Early Childhood Education and Care in the 21st Century: Career Options

In the past, Early Childhood Education and Care was dismissed as “Babysitting” or “just playing with children”. However, over the last 20 years research in this area has shown the significance of Early Childhood in the development of children and families. As a result, Early Childhood Education and Care has increasingly being recognized nationally and internationally as vital to a child’s development.

What is Early Childhood Education?
According to the Australian Early Development Census (2019), early childhood is the most critical period in a child’s life as this is where children begin to learn about their environment and the people around them. The Centre for the Developing Child at Harvard University (2007) stated that during the early years, children are at a stage where their neural connections are being formed; therefore a supportive and caring environment will make these connections stronger, thus helping the children become more successful and competent in their society.

Why choose a career in Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC)?
The early childhood industry is constantly evolving. As our population grows, the demand for early childhood services is also increasing. Currently, the government has prioritized funding and resourcing various early childhood programs, including early childhood centres. The Department of Communities (2018) has also partnered with various centres to provide services and assistance should educators need help in facilitating their programs A career in early childhood is for someone who is seeking to immerse themselves in a dynamic profession. It is a good stepping stone into other various career options such as education, nursing, social work and allied health. For someone who is seeking experience in business and management, there are also lucrative business opportunities in child care centre management and operations through managing a childcare centre.

How do I get started?
There are many ways to start a career in Early Childhood Education and Care. Here at Stanley College - RTO 51973 | CRICOS Course Provider: 03047E, we are offering courses that will support you on your new learning journey.
The two main courses we offer are:
• CHC30113 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care
• CHC50113 Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care
A Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care will provide you basic knowledge in childhood development as well as building relationships and care strategies for young children. A Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care will take you to the next step in your career by teaching you about management and leadership as well as maintaining a safe working environment for staff and children.

For more information, please contact 08 9227 1797 and speak to one of our admissions officers to begin your career in Early Childhood Education and Care with Stanley College.

References
Australian Early Development Census. (2019). The importance of early childhood development. Retrieved from Australian Early Development Census: https://www.aedc.gov.au/parents/the-importance-of-early-childhood-development
Center on the Developing Child, Harvard University. (2007). Inbrief: The sceience of early childhood development. Retrieved from Center on the Developing Child, Harvard University: https://46y5eh11fhgw3ve3ytpwxt9r-wpengine.netdna-ssl.com/wp-content/uploads/2007/03/InBrief-The-Science-of-Early-Childhood-Development2.pdf
Department of Communities. (2018). Early years initiative. Retrieved from Department of Communities: https://www.communities.wa.gov.au/projects/early-years-initiative/