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Early childhood education jobs

Are you interested in working in the early childhood education sector?

Perhaps you have a passion for working with children, or are seeking a career change and want to explore the job opportunities available in your local area. 

Whatever your reasons may be, there are many different Early childhood education jobs near me available for those with the right qualifications and skills.

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Early childhood education jobs

When looking for early childhood education jobs there is a recognition of the essential service provided by the early childhood education sector in Australia and the reputation and recognition they accrue is building fast.

Early childhood education educators play a central role in the growth of children, ensuring their well-being, and nurturing their development in a safe and healthy  environment.

The demand for early childhood education jobs, including teachers and educators, is strong, with excellent remuneration and career prospects.

Four reasons to choose early childhood education jobs as a career

1

Make a positive impact

Participating in early childhood education jobs is a fulfilling and enjoyable calling. It provides educators with the opportunity to make a substantial impact on the lives of the children they care for and in society overall.
2

Every day is a new adventure

As we are aware, children are continually growing and developing. Each day brings new challenges and opportunities, ensuring a dynamic and exciting journey, not just for the children but also for educators in early childhood education jobs.
3

Collaborate with colleagues

Childcare professionals collaborate in teams in early childhood education jobs within their classrooms and across the service. This creates opportunities to build new friendships and gain insights from a variety of experiences that may not be accessible in desk job roles.
4

Personal and professional growth

Recent years have seen significant enhancements in compensation, working conditions, and professional development for childcare providers. These improvements lay the groundwork for personal and professional growth in early childhood education jobs.

Where are the opportunities in the early childhood education sector?

Long day care

Long day care stands as the primary employer for early childhood education jobs near me. LDC centres can be independently operated or managed by larger organisations. They offer care services to 3 months old children up until the year before school. Educators provide education and childcare, often accommodating trainees and work experience opportunities as well.

Family day care

In family day care, children are cared for in the homes of educators. These early childhood education jobs offer flexible and personalised care options, in the home of an educator. Family day care early childhood education jobs allow educators to make a significant impact on children’s development while enjoying the benefits of a home-based work environment.

Outside school hours care

Outside school hours care, also known as OSHC, are early childhood education jobs that cater to the needs of school-aged children outside regular school hours. It includes before school, after school and vacation care programs. OSHC educators contribute to the educational and recreational needs of children, making an impact on their lives and supporting working families.

Kindergarten / Preschool

Preschool, also referred to as kindergarten, is an early childhood education setting designed for children before they enter formal schooling. The curriculum focuses on school readiness and is usually led by early childhood teachers and supported by educators. They have open and close times aligned with school systems, and have holidays that are the same as schools too.

Early childhood education jobs qualifications

The main qualifications to be an educator are vocational in nature which means that the courses are relatively short and delivered through training colleges such as TAFEs.

1. Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CHC30121).

The Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CHC30121) remains the foundational qualification for early childhood education jobs, providing essential knowledge and skills for working in the childcare sector.  Certificate III holders usually work as assistant educators, contributing to the early childhood education field under the supervision of higher-level professionals.

2. Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CHC50121).

The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CHC50121) is an advanced qualification for early childhood education jobs. Building upon foundational knowledge from the Certificate III, diploma holders are qualified to work as lead educators or room leaders, taking on more responsibilities and leadership roles in the field of early childhood education.

3. Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood) or Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood and Primary)

A Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood) is a comprehensive undergraduate degree program specifically focused on early childhood education. It equips individuals with the knowledge and skills to create developmentally appropriate learning experiences, design curriculum, implement effective teaching strategies, assess children’s progress, and support overall growth and development in early childhood settings.

4. Certificate IV in School Age Education and Care

The Certificate IV in School Age Education and Care is the primary qualification for professionals seeking early childhood education jobs in Out of School Hours Care (OSHC). This qualification specifically addresses the needs and developmental stages of school-aged children. Completing this certificate enhances the skill set for those interested in early childhood education jobs catering to school-aged children.

How much will you be paid?

According to the Modern Award, a Certificate III qualified educator can expect to receive hourly rates ranging from $24.38 to $26.42, while a Diploma qualified educator may receive between $26.42 to $30.05 per hour, depending on their level of experience. Qualified teachers can anticipate salaries ranging from $35 to $45 per hour.

In addition to these rates, there are allowances available for educators who take on higher duties, such as the education leader allowance.

It’s important to note that specific childcare jobs near me wage rates may vary depending on factors such as the employer, location, and individual circumstances. Always check the Fair Work website for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding pay rates.

How to find early childhood education jobs

Early childhood education jobs boards

There are several dedicated websites that specifically focus on early childhood education jobs, providing job seekers with a high-quality platform and access to reputable employers. One example is The Sector Jobs, which is part of The Sector – Early Education News, the most popular and visited news websites in the early childhood education jobs sector.

Local childcare centres

A great starting point for finding early childhood education jobs is to explore opportunities in your local community. There are often long day care centres, preschools, kindergartens, family day care services, and outside school hours care services nearby. Don’t hesitate to reach out and inquire about any early childhood education jobs openings they may have.

Counsellors at TAFE

Career counsellors at TAFE (Technical and Further Education), RTOs (Registered Training Organizations), or universities can be valuable resources. They can provide a list of contacts for securing early childhood education jobs placements or even more permanent positions at services in your area. 

Personal and professional networks

Don’t be afraid to use your personal and professional networks. Reach out to friends, family members, or acquaintances who may have connections in early childhood education jobs. They might be able to introduce you to centres or organisations that have job vacancies and are seeking qualified educators.