Box of Leadership Provocations

The Box of Leadership Provocations is a professional reflection resource tailored specifically for leaders within early childhood education and care. Developed by six of Australia's foremost early childhood experts - Anne Stonehouse, Anthony Semann, Susan Irvine, Catharine Hydon, Michelle Gujer, and Leanne Gibbs - this collection is grounded in the ECA Leadership Capability Framework and is suitable for both emerging and experienced leaders.

Containing 48 carefully crafted provocation cards, this set is organised around six key leadership capabilities. Each card poses thoughtful, challenging questions designed to inspire critical reflection, spark professional dialogue, and deepen leadership practices. Whether used individually, with colleagues, or in leadership groups, the cards offer a valuable tool for nurturing reflective leadership and enhancing the quality of education and care environments.

Leadership Capabilities Addressed:

• Leading self
• Leading others
• Leading with purpose
• Leading pedagogy and practice
• Leading community
• Leading innovation and change

Educational Benefits:

• Encourages deeper thinking and self-awareness in leadership roles
• Supports collaborative leadership and reflective team culture
• Enhances decision-making, ethical leadership, and purposeful action
• Aligns with the ECA Leadership Capability Framework to guide professional growth

Suggested Use in Educational Settings:

• Select a card weekly for discussion in leadership team meetings
• Use cards during mentoring or coaching sessions with educators
• Integrate provocations into leadership journals or professional development plans
• Facilitate workshops around each leadership capability using the cards as prompts

Product Information:

• Suitable for leaders in early childhood education and care
• Includes 48 provocation cards
• Organised under 6 leadership capabilities
• Developed by leading Australian early childhood professionals
• Published by Early Childhood Australia (ECA)