Samantha shares her story of life after ECEC, supporting families who are struggling

A common question in the early childhood education and care (ECEC) community is “what else can I do with my ECEC qualifications and experience?”

 

In the piece below Samantha Lawson outlines her transition from working at Horsham Uniting Early Learning to a new role as an Integrated Family Services (IFS) Worker.

 

She credits her time in the ECEC sector with inspiring her to continue to find a way to support families who are experiencing challenges, and with an understanding that for all families, but particularly those who are vulnerable, building a sense of trust is crucial.

 

When families from the early learning service were referred to additional support services, Samantha found herself wanting to make sure they were being properly cared for. 

 

“Working in Family Services you use different strategies to build that bond and relationship with the families and help them to open up,” she explained.

 

“Some families have gone through lots of trauma or are just dealing with everyday struggles. From intake to closure, to seeing the development of the families throughout those weeks is very rewarding.”

 

“I value being able to really assist them outside of childcare and working more with parents rather than just the children themselves.”

 

In her new role, Ms Lawson works with people from a variety of professional backgrounds including social work and community services, as well as those who have come from more corporate backgrounds and who now have a desire to work in roles which really make a difference.

 

“Everyone brings something interesting to the role,” she explained. “It’s great to see different people’s point of views, how they have learnt things and what they have been through.”

 

While no formal qualifications are required to become an IFS worker, Samantha says her time in ECEC gave her a number of transferable skills, such as an ability to connect with people, and a willingness to learn and develop.

 

To learn more about being an IFS worker please see here.