At Sprouts Early Learning, we believe that education is more than just what happens in a classroom—it’s about the relationships we build, the values we uphold, and the care we provide every day. That’s why the Early Childhood Australia (ECA) Code of Ethics is a cornerstone of our approach. This guiding document supports our team in making thoughtful, respectful, and professional decisions in all aspects of our work—with children, families, colleagues, and the broader community.
What Is the ECA Code of Ethics?
The ECA Code of Ethics is a set of principles developed by Early Childhood Australia, the nation’s peak advocacy body for young children and those who care for and educate them. It provides early childhood professionals with a clear ethical framework to support complex decision-making and promote a shared understanding of professional integrity.
More than just a list of rules, the Code is a living document—one that evolves alongside our sector and supports us in navigating everyday challenges with empathy, consistency, and purpose.
Why Ethics Matter in Early Childhood Education
In the fast-paced world of early childhood education, ethical practice helps us stay grounded. The Code of Ethics guides us in ensuring that children’s rights and wellbeing always come first, while also fostering strong partnerships with families, meaningful collaboration with colleagues, and a deep commitment to the broader community and environment.
Importantly, it gives us a shared language to discuss ethical dilemmas and a common foundation to reflect on our work together.
The Core Principles We Live By
The ECA Code of Ethics is based on fundamental values—many of which align with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. These principles include:
- Respecting the uniqueness of every child and recognising their rights, capabilities, and potential to shape their world.
- Honouring children as active participants in society, not just passive recipients of care.
- Valuing inclusive partnerships with families and communities, acknowledging the important role they play in a child’s development.
- Championing fairness, equity, and democracy, ensuring every child feels a sense of belonging.
- Creating relationship-centred environments that prioritise trust, connection, and respect.
- Recognising the vital role of play in supporting learning, development, and wellbeing.
- Promoting research-informed practice, professional reflection, and continuous learning.
- These principles are woven into our everyday decisions, from how we plan learning environments to how we communicate with families.
Our Educators’ Ethical Commitments
The ECA Code of Ethics also outlines clear commitments for educators, which we proudly uphold at Sprouts Early Learning:
- Commitment to Children: We put children first—creating safe, inclusive, and engaging environments that support their agency and promote learning through play.
- Commitment to Families: We treat every family with respect and warmth, regardless of their background or circumstances, and actively foster strong, trusting partnerships.
- Commitment to Colleagues: We value collaboration, sharing knowledge and supporting one another to raise the standard of care across our entire team.
- Commitment to the Profession: We take our professional responsibilities seriously—upholding the values of the sector and striving for ongoing learning and excellence.
- Commitment to Community and Society: We recognise that our role extends beyond the classroom. We advocate for children’s rights, support community wellbeing, and act as stewards of a sustainable future.
At Sprouts Early Learning, the ECA Code of Ethics is more than a document—it’s a daily promise.
A promise to uphold the dignity of every child.
A promise to work in partnership with families.
A promise to be thoughtful, ethical, and passionate professionals.
By choosing Sprouts, you’re joining a community that’s committed to care, integrity, and the best outcomes for every child.
To learn more about the ECA Code of Ethics, visit earlychildhoodaustralia.org.au.
