Local partnership aims to boost ECEC workforce numbers

A partnership in the Victorian community of Robinvale is hoping to provide a solution to the increasing demand for early childhood education and care (ECEC) while also combatting persistent workforce shortages. 

The partnership, including Sunraysia Mallee Ethnic Communities Council (SMECC), Robinvale Euston Workforce Network (REWN), Swan Hill Rural City Council, Our Place Robinvale, Robinvale District Health Service, SuniTAFE, the Y Ballarat and Robinvale College, has seen providers band together to offer interested residents of Robinvale the opportunity and support needed to undertake early childhood studies.

SMECC, with the support of Robinvale Our Place, have assisted thirteen people to undertake a free pre-accreditation program, designed to support participants to build essential skills prior to undertaking early childhood studies.

While the program has been successful, participants have at times faced major constraints when they look to enroll in formal studies in Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC).

Despite the success of this stage of the program, participants may face major constraints such as funding the course, forgoing paid employment to undertake placement and travelling out of town for studies when they look to enroll in formal studies in ECEC.

“This is about a community getting together and solving this shortage, for the benefit of everyone,” Council’s Director Cultural and Community Services, Bruce Myers said.

“Having more trained individuals will make a significant impact on addressing the skilled shortages in early childhood in the Robinvale area.”

For Robinvale Our Place Manager, Cindy Hinterholzl, the program has been a successful one, whoever she is concerned that the program isn’t going far enough. 

“We would really love to see the program through for our participants, and for the community of Robinvale to have a healthy supply of trained early childhood educators would really ease childcare woes for many families,” Ms Hinterholzl said.

“To keep this momentum going, we are seeking local businesses or individuals that may be interested in providing assistance and investing in the future of Robinvale,” she continued.

“Ideally, we want to be in a position where we can ask our participants what they need from us. Whether it be financial support or even through the access of a computer to enable them to complete assignments.”

Businesses who are interested in financial sponsorship should contact either Cindy Hinterholzl, Our Place Robinvale 0414 695 723, or Glenn Stewart, Robinvale Euston Workforce Network 0428 347 151.