Online only - link available after Eventbrite Registration is completed
Summary:An interdisciplinary dialogue with key stakeholders, aiming to contribute to the improvement of early years literacy levels in Tasmania.
The Roundtables Overview
Literacy plays a fundamental role in life. Research confirms that the development of literacy begins in the early years of life and is an important focus for children and families – from conception and prior to transition to formal schooling – enhancing opportunities for strong beginnings and successful outcomes. There is a current spotlight on early years literacy (and literacy more broadly) at global, national and local levels. This is evident in the State of Tasmania, with social, cultural, political and economic factors being considered in the prioritisation and development of policies for improving literacy outcomes for all children and adults residing in Tasmania. However, there is a consensus regarding the need to better understand the specific strengths and barriers among Tasmanian communities which can impact the effectiveness of diverse, place-based approaches to literacy.
In collaboration with our philanthropic partners from the Cuthill Family Foundation, the University of Tasmania’s School of Education is excited to present the Cuthill Family Foundation Literacy Roundtables event to be held between August 29-30th at the University of Tasmania’s Inveresk campus in Launceston, Tasmania.
This event aims to contribute to the interdisciplinary dialogue to improve literacy levels in Tasmania with a specific focus on early years literacies. It will bring together early years literacy researchers, educators, key Tasmanian stakeholders, national organisations, policymakers, allied health professionals and community-based literacy initiatives to discuss and unpack early years literacy for strong beginnings. It is anticipated that this interdisciplinary and collaborative event will offer important contributions to the early years' literacy context. This event will support educators, services, policymakers and the broader community and provide new insights into literacy learning and outcomes for young children and their families in Tasmania.
For more information, please see our UTAS story – Literacy Roundtables to encourage Tasmanian solutions (published June 27, 2023)
The Cuthill Early Years Literacy Roundtables Program
Roundtable 1 - Tuesday 29th August
Early years literacy for strong beginnings in Tasmania
Sessions
9.00am - 10.45am
11.15am - 1.15pm
Roundtable 2 - Wednesday 30th August
Knowing the world through storytelling: exploring place-based and diverse literacies for enhanced literacy outcomes in Tasmania
Sessions
9.00am - 10.35am
11.15am - 1.15pm
The Cuthill Family Foundation
About Us
The Cuthill Family Foundation is an independent philanthropic trust established by Harvey and Suzanne Cuthill. The Board now comprises three generations of Cuthill family members. The Cuthill Family Foundation is based in Tasmania and has an ongoing commitment to engage with local projects.
Vision
* Disadvantage is no longer a barrier for those seeking a quality education.
* Tasmania becomes a global health research destination, with leading clinical services for its communities
* Australians respect and are accountable for their environmental impact and live sustainably
* The Tasmanian Arts sector thrives through the support of local projects.
Aim to support
* Merit based equity scholarships and bursaries to ensure students can access quality education
* Health research and practice in Tasmania
* Community based climate solutions and effective campaigns and
* Sustainability in the Arts sector.
