The allocation of additional resources provided as part of the Federal Government’s Universal Access initiative continues to roll out in Category 1 preschools and child parent centres.

The AEU is engaged in monitoring the implementation in South Australian centres through involvement in the State Government’s Universal Access Stakeholders Advisory Committee and regular meeting with DECS early childhood officers.

A key issue being raised in these forums is workload, particularly for teachers in CPCs where the site manager (School Principal) is not a member of the preschool staff team managing the program and engaging with parents and children on a daily basis. Members are reminded of their entitlements regarding hours of work, contact hours and break times as identified in current Awards and agreements.

Another matter under regular discussion is the potential requirement for all early childhood teachers to hold a four year qualification. Discussions continue regarding  arrangements for members who do not currently meet this requirement.

The AEU continues to monitor the Universal Access roll-out at both state and national levels.

Members in South Australia will soon be surveyed to further identify benefits and concerns regarding the implications of the initiative.