Preparing practitioners to work with young children and their families in uncertain times: understanding contexts

Abstract

The preparation of graduates to work effectively in the early childhood education and care sector is of particular relevance in times of dramatic policy reform (Griffith University, 2001). Graduates entering the workforce can find themselves working in contexts of which they have limited experience. As such, preparatory university programs of study need to reflect these changes and ensure that degree programs that are offered do indeed meet the ever-changing needs of the students that enrol, providing them with the necessary knowledge and skills that are transferable across this broad community sector.