Class of 2021 encouraged to take on a ‘future proof’ career in ECEC

A new national campaign, launched today and appearing on YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat and Facebook, will encourage those graduating from high school to consider a career in early childhood education and care (ECEC). 

The next chapter of the popular Big Roles in Little Lives campaign promotes the incredible impact early childhood professionals can have to those who are leaving school, outlining the special position ECEC holds in a time of high career uncertainty in the wake of COVID-19 disruptions to traditional post school roles in retail and hospitality. 

Early Learning and Care Council of Australia (ELACCA) CEO Elizabeth Death said the campaign seeks to inform teens that ECEC professionals “have never been more important” for Australian children and families, and the economy more broadly. 

“These are roles with purpose, satisfaction and great career prospects,” she added. 

Young Australians have been significantly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, with youth unemployment rates more than double that of the general population, making a steady career option such as ECEC more appealing. 

In contrast to the challenges of securing roles in other industries and sectors, “there is a great opportunity for young people in the booming sector of early learning and care,” Ms Death explained, outlining the Australian Government forecast showing that demand for early learning and care will create an extra 23,900 jobs for early childhood professionals by 2025. This forecasting includes educators at every level, from Certificate III graduates up to degree-qualified early childhood teachers.

“Now is the perfect time for young people to enrol at a university or vocational education provider to study early childhood education in 2022,” she said.

“A career in early learning means experiencing the deep satisfaction of undertaking genuinely important work, along with career advancement and leadership opportunities.” 

To find out more, choose your own #CareerAdventure at www.elacca.org.au/students