The education and development of children hold a lot of significance. Some would even say it comes before everything else.
Educators specialising in providing quality learning experiences for pre-school children are now in high demand. As such, childcare courses can prepare and equip you with all the needed skills in this professional field.
As a matter of fact, Australia had 339,015 children aged between 4 and 5 enrolled in pre-school programs in 2021. That’s a 1.3% increase from 2020. Additionally, 95% of the enrolled children attended the program for over 15 hours per week.
Those are substantial numbers. However, you may still be lost as to why such training courses are critical before venturing into this profession. You don’t need to fret just yet. This article will briefly examine the related aspects of such courses and the benefits they provide.
An examination of training courses for the early education sector
Childcare courses are unlike other professional training courses. They allow for a great deal of flexibility and come with numerous incentives. Besides equipping you to deal with pre-school children, these courses offer opportunities in several other settings.
Read on to know more about them.
1. Qualified training for a growing sector
Australia has seen steady growth in pre-school enrolment. The demand for qualified educators in this industry has only increased.
A course that trains you in dealing with pre-school children will set you above other individuals in the early education sector. Often, these courses also provide on-the-job training where you experience all nuances of the position first-hand.
For instance, you may be put into a program where you are asked to live with a family and take responsibility for a child.
2. Monetary compensation during training
The most inviting part about these courses is that they offer avenues to earn while you are still learning.
New applicants for the early education sector do not need any prior qualifications. Instead, they can choose to start as either a trainee or an apprentice. In doing so, individuals can simultaneously attain a nationally recognised certificate while also gaining experience.
The best part about the process is that you will be paid for your time during the apprenticeship. Additionally, these programs are available regardless of age or previous employment.
3. Subsidised course fees
There are several government-provided subsidies for such courses. For instance, the NSW Government hosts the Smart and Skilled program, which allows for lower course fees for the following courses:
- ‘CHC 30121 Certificate III’ for ‘Early Childhood Education and Care’
- ‘CHC 50121 Diploma’ for ‘Early Childhood Education and Care’
This isn’t done on a whim. Children’s social and educational development is crucial. Thus, any individual looking to help in this regard must also be given the appropriate monetary considerations.
4. Opens up more career options in the sector
The first steps in the early education sector tend to be a little linear. Once you begin an entry-level position, a few options are available. You can choose to work in centre-based day-care services, kindergartens and pre-schools, or as a residential caregiver.
By applying for childcare courses, you can broaden your horizons. These courses help you become qualified to apply for management and administrative positions in the sector.
For instance, positions such as an Operations Manager for centre-based programs or services are now open to you.
Wrapping up
Becoming involved with the growth of children is an incredible responsibility. Consequently, as a professional in this field, you must ensure that you are qualified and experienced.
General experience can come from just interacting with pre-school children. However, training in such courses will bestow you with invaluable knowledge and skills that wouldn’t otherwise be available to you.
