Supporting leaders in early childhood education settings: an evaluation of a clinical supervision program for centre directors

Abstract

AbstractEarly childhood educators’ work, especially with children and families experiencing vulnerability, is complex, highly skilled, and can place significant psychological burdens on educators. This may adversely affect educators’ well-being and contribute to the high levels of attrition seen globally. This article reports on an evaluation of a clinical supervision program supporting centre directors in Australian early learning services facing disadvantages. Drawing on data from surveys of centre directors, and interviews with centre directors and clinical supervisors, findings indicate that best-practice supervision has a range of benefits for centre directors’ well-being, professional practice, and growth. Implications for employers and policy-makers are discussed.

Keywords

• Clinical supervision
• early childhood
• well-being
• centre directors
• leaders
• Sammy King Fai Hui