KU Annual Report 2012 | Page 12

Making the KU Difference Through innovation KU Corrimal East Preschool Staff KU Corrimal East Preschool The staff team at KU Corrimal East Preschool has, over many years, shown a commitment to engage with a number of innovative projects, and work collaboratively with the families and the wider community to raise interest in these projects and motivate others. Some of the projects the staff have been involved in include: the Early Start Initiative with Wollongong University, which is researching the use of technology as a means to promoting language and social connections with remote and vulnerable families; the KU Early Language and Literacy Initiative (ELLI) project which assists children and their families with their language and literacy skills; and the KU Sustainability Pilot Project, which has a focus on sustainable practices within an early childhood education context. Recently, the team have worked passionately in not only engaging with the Circle of Security with Dr Robyn Dolby, but sharing the vision and practice with other educators in the Illawarra region, and encouraging engagement and sharing with families. The educators at this service reflect the inspiration and commitment to innovative practices that leads to authentic collaboration with families and children. This strengthens family involvement in their children’s learning and promotes ongoing reflective practices. Research Projects KU continues to attract and support many applications from research students, tertiary institutions and individuals to undertake their work in KU services. Areas of research that were reflected in 2012 include intentional teaching, inclusion of children with disabilities, infants and toddlers, and sustainability practices. KU are currently collaborating in two major partnerships: • Investigating Shared Experiences in Resolving Conflict and Managing Emotions with Dr Robyn Dolby; and • Interactive Technology in Early Childhood settings to particularly support families and children in low socio economic environments, indigenous populations and disadvantaged communities with University of Wollongong. KU has also partnered with two universities in longitudinal studies which are seeking funding. 12 KU Children’s Services