Applications for Round 2 of Cert III upskill program are now open

Applications for the second round of the Certificate III Upskill Support Program (CUSP) are now open, supporting Victorian educators who currently hold a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care and who want to upskill to a Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care in 2024.

First launched in December 2023, the program offers financial support of up to $7,000 (before tax) to support students to cover cost-of-living expenses while studying and working, particularly while on placement.

There has already been high demand for the program from educators. Tayla Catlin, who has worked in early childhood education for 6 years since completing her Certificate III is one of many who has taken advantage of the opportunity. 

Ms Caitlin, who is based in the Gippsland region, works in a small service which assists vulnerable and at-risk families.

She hopes that participating in the program will allow her to build on her training in supporting children with additional needs and those impacted by trauma.

“The scholarship will enable me to have further support, to have study time, and to complete placement while working as a room leader,” Ms Caitlin said.

The program is one of a range of financial support options available to help Victorian’s to study and work in early childhood. It’s all about supporting educators to build their skills so they are in the best position to take on leadership roles and other professional opportunities.

Applications for Round 2 close on Monday 15 April 2024, and should be made through the Client Portal. Places are limited, and prompt applications are encouraged. 

Prior to submitting applications, prospective candidates are encouraged to read the CUSP Program Guidelines to check eligibility.

For more information, refer to Financial support to study and work in early childhood.

For further enquiries, contact Busy At Work (who administer the program on behalf of the Victorian department):

• phone: 1300 161 396
• email: [email protected]