G8 ramps up school-based traineeships as workforce shortages continue

Early childhood education and care (ECEC) provider G8 Education initiated 74 school-based traineeships in Queensland last week in a measure designed to address the ongoing workforce shortages impacting the sector.

ECEC sector vacancies are at an all-time high, with 1,557 positions currently advertised online across Queensland.  On average, it currently takes 57 days to fill a vacant position, with demand expected to spike in September/October due to normal enrolment and vacancy cycles.  

As part of a bid to address the issue, G8 Education is investing heavily in its Trainee and Study Pathway programs to grow and develop its team and to bring new professionals into the sector.  

Of those who have completed the program with G8 Education and graduated with a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care, 41 per cent have gone on to permanent employment with the provider.

G8 Chief People and Transformation Officer Tabitha Pearson said the school-based program has more than doubled in size over the past two years due to workforce demands.   

Joseph Cooper, who has just started his school-based traineeship at The Learning Sanctuary Tarragindi, said he is very grateful for the opportunity to start his career in early childhood education while he is still at school.  

“I had an amazing teacher in grade three, Mr Hanson, and ever since then I’ve wanted to be a teacher,” he said.  

After only a short time at the service Joseph is confident early learning is a perfect fit for him. 

“I love watching the children interact and problem solve, and it’s a really fun and welcoming environment to work in,” he added. 

Daniela Obando has also enjoyed her foray into ECEC, having just started her school-based traineeship at Community Kids Glenella.  

“Ever since I started teaching the younger children at my Irish Dancing studio, I have fallen in love with teaching,” she said.  

“I am currently working in the toddler room, and I am enjoying the opportunity to build some really strong relationships with the children through our group and playtime.”

The fully funded two-year school-based traineeship program sees students work alongside a mentor at the centres who can assist students with their studies and development. G8 services across Queensland have accepted trainees, ranging from Cairns and Townsville down to Brisbane and the Gold Coast. 

G8 Education also offers traineeships to mature aged workers, as well as supported Diploma and Bachelor Study Pathways Programs to current employees.  

Pictured is Daniela Obando with Centre Manager, Fiona janse van Rensburg and Alex Cameron.