Children benefit most when their teachers have attained high levels of formal education and specialized early childhood professional preparation (Chandler, 2019). Chandler, asks the emerging educator to consider the following questions: what characteristics contribute to a competent early childhood professional? What personal and professional attributes are desirable for RECEs? Chapters 7 and 3 of the textbook, discuss the cornerstones of professional practice and the importance of self-awareness, reflection and continuous learning to build these competencies. This reflective practice is necessary for educators to build and shape their professional career and secure employment within the EC sector. Potential employers will expect an applicant to be able to clearly articulate their values and core competencies obtained through their education and first-hand experience 'working' with children, families and the community. Employers will also asses the applicants' personal attributes and motivation to determine whether there is a good fit with the organization. Furthermore, both employers and the College of Early Childhood Education recognize the value of continuous professional learning as a benchmark of professional growth. The Professional Development course promotes the importance of this continuous learning through the activities that you are expected to participate in and complete. 'Many educators see leadership as something that belongs to great people, not as something they can achieve themselves' (Chandler). Yet your commitment to and development of your emerging role as a leader is both critical and necessary. As well, "When educators become child advocates, they move their view beyond the boundaries of their immediate employment situations into the greater society" (Chandler, 2019) An important step is to embark upon this leadership role as well as the professional responsibility of advocacy. Purpose: This assignment requires you to reflect upon your self directed learning, volunteerism, advocacy, field practicums and employment opportunities, demonstrating the growth of your early childhood professional knowledge, competencies and values. The exercise of creating a data base (inventory) of competencies can prepare you for future employment interviews. You will be able to respond to the interviewee with more thoughtful descriptions of your skillsets. The CECE document Reflective Practice and Self-Directed Learning (2014) is invaluable. You use the following resources to support your assignment: Administering for Quality 6th edition textbook chapters 3, 7 and 10 College of ECE's Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics College of ECE Self Assessment Tool CECE Practice Note on Professionalism other resources that you deem appropriate. Criteria for the assignment: 1. write an inventory which includes the following headings: a. examples of your continuous professional learning and (include dates and locations) b. detailed highlights of competencies with (dates and locations) developed through: volunteering, international work and/or paid work experiences that demonstrate your knowledge and understanding of the key professional competencies for working with children c. detailed highlights of your volunteerism or praxis (activities, events) that illustrate your commitment to community, and/or social justice values and/or advocacy d. summary of relevant accomplishments/skills (e.g. recognition of achievements, spoken languages, computer literacy, etc.) e. identify gaps in your knowledge and competencies, then develop a 6-month plan to acquire more expertise to address these gaps within the early childhood sector