ECDA Awards
ECDA Awards for Excellence in Early Childhood Development
The ECDA Awards for Excellence in Early Childhood Development recognises exemplary early childhood (EC) infant and early years educators, preschool educators, early intervention professionals, leaders, as well as centres that have excelled in teaching and learning and in their innovative practice.
The Award Categories are as follows:
A. Individual Awards (Outstanding and Promising Categories)
1. Outstanding/Promising Infant Educator Award and Early Years Educator Award
This Award recognises the exemplary achievements of Infant and Early Years Educators dedicated to high quality early childhood education and care. They pursue excellence through continuing professional development to enhance the quality of their curriculum and pedagogical practices. They foster strong partnerships that positively impact children and families.
Terms and Conditions for the 2025 Outstanding/Promising Infant Educator Award and Early Years Educator Award available here.
2. Outstanding/Promising Preschool Educator Award
This Award recognises the exemplary achievements of Preschool Educators who are committed to delivering high quality early childhood care and education. They exemplify professional behaviours and pursue excellence through continuing professional development to enhance the quality of their curriculum and pedagogical practices. They foster strong partnerships that positively impact children and families.
Terms and Conditions for the 2025 Outstanding/Promising Preschool Educator Award available here.
3. Outstanding/Promising Early Childhood Leader Award
This Award recognises the exemplary achievements of early childhood leaders of childcare centres and kindergartens who excel in organisational, curriculum and collaborative leadership. They exemplify professional behaviours and pursue continuing professional development. They are committed to delivering high quality early childhood care and education that positively impact children and families.
Terms and Conditions for the 2025 Outstanding/Promising Early Childhood Leader Award available here.
4. Outstanding/Promising Early Intervention Professional Award
This Award recognises the exemplary achievements of Early Intervention Professionals who are Early Intervention Educators, Learning Support Educators and Educational Therapy Professionals. They are committed to delivering high quality learning support and early intervention support. They exemplify professional behaviours and pursue excellence through continuing professional development. They foster strong partnerships with families and the community to make a difference in the lives of children with developmental needs.
Terms and Conditions for the 2025 Outstanding/Promising Early Intervention Professional Award available here.
B. Centre Awards
5. Outstanding Centre for Teaching & Learning Award
This Award recognises Early Childhood Development Centres (ECDCs) with excellent programmes, processes and learning environments that promote outstanding teaching and learning practices, supporting children’s learning, development, and well-being. These centres are dedicated to delivering high quality early childhood education and care for children.
Terms and Conditions for the 2025 Outstanding Centre for Teaching & Learning Award available here.
6. Early Childhood Innovation Award
This award recognises Early Childhood Development Centres (ECDCs) and Early Intervention Providers providing ECDA-funded programmes that foster a culture of innovation and implement innovative practices which enhance programmes, processes, or services to benefit children and families.
Terms and Conditions for the 2025 Early Childhood Innovation Award available here.
[Nominations for the ECDA Awards 2025 are now closed]