2. ECTA Networking for Early Childhood Professionals in: Child Care Kindergarten Preschool Prep Lower Primary

3. History of ECTA ECTA began in 1973 as the Preschool Teachers Association at a time of rapid expansion of the State preschool system by the Queensland Government. The initial meeting organised by Gail Halliwell and Jeanette O’Shea took place at Bardon State Preschool, Brisbane. The Association, which began with 21 committed teachers, now provides a professional link for hundreds of early childhood professionals across the State meeting in local network groups. These groups are supported both financially and professionally through the state coordinating committee based in Brisbane.

4. What is ECTA? ECTA is an association of early childhood professionals working in all sectors. ECTA is committed to promoting early childhood philosophy and the quality care and education of young children. ECTA designs and implements programs that enhance the professional growth of early childhood professionals. ECTA is created and administered by members.

5. Who is ECTA for: Early Childhood Professionals working and learning in: community kindergartens & preschools state, private & independent schools childcare centres family day cares OSHC universities and TAFE other early childhood related services

7. ECTA Values: The contribution of its members, Professional growth, Advocacy of early childhood philosophy, education and issues, A sense of community that equally support diversity and commonality, Young children and their families

8. ECTA Goals: 1.Maintain and increase membership. 2.Provide relevant and accessible professional development. 3.Improve communication with members. 4.Network with other early childhood associations at state and national levels. 5.Advocate for best practice in teaching young children.

9. Membership Benefits Substantially reduced Annual Conference and Workshop costs. Opportunity to access professional development throughout the state using Videolinq technology. DVD’s of the Conference Keynote Address and various workshops held throughout the year. Three high quality journals produced right here in QLD by and for Early Childhood Professionals. Representation on your behalf in a range of issues and government initiatives affecting Early Childhood professionals in QLD The opportunity to apply for $500 sponsorship to attend the ECTA annual conference. Regular e-newsletters Face to face networking through regional groups. A dynamic, interactive and informative website www.ecta.org.au

11. Membership Categories Individual Membership Individuals working in or with an interest in early childhood education and care. Individual Student Membership Full time early childhood student. Group/Organisation Membership School/Education centre/Organisation/Professional Association.

12. FREE Student Membership In 2006 ECTA introduced a new initiative to encourage students to become and continue as ECTA members. The Early Childhood Teachers’ Association is offering full time Early Childhood students FREE membership. FOR MORE DETAILS VISIT www.ecta.org.au

13. NEW ECTA Website ECTA has just launched a dynamic upgrade to our website. Some of the new features include: Event Calendar In the News Members Only log in VISIT OUR WEBSITE TODAY!! www.ecta.org.au

14. How can you join? By accessing the website: www.ecta.org.au By contacting ECTA on : (07) 33582336 By emailing ECTA: info@ecta.org.au

15. Networking for and with Early Childhood Professionals.