I enjoyed visiting Howrah Beach Child Care Centre (Phoenix Children’s Services) with Julie Collins MP to discuss the importance of early childhood education and care – not just to workforce participation but because of the vital contribution it makes to the learning and development of children. We were excited to see progress on the centre’s new premises.

It was great to catch up with director Kathryn Laing, an old friend and colleague of mine from my time as a family day carer. Thank you, Kathryn, for taking time out of your busy day to see us, and for introducing us to some very passionate and dedicated educators, and some very inquisitive children!