What if leadership in early childhood wasn’t about having the answers, but about cultivating the courage to ask better questions—of children, educators, and ourselves? In a sector where change can feel slow, how might your voice, your email, or your conversation be the catalyst for systemic transformation? 🎙️ Episode Summary In this inspiring episode of Leading the Early Years for the Future, host Amie Fabry sits down with Ciara Conran, a passionate educational leader and advocate for the early childhood sector. Together, they explore Ciara’s journey from educator to curriculum leader across five services, delving into her commitment to play-based and inquiry-led learning. Ciara shares how her lived experience as a mother of three and a lifelong learner shapes her leadership, and how her courageous advocacy is helping influence change at both the service and systemic levels. With warmth and conviction, Ciara unpacks the power of voice, the importance of listening, and the urgency of acting on behalf of children, educators, and the future of early learning. About Ciara Conran Ciara Conran is a dynamic early childhood education leader who brings over a decade of experience to her role as a curriculum and pedagogy leader across five early learning centres. Originally from Ireland, Ciara studied Education and Training at Dublin City University before immigrating to Australia in 2014, just as the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) was gaining traction nationally. Her practice is grounded in a belief in the autonomy and capability of young children, and she champions play- and inquiry-based learning. Ciara is also a relentless advocate for sector reform—speaking at national forums, engaging directly with government ministers, and working alongside policymakers to address issues such as workforce qualifications and immigration pathways for educators. Known for her deep sense of justice, tireless energy, and commitment to elevating others, Ciara is driven by one clear purpose: ensuring all children have access to empowered educators and meaningful early learning experiences. She continues to study, mentor, and lead with an unwavering belief in the collective capacity of the sector to drive real change.