At Batchelor Institute, we’re proud to spotlight a recent milestone in early childhood education and care (ECEC) training delivered to the remote Yolŋu community of Galiwin’ku, Elcho Island. From 24-28 February 2025, a unique partnership brought vital vocational education to local learners, strengthening the community’s Early Years Workforce and showcasing the power of collaboration on Country.
A Hands-On Approach to Early Childhood Education
Led by Lana Collier, an ECEC VET Lecturer from Batchelor Institute, this initiative delivered a key unit from the Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care: Nurture babies and toddlers (CHCECE032). Over five days, a minimum of nine students—many of whom work within the Galiwin’ku Child Circle network—gained practical skills in real childcare settings. From changing nappies to encouraging crawling and walking, the training met certification requirements while empowering local talent.
“This was a fantastic example of agencies and community working together to make education accessible and relevant,” said Lana Collier. “Our students spent mornings in face-to-face sessions and afternoons interacting with babies and toddlers, ensuring hands-on learning that truly resonates.”
This cohort marks the second group to benefit from the program, following five graduates who earned their Diploma in ECEC from Batchelor Institute. With community interest often drawing extra participants, it’s clear Galiwin’ku values building capacity through education.
Partners Making a Difference
This training’s success stems from a powerful collaboration between Batchelor Institute, Shepherdson College, East Arnhem Regional Council (EARC), and the Northern Territory Government’s Department of Education and Training. Local childcare and Families as First Teachers (FaFT) settings provided essential spaces—feeding, changing, sleeping, and play areas—where students honed their skills with “real live babies.”
A standout partner in this effort is Connected Beginnings, an Australian Government grants program that has served as the backbone of the Galiwin’ku Child Circle collaboration since 2022. Their unwavering support and critical funding have been pivotal in growing the local Early Years Workforce, making initiatives like this Certificate III training possible in remote settings. Connected Beginnings plays an indispensable role in integrating early childhood services, ensuring Galiwin’ku’s learners can thrive while staying connected to their community.
Shepherdson College’s Llani Caffery Panuve, RATE Professional Learning Leader, captured the impact: “This was more than just a course—it’s about building capacity in our community. The Adult Ed room and YM Library were ready, and we’re excited to see our Cert III ladies take their skills to the next level.”
Building Capacity on Country
Launched in 2022, the Galiwin’ku Child Circle collaboration unites programs supporting children from conception to age five. This training aligns with that mission, offering a working ECEC environment that meets industry standards while staying rooted in community needs. It’s a testament to how partnerships can deliver education that’s both practical and culturally meaningful.
Batchelor Institute remains committed to showcasing how teamwork with organisations like Connected Beginnings, Shepherdson College, EARC, and the NT Department of Education and Training makes vocational education thrive in remote Indigenous communities. Together, we’re building a stronger future, one learner at a time.
Learn More About Our Work
Interested in how Batchelor Institute supports remote education? Contact our general enquires line on 1800 677 095.
