Presenter – Dr Victoria Whitington. Adjunct Associate Professor, UNISA Education Futures
Early childhood education in South Australia has a remarkable history closely tied to the women who understood and fought for the right of young children 3-8 years to have an education. From the first public kindergarten demonstration in the garden of a house in Medindie to Australia’s first Aboriginal woman principal, this state has strong ties with early childhood education. The presentation focuses on the stories of six extraordinary women leaders, Lillian deLissa, Doris Beeston, Kathleen Mellor, Nancy Brumbie/Barnes, Amy O’Donoghue/Levai and Alice/Alitja Rigney.

It reveals how through their persistent advocacy they brought early childhood education to generations of children, non-Aboriginal and Aboriginal. Sub-themes include: the role of early years education in creating a democratic society; viewing children as competent contributors to their community; teacher education; and reconciliation with Aboriginal Australia. Knowledge of early childhood education history enables the South Australian community to become aware of the leadership of these women, and to consider what might be learned.