Career Pathways

You will be given financial assistance to study introductory units towards the Bachelor of Early Childhood Education (Birth to 5 Years).

Attend one class per semester (two hours per week) at the University of Canberra. We will use your Diploma qualifications to get 8 units (24 credit points). This means, after only 12 months on Early Learning Connection, you will have studied two units (6 credit points), and completed over 40% of the Bachelor Degree. You will then be assisted with a “Next Steps Plan” to continue with the degree independently.

Semester 1, 2024: Play in Early Childhood

• Learn about historical and contemporary theories of play.

• Develop a deep understanding of the different types of play, play research methodologies and why play has been embedded in the Convention on the Rights of the Child.

• Explore cross-cultural studies of play in addition to contemporary issues in play such as risky play and nature play.

• Engage in hands-on learning opportunities and field trips to develop rich understandings of play and play pedagogies.

Semester 2, 2024: Behaviour in Early Childhood

• Build your knowledge and confidence around supporting children's behaviour within the early childhood setting.

• Understand the underlying reasons for behaviours and how to best support children.

• Learn physiology responses when extreme behaviour occurs; and strategies within our teaching approaches and learning environments to support children's behaviours.

Flexible and supported entry into the degree enables you to continue working in your current role.

The units you will study while on Early Learning Connection have no professional practical components, as such you will not require extended time off work.

You will have your own coach to help you balance work, study, life commitments and most importantly, your own wellbeing.

You will be supported to develop your goals, identify any challenges, and be empowered to embrace your new career.

If you have children under 5 years, and need care, your coach can help you enrol them at a centre while you work and study.

We invite women to apply who:

• Would love to build their career in early childhood education

• Feel motivated to learn and committed to make a difference

• Enjoy working with a team, getting to know families and community

• Love helping children feel safe, build relationships and life skills

• Ready to take on the challenge, commit in a supported way

• Live or work in the ACT

• Australian Citizen, Permanent Resident or have an eligible visa class

Successful participants will need to commit to attending class at the University of Canberra one day a week during study periods. A Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care is required.