Considering Form and Function: A Commentary on the Review of the Early Years Learning Framework for Australia

Abstract

An important milestone in early childhood education and care is reached in 2021 as Belonging, Being and Becoming: The Early Years Learning Framework for Australia is reviewed. The Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) was groundbreaking. It has been influential in providing national guidelines around pedagogical principles, practice and learning outcomes for children. This commentary is intended to contribute to the wider conversation that is taking place this year. It proposes that a refined EYLF retains the focus on child-centredness and playful learning, and advocates for the structure of the revised document to include continua of learning and development. The provision of learning trajectories would assist early childhood educators to enact the planning cycle, meet National Quality Standard Quality Area 1, and thus potentially increase the learning outcomes for all children.