Scholarships available for ECA Virtual Conference – applications close soon

Scholarships are now available to support members of the early childhood education and care (ECEC) sector to attend Early Childhood Australia’s (ECA) national conference, which is now being presented entirely virtually owing to the ongoing logistical challenges posed by the global COVID-19 pandemic. 

The conference is an important sector-development event that provides opportunities for networking, professional development and information-sharing, one which supports ECA in its commitment to supporting the diversity of individuals and organisations working to strengthen the well-being of young children.

“We recognise that some individuals and organisations may find it difficult to participate in the conference due to limited resources,” a statement from ECA read. As such, ECA has encouraged individuals to take up a Virtual conference scholarship to help promote participation and reduce barriers for delegates wishing to attend the 2021 Conference — Young Citizens: the right to play, learn and be heard.

Virtual conference scholarships will cover the cost of a member or non-member virtual conference registration. Successful applicants must be prepared to attend the full three days of the conference, be available to meet with sponsors and have photos taken via Zoom for later inclusion in media and promotion by both ECA and the sponsor, and provide feedback on the conference and the value of scholarships following the conference. 

Successful applicants’ details will be shared with their sponsors for feedback and interviews (name and basic contact details only).

Virtual conference scholarships will be allocated according to the following criteria:

• individuals/small organisations working in regional, rural or remote locations;
• practitioners supporting disadvantaged or at risk children;
• individuals who have been financially impacted as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

All suitable applicants will be eligible for a virtual conference registration to attend the 2021 ECA National Conference. 

Applications are being accepted until 5pm (AEST) on Friday 20 August 2021, with each application assessed individually and given a response via email within seven working days after applications have closed.