Goulburn Ovens institute of TAFE is encouraging people to consider a career in early childhood education, with industry demand for qualified educators at an all-time high.
Both the Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CHC30121) and Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CHC50121) are available under the Free TAFE scheme.
GOTAFE health, wellbeing and community director Michelle Chiller said this was an exciting opportunity for those interested in making a difference in the lives of young children.
“Early childhood educators play a vital role in our community,” Ms Chiller said.
“It’s a very rewarding career with room for personal development and the potential to have a long-lasting impact on the lives of young children.
“GOTAFE offers pathways to build a meaningful career in early childhood education locally. There has never been a better time to enrol, with both certificate and diploma level courses available under the Free TAFE program.
“Our Seymour and Wallan campuses feature state-of-the-art simulation labs that reflect the early childhood care service environment.
“Community and family groups make use of the spaces, allowing students to gain real-world experience.”
GOTAFE graduate Cayla enjoyed the hands-on practical learning environment.
“The simulation labs had shelves filled with toys and stuff for us to practice and play with to get the ideas flowing,” Cayla said.
Cayla said she had found her dream career.
“I love teaching children and watching them learn,” she said.
“I love the little moments when I can see that a child understands something. It's like something goes off in their head and I can see they ‘get it’ and they learn.”
Another GOTAFE graduate, Rachel, said she benefited from the experience of her trainers and found the learning environment very supportive and encouraging.
"My trainer is a wealth of knowledge, supportive, approachable, and available,“ Rachel said.
“She taught more than was needed just to pass, she taught us to speak up for children’s advocacy and rights and helped us develop ourselves, so we had the confidence to speak up and have a voice about issues affecting us in the workplace.
“I would not be the educator I am today without her.”
To find out more about GOTAFE courses or to apply for semester one, visit www.gotafe.vic.edu.au/study/education/early-childhood-education or phone 1800 GOTAFE (468 233).