Blake Stewart

Background

About Blake Stewart

With over 13 years of experience in early childhood education, I am committed to building inclusive, responsive systems where all children, particularly those with disabilities, developmental differences, and neurodivergence, can realise their potential. My work is grounded in social justice, systems thinking, and a belief in the power of community-led change.Some of the highlights of my career have taken place during my time at Reimagine Australia, where I had the privilege of leading and co-leading a number of national initiatives aimed at strengthening inclusive early childhood systems. This included working across policy, advocacy, and practice to ensure that the voices of children, families, and practitioners remained central to reform.Key projects included co-leading the national review of the Early Childhood Intervention (ECI) Code of Ethics, shaping the CHILDKIND National Framework for Inclusive Early Childhood Supports, and facilitating the CHILDKIND Community of Practice, which now engages over educators, allied health professionals, and families across Australia. I also led the development of several high-impact submission papers and consultation processes that informed national policy conversations on inclusive practice, developmental delay, and foundational supports.This work reflected a deep commitment to sector collaboration, family-centred design, and evidence-informed practice—anchored in the belief that meaningful change happens when systems listen to those they are designed to support.Alongside this, I have worked as a lecturer and mentor at the University of Wollongong, the Ikon Institute of Australia, and Southern Cross University. These roles have allowed me to stay closely connected to research and practice, support the professional growth of emerging educators, and contribute to the next generation of teacher in early childhood education.I am also a published author, with Including Children with Disability or Developmental Delay (Early Childhood Australia, 2024) and Supporting Children with Disability, Developmental Difference, and Neurodivergence (AMBA Press, 2025). My writing reflects a strong commitment to translating evidence into practical, accessible guidance that supports real-world impact.Recognised with the National Excellence in Teaching Award in 2019 and as a finalist for the National Leader of the Year Award in 2023, I continue to focus on work that strengthens connection, equity, and inclusion across early childhood systems.