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Teacher - Early Childhood

Also known as Pre-primary School Teacher and Preschool Teacher.

Early childhood teachers plan and conduct education programmes for young children.

Early childhood teachers work in government-owned pre-school centres, early education classes, community kindergartens and community childcare centres.

TASKS

Early childhood teachers may perform the following tasks:

plan activities using a variety of materials and equipment to develop good coordination, social skills, creativity, self-expression and an interest in learning
promote language development and self-confidence through storytelling, drama, music and discussions
help to organise and participate in excursions to enhance learning experiences
encourage children to question and explore the world in which they live
observe children to evaluate and record their progress and to detect signs of developmental disorders, ill health or emotional disturbance
recommend appropriate programmes for further development
work with guidance officers, speech pathologists and psychologists to assist children with special needs
help integrate children with special needs into mainstream classes
promote health and safety concepts and social interaction with other children
promote awareness and appreciation of diversity in multicultural societies
attend to sick children and those in need of first aid
comfort children who are hurt or distressed
assist children with their toileting and personal hygiene
discuss aspects of children's development with parents and other educators
discuss the aims of the education programme with parents
participate in community activities and parent/staff committees
supervise and work with student teachers and trainee childcare workers

PERSONAL REQUIREMENTS

able to relate to children and their families
a keen desire to teach children
willing to learn
good problem-solving skills
sound literacy and numeracy skills
high-level planning and organisational skills
enthusiastic, tactful, patient and a sense of humour
prepared to work outside of school hours

Good Outlook for this career!

Interest Area

EDUCATION & TRAINING

To become an early childhood teacher you usually have to complete a degree in education, with a major in early childhood. Alternatively, you can complete a bachelor degree in a related area, followed by a postgraduate qualification in education, specialising in early childhood.

To get into the degree courses you usually need to gain your HSC/ACT Year 12. Prerequisite subjects, or assumed knowledge, in one or more of English and mathematics are normally required. A number of universities in Australia offer degrees in education with a major in early childhood.

Universities have different prerequisites and some have flexible entry requirements or offer external study. Contact Open Universities Australia or the universities you are interested in for more information as requirements may change.

Entry to postgraduate courses usually requires completion of an appropriate bachelor degree. A number of universities in Australia offer postgraduate courses in education specialising in early childhood. They may be available by distance education. Contact Open Universities Australia or the universities you are interested in for more information as requirements may change.

Additional Information

Before undertaking practical placements required by courses, students will need to obtain a Working with Children Check (NSW) or a Working with Vulnerable People Check (ACT). A National Police Certificate may also be required. Contact the institutions you are interested in for more information.

Teaching in schools in NSW requires accreditation with the Board of Studies, Teaching and Educational Standards (BOSTES). See www.nswteachers.nsw.edu.au for further information. Teaching in schools in the ACT requires registration with the ACT Teacher Quality Institute. See www.tqi.act.edu.au for further information.

Teachers are required by mandatory reporting laws to report suspected cases of child abuse or neglect.

You may also be required to hold an approved Provide First Aid Certificate and have completed training in anaphylaxis management and emergency asthma management. Contact the Australian Children's Education and Care Quality Authority for more information.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Early childhood teachers are employed in education and care services for children aged 0-8 years by state and territory education departments, government and non-government schools or childcare centres. They may work in metropolitan or remote areas, or Aboriginal communities.

Self-employment opportunities exist as the proprietor of a private preschool or childcare centre. Other opportunities may be available as home tutors.