Insider perspectives on developing Belonging, Being & Becoming: The early years learning framework for Australia

Abstract

IN JULY 2009, THE COUNCIL of Australian Governments approved for immediate implementation, 'Belonging, Being & Becoming: The Early Years Learning Framework for Australia' (EYLF), Australia's first national framework for guiding curriculum and pedagogy in all early childhood settings. In this article, several core members of the Charles Sturt University-led Consortium contracted to develop and trial the EYLF outline the political and policy context that has shaped its development; the intent and approach of the Consortium; and some of the many 'decision points and dilemmas' (Westbury, 2007) they encountered. The article concludes with reflections on lessons learned and implications for early childhood curriculum development.