If you are looking for a career that gives children the best start in life, early education might be for you.Quality play-based learning can have a life-changing impact on the learning and development outcomes of children. At kindergarten, children learn skills they will carry with them through their schooling and the rest of their lives.
And with more study options than ever before in early childhood education, it’s important to clarify your goals upfront and set new ones as you progress.To qualify as an early childhood educator, you’ll need to study at a TAFE or registered training organisation for a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care . You can then upskill to a Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care.
Tailored pathways and upskilling opportunities also allow participants already in the workforce to “earn as you learn” and upskill in a shorter amount of time. Leadership training is another valuable tool for taking your career to the next level, with initiatives like the Victorian Educational Leadership Program working to build understanding of contemporary early childhood leadership and teaching.From the very beginning of your career, contacts, mentors and networks are key to your professional growth. It’s smart to establish these as early as you can.
As you progress through your career, schemes such as the Coach and Mentor Training Program will make sure this focus on networking continues.The Victorian Government’s financial location incentives plus relocation supplements open the door to job opportunities that take you out of the familiar to experience other towns or regions in the state.