A personal philosophy is a short written statement that explains your beliefs, values, and approaches to teaching and learning. It’s like your “teaching compass”; it shows what matters most to you and how that shapes your practice.
Key Elements to Include
- Beliefs about children
How do you see children? (e.g., capable, curious, unique learners) - Beliefs about learning
What do you think learning looks like? (e.g., play‑based, inquiry‑driven, collaborative) - Role of the educator
What is your role? (e.g., guide, facilitator, nurturer, co‑learner) - Values and principles
What do you stand for? (e.g., inclusion, respect, sustainability, cultural pride) - Practical application
How do your beliefs show up in daily practice? (e.g., setting up environments, planning experiences, engaging families)
Simple Writing Steps
- Reflect—Jot down your core beliefs about children, learning, and teaching.
- Connect—Link those beliefs to your everyday practice.
- Write in “I” statements – Keep it personal and authentic.
- Example: “I believe children learn best through play, so I design environments that encourage exploration and creativity.”
- Keep it short — Aim for 1–2 paragraphs.
- Review and refine – Make sure it feels true to you and aligns with your centre’s philosophy.
Are All Educators Required To Write A Personal Philosopy Or Only Room Leaders and ECT's?
The Regulatory Context
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The NQF and EYLF expect services to have a service philosophy that guides practice.
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Individual personal philosophies are not a legal requirement for every educator. They are more of a professional reflection tool.
Who Usually Writes One?
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Educational Leaders and ECTs: Often asked to articulate their personal philosophy because they lead curriculum and pedagogy. Their philosophy helps shape the service’s overall approach.
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Room Leaders: Frequently encouraged to write one, as they guide practice in their rooms and mentor others.
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Cert III, Diploma, Assistants: Not mandatory, but many services encourage it. Writing a personal philosophy helps educators reflect on their values and align with the service philosophy. It can also support professional identity and growth.
It’s not a regulatory requirement for all educators to write a personal philosophy. Services must have a service philosophy, but individual philosophies are usually expected from leaders (ECTs, room leaders). However, many services encourage all educators to write one as a professional development exercise.
Examples Of Personal Philosophies
Here are some examples of personal philosophies you can use as models or inspiration. They’re short and written in “I” statements so you can adapt them to your own voice:
Example 1: Play‑Based Learning Focus
“I believe children learn best through play, exploration, and hands‑on experiences. My role as an educator is to create a safe, stimulating environment where curiosity is encouraged and creativity thrives. I value strong partnerships with families and celebrate cultural diversity, ensuring every child feels respected and included. I am committed to continuous professional growth so I can provide meaningful learning opportunities that lay the foundation for lifelong learning.”
Example 2: Inclusion and Diversity
“I see each child as a capable and unique learner. I believe in fostering an inclusive environment where differences are celebrated and all children feel valued. As an educator, I guide learning through inquiry and collaboration, tailoring experiences to diverse needs and strengths. I work closely with families and communities to build strong connections that enrich children’s learning journeys.”
Example 3: Family and Community Partnerships
“I believe families are integral partners in a child’s education. My philosophy is to build strong, respectful relationships with families and involve them in the learning process. I create environments that encourage exploration and discovery, while embedding cultural pride and sustainability into everyday practice. I see myself as a co‑learner alongside children, supporting their growth with patience, empathy, and curiosity.
Example 4: Reflective Practice
“I believe teaching is a reflective journey. Each child brings unique strengths and perspectives, and my role is to nurture these through responsive, play‑based experiences. I value ongoing reflection and professional development, ensuring my practice evolves with new insights and sector frameworks. My philosophy is grounded in respect, inclusion, and the belief that early childhood education shapes confident, compassionate citizens.”
Hints and Tips
- Keep it personal: use “I believe” and “I value.”
- Keep it short: 1–2 paragraphs is enough.
- Keep it authentic: don’t copy—adapt examples to your own beliefs.
- Keep it aligned: link your philosophy to your service’s philosophy and the EYLF.
Why It’s Helpful for Everyone
Even if not required, having a personal philosophy:
- Clarifies your teaching identity
- Guides decision‑making and planning
- Strengthens reflective practice
- Shows families and colleagues what you stand for
- Shows alignment with the service philosophy
- Helps in professional discussions, appraisals, and interviews
- Builds confidence in articulating your teaching beliefs
Further Reading
Writing A Personal Philosophy For Childcare
Guide To Writing A Personal Philosophy For Educators
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