Murdoch evaluation results highlight benefits of Kids First early years model

Why a new model of education and care?

Did you know: In 2019, the Australian Early Development Census revealed that approximately 20% of children starting full-time school were developmentally vulnerable?

Children who begin school behind everyone else often struggle to catch up, leading to poorer outcomes later in life, including lower achievements in education, ill health, unemployment, and social challenges.

Children might need extra help at kindergarten because they’re having a harder time learning and growing compared to other kids their age.

Our unique model of education and care offers an intentional blend of education and support, to ensure all children can thrive into primary school and beyond. The program offers:

• high staff/child ratios
• diploma qualified staff
• enriched caregiving
• high-quality curriculum-based education based on the new National Early Year Learning Frameworks
• connections to Family Support and Child Protection Services
• a strong focus on building partnerships with parents

The intention is that these features translate into a holistic education and care experience for our students. 

But don't just take our word for it – read on to discover the findings from Murdoch Children's Research Institute evaluation. 

 

• Achieves high family satisfaction and consistent child attendance

During our trial, the evaluation found that families felt very happy with our program. Their children keep coming regularly, which shows that families trust the program and the teachers, even if they face extra challenges.

When families like the program and trust the teachers, they are more involved in their child’s learning and can help make sure their child has a good and steady education.
 

• Cultivates consistent classroom quality

While many early childhood education programs across Australia have shown a drop in quality since 2018, the evaluation found our model has helped keep our kindergartens’ quality consistently high over the past three years.

Consistent classroom quality means children have a stable and supportive learning environment, which is very important for their growth. This stability helps kids feel safe and supports their learning and emotional development.

With better teaching methods, more helpful feedback, and richer language experiences, kids can think better, stay more engaged, and be better prepared for future school challenges.
 

• Promotes strong family relationships

The evaluators recognised our teachers and educators are great at connecting with families, and families often say that our teachers and educators are the best part of their child's kindergarten experience.

Working together with families and listening to their thoughts and feedback helps create a caring and welcoming environment for both children and their families.
 

• Strengthens key educational practices

Staff consistently use effective methods, like staying in touch with children and families, creating a positive learning space, and using a play-based approach that encourages kids to participate. These practices help children grow emotionally, socially, and intellectually.
 

• Offers effective trauma-informed approaches

All educators have been trained to understand and support children who face emotional and challenging situations, both at home and elsewhere. This training has improved their skills and confidence, helping children affected by trauma have a better learning experience and emotional support.
 

• Places high value on family involvement

Our teachers and educators were found to value involving families in their child’s education, building a strong connection between home and kindergarten. This approach helps make the child’s learning experience better and shows that families are important partners in their child’s education.
 

• Increases confidence in difficult conversations

Our model has helped staff feel more comfortable having difficult and sensitive talks with families. This confidence is important for good communication and solving problems. It leads to stronger teamwork between educators and families, which benefits the child.
 

• Fosters collaboration with complementary services

Our model has improved how educators work with other services, making sure children’s various and varied needs are met through teamwork.

This improved collaboration creates a stronger support system for children, helping them do well in kindergarten. It also helps families connect with community services, reducing isolation and keeping them connected to their culture.