Early childhood education is one of the fastest growing sectors across Australia.
It's probably no surprise to you that early childhood is a growing sector.
And like any service where there's a demand, it has created a real supply issue.
With Kindergarten now positioned in schools, this has led to many primary teachers delivering classes, rather than the qualified early childhood educators that schools need to meet the National Quality Standard.
Adding more pressure to the mix, the State Government in Western Australia has recently proposed a 5 day a week Kindergarten to be trialled in 2026.
So, if you're a primary teacher who teaches a school's early childhood cohort – and you want to meet the National Quality Standard – you'll need to add to your qualification and become accredited.
Fortunately, some universities have addressed these market changes by designing or redesigning courses to help tackle the supply challenge.
That includes a course like a Graduate Certificate of Education (Early Childhood Studies).
Do you have leadership aspirations?
This recognised qualification, developed by the School of Education at Edith Cowan University will increase your employment opportunities in early childhood education.
And not only within Kindergarten and Pre-Primary school settings.
The qualification will also position you well for school leadership roles, and pedagogical leadership in early childhood education and care settings.
It also provides the credentials you need to eventually own and run your own early learning centre.
ECU's Graduate Certificate course has been designed by teachers for teachers, and it can be completed in only 8 months.
Designed by teachers for teachers
The Graduate Certificate course has been designed by teachers, for teachers and it can be completed in only 8 months.
It's especially suited to current teachers, as practicums in early learning centres are completed in school holidays.
If you're already teaching an early childhood cohort in a school, you can complete part of your professional experience in your own class, upskilling while getting paid.
Successful completion of the course gives you an ACECQA recognised qualification that allows you to teach children in early childhood settings from birth to 8-year-olds.
The Commonwealth Government also supports the course through discounted fees.
Dajana takes the next career step
"After years of working in primary school and early childhood education across different countries, I wanted to formalise my qualifications in Australia," says Dajana Damjanic, currently working at Elsternwick Montessori Academy in Victoria.
"So, I took the next step toward becoming a registered Early Childhood Teacher, and I chose this ECU course.
"ECU recognised both my previous qualifications and my diverse professional background, which gave me confidence that this was the right path for me."
Although the course is mostly online, Dajana says the support has been consistent, with clear guidance, timely communication, and understanding from academic staff.
"I feel that ECU truly acknowledges the diverse pathways that students like me bring to the table," she says.
"I also appreciate having the flexibility to study around my full-time work in early childhood education."
ECU student Dajana Damjanic says, "I appreciate having the flexibility to study around my full-time work in early childhood education."
Start the new year with a new direction
If this article has got you thinking, visit Graduate Certificate of Education for more details, to make an enquiry, or to start an application for next year.
The course commences in January, so it's almost decision time!
If you're interested in finding out more about ECU's other teaching courses, head over to the Teacher Education web page.
