ECTA Celebrating State Preschool 1973 – 2006 A great tradition continues

ECTA

Celebrating State Preschool

1973 – 2006A great tradition continues

1973

14 State Preschool facilities open across Queensland

A new era

1973

Purpose built facilities

Incorporating indoor and outdoor learning

environments

1973

Half day programs identified as most appropriate model

Mid 1980’s

Increase in full-day programs

Many of the teachers in Centres opened between 1973-5 were

primary school teachers who undertook special courses to become qualified to teach in early childhood programs.

1973

Division of Preschool Education

Recognition of preschool

education within the

education system

1975

Advisory Teachers

Peer support, professional sharing

and networking

Curriculum practices built on strong theoretical foundations;

Focus on children and community

1989

Division of Schools Early Childhood

A greater focus on P-3

1991/1992

Advisory Teacher role ceases

Teacher networks continue for

professional development

and collegial support

1990’s

Expansion in Child Care Sector

Enrolments in sessional preschool declining

Tieri State Preschool 1984

1998

Preschool Curriculum Guidelines

Positive statement verifying curriculum

practices

Education advisors appointed

Sarina State Preschool 1983

2001

Only 291 of 1100 State Schools are without preschools or EECs

Preschool only provided with

new schools

Provided across the State

2002

Preparing for School trials announced

Possible full-time preparatory year

proposed

Not always in purpose built facilities

2003/2004

Preparatory Year to replace State Preschool from 2007

Prep - building on the strong

traditions of preschool

Fences came down – Programs continued

2006

Early Years Curriculum Guidelines

Early childhood education once again a focus of attention

ECTA celebrates the achievements of State Preschool education in

Queensland

2007

A new chapter begins…..