Child Care Courses

What is a childcare worker?

A childcare worker, also called an early childhood educator or early childhood teacher, is a person responsible for the care and supervision of children in places like preschools, daycare centres, and kindergartens, as well as hospitals, creches, and women’s shelters. 

Early childhood educators are knowledgeable about the different stages of child development and can provide recreational and educational activities that support children at different stages in their lives. 

What does a childcare worker do?

Depending on their place of work, a childcare worker may be responsible for supporting children throughout the day with recreational activities and childhood education and care.

The daily duties of a childcare worker may involve:

• Preparing materials & equipment for early childhood education
• Managing children’s behaviour
• Planning & coordinating children’s daily activities
• Entertaining kids with recreational activities & games
• Ensuring the safety of children in their care
• Helping children with homework
• Providing meals
• Supporting children’s social development
• Changing nappies & potty training
• Helping children with basic hygiene tasks
• Communicating with parents & guardians to give them updates on their children’s progress and wellbeing. 

How do I become a childcare worker?

You must meet certain requirements in order to work in childcare or early childhood education in Australia. 

These requirements are:

• Studying one of the following childcare courses: 
  • Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care
  • Certificate IV in School-Age Education and Care
  • Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care
• Working with children check 
• Police check
• First aid training 

Enrol in child care courses online

Your career in early childhood education can start sooner than you think! Child care courses can be studied online, offering flexibility that fits into your current schedule and allowing you to start preparing for your future career while transitioning from your current work or family life. 

Consider enrolling in one of the following online child care courses to start your career in early childhood education:  

Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care

This is a nationally recognised qualification that allows you to kickstart your career with entry-level roles in early childhood education and care. In this online childcare course you will be equipped with the knowledge you need to provide secure, encouraging, and meaningful care to children.

Topics covered in this course include:

• Providing care for children
• Understanding the early childhood development of children
• Nurturing babies & toddlers
• Providing experience to support children’s play & learning
• Meeting legal & ethical obligations in children’s education & care
• Identifying and responding to children & young people at risk

The Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care also includes a 160 hour work placement which will give you the opportunity to practise your childcare skills in a real life setting under the care of a supervisor. 

With the Certificate III you can enjoy a career as a:

• Childcare Assistant
• Early Childhood Educator
• Long Day Care Educator
• Kindergarten Assistant

Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care

The online Diploma is perfect for those who want to advance their career in early childhood, build management skills, and prepare for leadership positions. You will develop the necessary skills and knowledge to nurture and care for children, with a focus on play-based learning. You will also learn to become competent in assisting children to achieve their developmental milestones periodically. Finally, you will be equipped with entry-level management skills that allow you to lead and supervise staff and volunteers within an early childhood education and care program. 

Topics covered in this course include:

• Developing teams & individuals
• Using an approved learning framework
• Nurturing creativity in children
• Fostering positive & respectful interactions and behaviour in children
• Implementing strategies for the inclusion of all children
• Reflecting on & improving your own professional practice
• Developing & using emotional intelligence
• Working in partnership with children’s families
• Responding to grievances & complaints about the service

The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care includes 280 hours of work placement which will give you the opportunity to practise your childcare skills in a real life setting under the care of a supervisor. 

The Diploma is available for those who have already completed a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care and will open you up to various long-term career opportunities such as: 

• Childcare Educator
• Lead Educator
• Educational Leader
• Group Leader
• Assistant Director

How long does it take to finish a childcare course?

The Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care is self-paced and can be completed in around 18 months, though the exact time will vary depending on the provider. It also requires 160 hours of work placement in a childcare facility. 

The Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care is also self-paced and can be completed in around 18 months. The work placement required for the Diploma is around 280 hours. 

How much does a childcare course cost?

The cost of a Certificate III or Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care will depend on the registered training organisations you enrol with. Many institutions offer payment plans and may even offer a discount for some students. 

What makes being a childcare educator a good career choice?

A career in early childhood education and care is perfect for anyone who loves working with kids. It is incredibly rewarding to support and nurture children through their different stages of childhood development and know that you are making a difference for parents who are unable to manage work and raising children. 

It’s also a very fun job that allows you to embrace the lighter side of life as you are surrounded by children who are discovering the world for the first time and embracing their creativity and imagination. You can play and explore with the children as you support them through recreational activities. This makes it perfect for people who don’t like working at a desk all day! 

A career in early childhood education and care is also very fluid and changing. No two days will be the same as the children you are supporting grow up and develop. You will see personalities emerging and changing, new children coming and going, and lots of little changes that keep the job exciting and adventurous. 

Why work in early childhood education and care?

Besides the joy you get out of supporting children in their growth and development, there are many benefits of becoming a childcare provider. These include:

Seamless career progression

The early childhood education and care industry provides exciting options for career growth and advancement. There are various courses and diplomas that can be taken on when you’re ready that allow you to continue advancing in your career. 

Flexible working hours

Many early childhood education and care providers offer comfortable working hours that include splitting shifts, starting early, or finishing late depending on your availability. You also have the opportunity to start your own daycare facility at home and work from home if you so choose.

Growing industry

The early childcare education industry is constantly booming and will always be in demand. There will always be children that require education, support, and care, and as a result you can enjoy consistent work year after year. There are also excellent pay scales and exceptional working conditions across the industry.

Easy access

It’s not difficult to start your career in early childhood services. Basic qualifications are easy and quick to complete, and study options are flexible. You can study early childhood education online and fit it into your current lifestyle easily. 

Childcare courses – Summary

A career in the early childhood industry is fulfilling, flexible, and always in demand. If you’re looking to start your rewarding career with tremendous growth opportunities across Australia, have a look at our online Childcare Courses and start your new journey today! 

FAQ

1. 1. Can I do childcare without doing a course?
      In Australia, you must have a minimum of Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care before you can start working in childcare.

   2. How long is a childcare course in Australia?
      The Certificate III and Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care are self-paced courses that can each be completed in around 180 months. Both involve a work placement between 160 – 280 hours.

   3. How much does a childcare worker earn in Australia?
      The average salary for Early Childhood Educators is around $55,000 per year. The amount you earn will vary depending on your experience. Entry-level positions start at $50,000 per year and a high pay range is around $65,000 per year.