Dean awarded Bloch Distinguished Career Award in early childhood education

The Faculty of Education is proud to celebrate Professor Marek Tesar, Dean of Education, who has been awarded the Bloch Distinguished Career Award at the recent Meeting of Reconceptualizing Early Childhood Education (RECE) in Chile.

^{Professor Marek Tesar}

Dean of Education awarded Bloch Distinguished Career Award in early childhood education

A prestigious international honour

This accolade is the highest honour offered by the society and recognises senior scholars whose work has made sustained and transformative contributions to reconceptualising early childhood research, practice, and theory at local, national, and international levels.

With this recognition, Prof.Tesar has become an Elder of the Society, a title reserved for those who have profoundly influenced the field.

Unanimous recognition by peers for sustained scholarly impact

The Bloch Distinguished Career Award is highly selective and is offered only through peer nomination and the endorsement of the Elders of RECE. It celebrates scholarship that has shaped critical inquiry and had a meaningful impact on early childhood education and broader educational research.

The Committee responsible for this year’s award unanimously selected Professor Tesar, citing his exceptional record as a scholar, mentor, and leader.

“To be recognised at this stage of my career, and to receive this honour from international peers whose work I deeply respect, is both humbling and moving. This recognition reflects not only my own work, but the collective efforts, conversations and collaborations that have shaped my thinking over many years,” said Prof. Tesar.

He has published more than 250 peer-reviewed works and delivered over 100 invited and keynote presentations. His scholarship spans the philosophy, sociology, and anthropology of childhood, and has made significant contributions to the fields of philosophy of education, methodology, childhood studies, and early childhood education globally.

The award acknowledges that Professor Tesar has combined intellectual rigour with a commitment to advancing the field, supporting the next generation of scholars and practitioners.

A legacy of mentorship and community building

Professor Tesar’s impact extends far beyond his publications. He is widely recognised for his mentorship of graduate students and early-career researchers, providing both academic guidance and personal support.

Former students have praised his ability to foster independent thinking while creating a safe space for experimentation and learning from mistakes. He has also championed initiatives such as the RECE Graduate Circle and Indigenous Caucus, supporting inclusion and the growth of scholarly communities.

“Mentoring and teaching teachers has always been at the heart of my work. Supporting emerging scholars and educators to take intellectual risks and find their own voices gives me enormous hope for the future of education,” said Prof. Tesar. “The impact of education is multiplied through those we teach, and I remain deeply passionate about helping the next generation shape more just, thoughtful and inclusive educational futures.”

Leadership through challenge and change

In addition to his scholarly achievements, Professor Tesar has demonstrated outstanding leadership as Chair of the RECE Steering Committee since 2018. Under his guidance, the Committee navigated the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic while sustaining and expanding the Society’s work.

Colleagues describe him as a “possibility maker,” someone who sees potential where others may not, and whose leadership blends generosity of spirit with thoughtful decision-making. His vision and dedication have been credited with strengthening RECE’s global presence and impact.

“No matter where in the world educators are teaching children and young people, there is a shared mission that connects us all,” said Prof. Tesar.

“We want every learner to have access to a rigorous education, one where enquiring minds are met with enthusiastic, thoughtful teachers who nurture curiosity, critical thinking and care. Education is deeply local, but our commitment to children’s futures is profoundly global.”

Reflections and institutional significance

Reflecting on the award, Professor Tesar expressed humility and gratitude. “This recognition reflects the collective strength of early childhood scholarship and practice and highlights the importance of research that drives meaningful change in education worldwide.”

Professor Tesar’s recognition by RECE not only honours his individual contributions but also highlights the University of Melbourne’s leadership in early childhood education.

It stands as a testament to the Faculty’s commitment to world-class scholarship, research-informed practice, and the development of future generations of educators. The award underscores ongoing influence in shaping global conversations about early childhood education and demonstrates the transformative impact of research, mentorship, and leadership in this vital field.

15 Dec 2025