Early Learning Framework still academic gobbledegook

03-April-2009

The Rudd Labor Government’s amended National Early Learning Framework was described as “still academic gobbledegook” by Shadow Minister for Early Childhood Education and Childcare Sophie Mirabella MP said today.

“The original Framework has failed, but the latest version isn’t much better. It just doesn’t stand up to scrutiny, and no thought appears to have been given to how this will further push up the cost of care for parents.” Mrs Mirabella said during a tour of childcare centres in Queensland today.

“Many of the concepts discussed are highly theoretical and raise questions about how this Framework, which is costing taxpayers $2.5 million, will actually be implemented.”

Mrs Mirabella said the Labor Government must explain to parents exactly how the National Early Learning Framework will improve outcomes for our children, and how much it will cost. The Rudd Government needs to answer:

• Exactly how will each outcome be taught in a practical sense, and how will success be measured?/li>
• What will happen if the trial, which is only around 7 weeks, finds flaws or shortcomings within the Framework?
• Has there been any assessment of the cost of delivering the framework in every childcare centre across Australia, particularly in terms of teacher and staff training?
• Will the cost of childcare go up as a result?

“Parliamentary Secretary Maxine McKew has been talking about the importance of this Early Learning Framework but, if it doesn’t have practical guidelines that can be measured by outcomes, it will largely be a waste of time,” Mrs Mirabella said.

“The original framework that I criticised back in December was full of blatant politically correct brainwashing and I’m glad it has been re-written. However, even the Government’s second attempt is still highly theoretical and in many ways subjective.”

“I call on Ms Mckew to explain how this new framework will be implemented, what direct benefits it will have for Australian children, and what the cost implication will be for parents. It seems to have been a costly exercise in academia and theory,” Mrs Mirabella said.

“Enough is enough, the Rudd Labor Government and Ms McKew must deliver on their election promises – including making childcare more affordable for working families.”

“Latest reports suggest the Government’s policies will actually impact on working families by making childcare more expensive – Australian parents deserve better. I will be making sure the Government is held accountable over their embarrassing first and second attempts at the much publicised Early Learning Framework,” Mrs Mirabella concluded.