Bicultural Support for Occasional Care Services
“Our Service has utilised Bicultural
Support for many years, since its
inception, and can highly recommend
the support provided. It is so much
more than just an opportunity to
interpret a particular language
or a tokenistic foray into another
culture. All children benefit by the
understanding that “difference” is
“normal” and that we all share more
of the same traits than any
variety noticed.”
Rosemary, Caterpillar House
Occasional Child Care Assoc Inc.
What is Bicultural Support?
• Bicultural Support is a unique human resource that
offers language and cultural support to children,
families and educators.
• We provide support in-person, over the phone and
by email.
• The program also promotes diversity, inclusion and
cultural competence in early childhood settings.
• Part of the Australian Government’s Inclusion and
Professional Support Program, it is FREE for Occasional
Care Centres across NSW.
• Bicultural Support Workers visit education and care
services across the state. They can come to your
Occasional Care service.
How can Bicultural Support help YOU?
• Are you interested in introducing diverse cultures
and languages into your Occasional Care Centres?
• Would you like help running multicultural and
diversity activities?
NSW Professional Support Co-ordinator
Bicultural Support in NSW is delivered by Ethnic Community Services Co-operative on behalf of Children’s Services Central, the NSW Professional Support Co-ordinator.
The Inclusion and Professional Support Program is funded by the Australian Government Department of Social Services.
“The particular child/children
with the language/culture of the
Bicultural Support Worker blossoms
with confidence in the glow of the
programs’ current focus on their
inclusion. Our families are highly
appreciative that we have made the
effort to learn about their individual
needs and wants and concerns; and
that their child has been exposed to
an inclusive environment. Our staff
have benefited by the extra “hands
on deck” and also a sounding board
for sensitive programing ideas for
particular children and groups. This
learning lasts long after the support
worker has left”
Rosemary, Caterpillar House
Occasional Child Care Assoc Inc.
• Would you like help developing multicultural
programming ideas?
• Would you and your children like to learn more about
Aboriginal culture?
• Would you like assistance communicating with
children and families who speak a different language?
• Would having someone explain routines in their home
language make culturally and linguistically diverse
children feel more comfortable and included?
• Do you need support to build your confidence to
deliver diverse and inclusive programming?
• Are you aware of the diverse resources and
professional development opportunities that are
available to support inclusive practices in Occasional
Care centres?
How to access Bicultural Support
• Complete the “Request for Bicultural Support Form”
(you can find it on our website).
• Work with your Educational Leader and Inclusion
Support Facilitator (ISF) to develop an Inclusion
Improvement Plan for your service.
• Email both forms to: [email protected]
• Make sure that you speak to your ISF about
your application!
Bicultural Support Activities
•
Music and Movement
•
Library/Listening
•
Dramatic Play
•
Outdoor Learning
•
Sand and Water Play
•
Cooking/Kitchen
•
Visual Arts
CONTACT US
Phone: Email: Web: 02 9569 1288
[email protected]
ECSC.org.au
facebook.com/biculturalsupport