Embedded Files
Day 1
Day 1
Beginning my professional placement in the same service where I am currently working brought a unique mix of familiarity and challenges. On one hand, I felt confident knowing the service’s policies, routines, and expectations. On the other hand, I was aware that steeping into the role of a student required me to adopt a different lens, to see the environment not only as an educator but also as a learning and growing student.
In my first hour of my shift, I recognised the importance of clarifying this new role. Although I already understood many of the operational policies, I felt it was essential to ensure I was meeting all expectations specific to students. Requesting the Student, Volunteer and Visitors Policy was an intentional decision to demonstrate professionalism and a proactive attitude towards compliance and ethical practice. Reviewing this policy and revisiting key documents such as the Child Protection, Code of Conduct, and Privacy and Confidentiality policies, remined me that working in the early childhood education is a dynamic profession where continuous learning is critical.
Day 2
Day 2
The week was about National Reconciliation Week (NRW).
We began with a morning group time by acknowledging the traditional owners and custodians of the land, their historical and ongoing connection to the land and their role in caring for it. For excitement, we sang songs like “Taba Naba” and “Inanay” using musical instruments. I chose a child for my observations, documentation and planning purpose. The child attends the service as same day as my placement days, so I can have a consistent opportunity to track progress and plan targeted experiences.
For afternoon experience, we did colour playdough where each colour has its meaning. We made black playdough to represent Aboriginal people, red for earth, and yellow for the sun. I focused on developing respectful relationship with children, families and colleagues. I did nappy change, supervise nap time, mealtimes with children where I engaged with children in a responsive way. My goal is to continue fostering an inclusive and respectful environment for all children.
Day 3
Day 3
As continuing with the National reconciliation week (NRW), we engaged in a special experience to celebrate the day. Using coloured rice, children decorated a large Aboriginal flag. The children explored the textures and colours- red, yellow, and black- representing the sun, the Earth, and Aboriginal people. It was a wonderful opportunity for the children to learn and appreciate Aboriginal culture.
Today was a meaningful day filled with learning and respect for country. This experience strengthens for me the importance of hands-on play, culturally applicable learning environment in the setting, and fondly children embrace new learning when presented engagingly (Arthur et al., 2024).
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