In every community, early childhood teachers and educators make a difference positively influencing and shaping the lives of children and families.
It's a great time to join the early childhood profession. Early childhood education and care is a growing and dynamic sector offering rewarding job opportunities where the possibilities are endless.
Nationally recognised qualifications
The
National Quality Framework (NQF) sets out the qualification requirements to work in children's education and care services across Australia. This means with an approved early childhood qualification, it may be possible for you to work anywhere in the country.
You can also work at an early childhood service while you study. There are many flexible pathways to enter the sector. Jobs are plentiful and support is available to apply what you learn, as you earn.
Learn more about
qualifications to get you there.
Variety and possibilities
Right now, qualified early childhood teachers and educators with a passion for early learning and development are in demand across Queensland. If you’d like a unique and life-changing opportunity, working in a regional, rural or remote community could be the perfect pathway for you.
Early childhood is diverse and full of possibilities. More than 48,000 people are employed in over 3,500 early childhood services throughout Queensland.
You can work for different early childhood service providers and in different settings, including:
- privately owned small and large businesses/organisations
- community-based or not-for-profit services
- privately owned services located on school sites
- kindergarten programs within state schools in rural and remote locations
You can also provide family day care from your own home or support others working in services.
Learn more about
which work environment would suit you and the roles and responsibilities you can explore.
Working in early childhood
While qualifications give you the formal knowledge and skills you need to become an educator, teacher and leader in early childhood education and care, the personal qualities and skills you have make a big difference in helping children want to learn every day they are with you.
Be a good communicator
Teachers and educators need to be able to communicate with children in a way that is age-appropriate. It is also important to develop skills in communicating with families about their children's skills, abilities and achievements to provide the best learning experiences for their child.
Be passionate, authentic and love learning
You will need to have a love of teaching, but also a love of learning. Children will respond well to someone who is passionate about teaching and helping them learn. Strong dedication and devotion to your work will lead to great learning outcomes for children.
Respect children and families
It is important to respect that every child and their family is unique. Being aware of, and working with, the different strengths of each child can make you a more effective teacher or educator who is able to support each child to learn in their own way.
Be creative and energetic
The key to being a quality educator is being able to think outside the box to develop and deliver great learning outcomes for all children in your care. This is important as you will need to develop skills to engage children and families in a number of ways. An energetic and creative teacher or educator will help children stay positive about learning every day. Learning should always be fun and laughter can often help children learn.
Be organised
You need to be able to plan well and stay organised. Children want routines and seek interactions from you that promote a positive learning environment.