Vickids Early Learning

Framework

The Early Years Learning Framework

Australia's national framework for learning from birth to five. Every approved early learning service plans its program around it, whatever approach it follows.

Belonging, being and becoming

The framework's title sums up how it sees childhood.

Belonging

Knowing where and with whom you belong: family, culture, community and place.

Being

Childhood matters in its own right. Children enjoy the here and now, not only prepare for later.

Becoming

Children's identity, knowledge and skills grow and change over the early years.

The five learning outcomes

These are the broad goals for every child. Educators use them to plan, observe and talk with families about progress.

  1. 1
    Children have a strong sense of identityThey feel safe and secure, grow in independence, know who they are and feel proud of their culture.
  2. 2
    Children are connected with and contribute to their worldThey belong to groups and communities, respect diversity, care for the environment and connect with Country.
  3. 3
    Children have a strong sense of wellbeingThey manage their feelings, build healthy habits and take care of their bodies.
  4. 4
    Children are confident and involved learnersThey are curious, persist with problems, test ideas and use a range of materials and technologies.
  5. 5
    Children are effective communicatorsThey talk, listen, tell stories, explore symbols and patterns, and begin to read and write.

Principles and practices

The principles describe what educators believe. The practices describe what they do every day.

8 principles

  • Secure, respectful and reciprocal relationships
  • Partnerships with families
  • Respect for diversity
  • Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives
  • Equity, inclusion and high expectations
  • Sustainability
  • Critical reflection and ongoing professional learning
  • Collaborative leadership and teamwork

7 practices

  • Holistic, integrated and interconnected approaches
  • Responsiveness to children
  • Play-based learning and intentionality
  • Learning environments
  • Cultural responsiveness
  • Continuity of learning and transitions
  • Assessment and evaluation for learning, development and wellbeing

Version 2.0 added three principles: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives, sustainability, and collaborative leadership and teamwork.

What it means for you

  • Your child's learning stories, photos or app updates are often linked to one of the five outcomes.
  • You are a partner. Educators should ask about your child's interests, culture and routines at home.
  • Some states also have their own early years framework, which works alongside the EYLF.

Read the full framework on the ACECQA website.