication-rich environments to support children’s behavior.
  • Self-Care for Educators (March 2023) In partnership with Astute Early Years Specialists, we delivered an online session focused on self-care, recognising the considerable pressures experienced by educators in the sector.

Stay Informed on Upcoming Opportunities

Our professional development offerings are constantly evolving to meet the needs of the sector. The best way to stay up-to-date on new programs, courses, and events is to join our community.

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