I want to show you something small that changed how I read our own curriculum frameworks. I went looking for the word each one uses for me, the person standing in the room with the children. The three central documents gave me three different answers.
The Early Childhood Australia Code of Ethics (2016) calls me an early childhood professional. It defines that as a person who works professionally with or on behalf of children and families. What strikes me is how the Code is written. Its sections are a run of statements that begin “I will.” They read as promises in my own voice. The Code names me as a professional, then asks me to claim that name by committing to it.
The national framework, the EYLF, uses a different word. It calls me an educator. It builds my professionalism out of what I do, describing educators who make professional judgements by drawing on their knowledge, the context of each child, and critical reflection. The word educator holds the degree-qualified teacher and the Certificate III educator inside one term. Which is very inclusive… I also think it created shared language for us.
Here in Victoria, the VEYLDF also says early childhood professional, and it uses the term most broadly of the three. In that framework, the word covers anyone who works with children from birth to eight, and it names nurses, teachers, family support workers and allied health staff alongside educators. Victoria treats the profession as a community of many disciplines. I like the approach of community of practice, this makes ECE profession “relational”.
So notice what happened. Three documents, and I was handed three names before I had chosen one for myself. None of them made teacher the obvious default.
Here is what I would ask you to think about. Find the word each of these documents uses for you, then sit with the one that fits you least. Whose definition of your role have you been carrying without noticing?
Early childhood educators play an essential role in shaping the future of Australia children. It is also a profession in demand and is growing sector. If you love working with children, enjoy being part of a team, and want to make a real difference, early childhood education could be the perfect path for you.
Here are six great reasons to consider this career:
1. Strong Job Demand
The early learning sector in Australia employs thousands of educators, and the demand keeps growing. With over 1.4 million children enrolled in early learning services, there’s a continuous need for qualified professionals. In fact, as of August 2024, there are more than 5,751 job advertisements for Early Childhood Educators on SEEK across the country. The number of service providers also increases each year, ensuring stable job opportunities in the sector. For more details on job prospects in this field, you can visit the Job Outlook website.
2. Learn While You Work
You don’t need prior qualifications to start. Many of my students studying Certificate 3 are already working in the centres. Many employers offer Traineeships or Apprenticeships, allowing you to earn a recognised qualification while gaining practical experience. These opportunities are open to people of all ages, whether you’re just starting out or looking for a career change. When I worked as a trainer and assessor at one non-for-profit RTO, most of my students were women (moms) looking for their first job in Australia after they moved here as a family.
3. Clear Career Path
Starting as a trainee or student who is working towards Certificate 3 in ECEC, you can work in various settings like early learning centres, kindergartens, or outside school hours care. With more experience and study, you could advance to roles such as Lead Educator, Educational Leader, Early Childhood Teacher, Early Childhood Trainer or even Centre Manager. There’s always room to grow and develop your skills, offering a fulfilling and progressive career path.
4. Rewarding Work
As an early childhood educator, you play a crucial role in a child’s social, emotional, and academic development during a critical stage of their growth. Your work makes a lasting impact, helping them become confident, curious, and ready to learn. It’s a deeply rewarding job where you can see the difference you’re making every day.
5. Skilled Migration Opportunities
Australia recognises the importance of early childhood educators and has included this profession in its skilled migration program. If you’re qualified and interested in working in Australia, you may be eligible for skilled migration, allowing you to build a career in a country with a high demand for early childhood professionals. This can be an excellent opportunity for those looking to immigrate and build a meaningful career.
If you are worried about your level of English, watch this video, where I talk about how I improved my English fast at the beginning of my career.
6. Study for Free or Low Cost
In 2024, eligible people can study early childhood education for free or at a low cost, thanks to government funding. Courses like the Certificate III and Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care are often covered. Check with your state or territory’s Department of Education to find out what’s available.
Median salary
The median weekly earnings for early childhood (pre-primary school) teachers in Australia is $1,660.
The Bigger Picture
Australia’s early learning sector is vast, with over 16,000 approved early learning centres operating nationwide. These centres cater to more than 1.4 million children, illustrating the significant role that early childhood education plays in the country. The sector’s growth and the high number of children attending services highlight the ongoing demand for dedicated and skilled educators.
You can learn more about the sector and its requirements on the Australian Children’s Education & Care Quality Authority (ACECQA) website. The basic qualification is Certificate 3 in Early Childhood Education and Care, which takes about one year to complete, it includes 160 hours of placement.
Ready to Get Started?
Being an early childhood educator comes with its challenges, but it’s also full of rewarding moments.
If you’re passionate about supporting children during their early years, starting a Traineeship could be the perfect fit.
To learn more, talk to a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) (this is where I work) , TAFE or contact your local early learning services about job and training opportunities. You’ll need a Working With Children Check or Police Check, which your state or territory government can help you organise.
For more details on required qualifications, visit the ACECQA website.
