World Teachers’ Day on Friday 31 October 2025 is a chance to recognise the commitment and skill of early childhood teachers who shape the lives of children every day.
To mark the occasion, we spoke to Emma Fulton (pictured above), early childhood teacher at Connie Benn Early Learning Centre, and a 2024 Victorian Early Years Awards finalist, about her teaching journey and what makes her work so rewarding.
Emma first discovered her love for working with children as a swimming instructor in her late teens.
In 2001 she began working in an early childhood service in Adelaide, the same one she attended as a child. This sparked her interest in further studies in early childhood education.
‘I became incredibly inspired to learn more and understand the theoretical side of working with young children. I began to understand how vital the early years are,’ Emma said.
Emma moved to Melbourne and completed a Bachelor of Early Childhood Education in 2018.
Supporting every learner
Emma focuses on creating inclusive learning spaces where every child feels valued and safe.
‘Kindness, self-compassion and self-belief are truly at the core of what happens in my learning spaces, with a goal to grow emotional literacy through trust and connection,’ she said.
Emma draws on the 3 pillars of trauma-informed care — safety, connection and managing emotions — to guide her teaching.
‘There is no one-size-fits-all approach in any kindergarten cohort. I have a deep commitment to inclusive education. I value multiple teaching strategies to meet the needs of all my learners,’ she said.
Meaningful connections
For Emma, the most rewarding part of being a teacher is building strong relationships with children and families.
She finds joy in watching children build friendships, talk, laugh and learn together every day.
One moment that stands out for her is when a child in her kindergarten program had a difficult time settling in. He found it hard to say goodbye to his family and he spoke little English. He began connecting with other children through a game based on the comedic character Mr Bean.
‘He would drive the car like Mr Bean and make all the Mr Bean sounds. The joy and connection this created was so incredible to watch,’ Emma said.
‘It showed the importance of building connection through play and familiar, relatable characters.’
Developing young minds
For Emma, being an early childhood teacher means supporting children’s social and emotional development while nurturing their curiosity and creativity.
‘It means growing young hearts and minds to build a lifelong love of learning and develop the whole child through prioritising joy, imagination, and humour,’ she said.
World Teachers’ Day highlights the dedication of Emma and all early childhood teachers to guide young learners and make a lasting impact.
Find out more
For information about World Teachers’ Day and resources to help you mark the occasion at your service, refer to: World Teachers' Day 2025.
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