Victorian Early Years Learning and Development Framework.
The Victorian Early Years Learning and Development Framework (VEYLDF) provides a guide for early childhood professionals in supporting children’s holistic development.
VEYLDF
Understanding the Victorian Early Years Learning and Development Framework (VEYLDF).
Early childhood education helps shape children’s future learning, development, and wellbeing. In Victoria, the Victorian Early Years Learning and Development Framework (VEYLDF) provides a structured approach to support children from birth to eight years old. By aligning with national education standards, the VEYLDF ensures that children receive high-quality early learning experiences that foster their growth in a range of developmental areas.
What is the VEYLDF and why does it matter?
The Victorian Early Years Learning and Development Framework (VEYDLF) is designed to guide early childhood professionals in supporting children’s holistic development. It recognises that learning begins from birth and is influenced by a child’s relationships, environment, and experiences. The framework is built upon evidence-based principles that promote children’s health, wellbeing, and cognitive growth.
By integrating the VEYLDF into early childhood education settings, educators can provide consistent, high-quality learning experiences that help children build a strong foundation in identity, community, communication, and critical thinking. The framework also aligns with the national Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) to support Victorian early childhood education that meets Australian standards.
The VEYDLF practice principles offer educators a roadmap for effective teaching and learning strategies. These principles reflect the latest research on childhood development and education, promoting an inclusive and engaging approach to learning where children have a strong sense of identity, are connected with and contribute to their world, have a strong sense of wellbeing and are effective communicators – while being confident and involved learners.
The VEYLDF practice principles for learning and development
How the principles guide early childhood educators
Educators can apply these principles to create meaningful learning experiences for children:
- Reflective practice: Encouraging educators to critically evaluate practice, resulting in continuous improvement in early childhood education
- Partnerships with families: Involving parents and extended family in their child’s learning journey strengthens a child’s educational experience. This can be done through regular communication, parent-teacher meetings, and shared learning experiences. Some families might find it difficult to engage with early learning services for a variety of reasons. This requires early childhood professionals to use multiple communication methods to overcome barriers
- High expectations for every child: Recognising each child’s potential and fostering a supportive environment where they can thrive helps promote confidence and resilience
- Respectful relationships and responsive engagement: Building strong connections with children and understanding their individual needs creates a safe and nurturing learning space
- Equity and diversity: Valuing and respecting cultural diversity supports children's sense of identity and promotes learning and development outcomes
- Assessment for learning and development: Observing and documenting children’s progress allows educators to tailor learning activities to individual strengths and needs.
The VEYLDF outcomes: supporting children’s growth
The VEYDLF outcomes define key areas of development that educators should focus on to support children’s learning and wellbeing.
Children develop a strong sense of self, confidence, and belonging, which allows them to engage with their environment in a meaningful way.
By fostering relationships with others, children learn to contribute to their communities, develop social skills, and build a sense of belonging.
This outcome focuses on children’s physical, emotional, and mental wellbeing, ensuring they have the resilience and self-regulation skills necessary for healthy development.
The VEYLDF supports cognitive, creative, and problem-solving skills by encouraging curiosity and a love for learning through play-based and structured activities.
Language, literacy, and non-verbal communication are key aspects of this outcome, helping children develop the skills to express themselves effectively.
Why the VEYLDF is essential for Victorian educators
The VEYDLF is a valuable tool for early childhood educators in Victoria, as it:
- Provides a clear structure for planning and delivering high-quality early learning experiences
- Supports individualised learning by recognising that every child develops at their own pace
- Encourages collaboration between educators, families, and communities
- Promotes lifelong learning skills that help children transition smoothly into primary school and beyond.
By using the VEYLDF framework, educators can ensure that they are providing children with the best possible start in life.
Supporting resources for implementing the VEYLDF
A range of resources are available to help educators apply the VEYLDF in early childhood settings. These include The VEYLDF Practice Guides, which offer practical examples and strategies for implementing the framework and the Victorian Department of Education website, which provides training materials and professional development opportunities for educators.
Educators can use assessment and planning tools, such as observation checklists and learning journals, to track children’s progress. They can also engage in peer discussions, workshops, and mentoring programs to enhance their understanding of the VEYLDF.
Expanding the framework: The Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF)
While the VEYLDF is specific to Victoria, it aligns with the national Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF). The EYLF provides a broader framework that aims to provide consistency in early childhood education across Australia. By integrating both frameworks, educators can maintain high standards while catering to the unique needs of Victorian children.
By understanding and applying the VEYLDF, early childhood professionals can create enriching early learning experiences that support children’s growth, wellbeing, and future success.