Awarded to an early childhood teacher who demonstrates evidence-based innovation and exemplary practice in early childhood education, and making a significant contribution to the development and delivery of high-quality early childhood education programs that improve learning and development outcomes for children.

Winner - Louise Bayley

As an early childhood teacher at Kalkallo Pre-School, Louise Bayley works in a growing and diverse community with a large population of new migrants.

Louise's reflective and respectful teaching practice is driven by her dedication to the wellbeing of children and families and the fostering of reciprocal relationships. Embodying Victorian Early Years Learning Development Framework practice principles, Louise's dedication to improving children's access to learning is shaped by following children's lead, engaging with families and having a strong focus on promoting cultural understanding to improve children and families' health and wellbeing.

Always seeking opportunities to extend her knowledge to meet the specific needs of children and their families, Louise is able to identify any barriers to their learning, and adopt strategies that encourage children to develop from their unique point of need.

Working with other educators during the recent lockdowns, Louise provided children and their families with access to support services, creating a community library and providing engaging resources to support at-home learning.