As the demand for childcare continues to surge in Australia, the question arises: Can you work in childcare while studying? You’re likely weighing the possibility of launching your career alongside your academic growth or getting real industry experience alongside your certificates, diplomas, or bachelors. 

You can work in childcare while studying in Australia, depending on your employer and your area’s requirements. And while it can take up a bit of your time, choosing both an educational provider and employer that offers flexibility, can make it a rewarding experience.

The Reality Of Working In Childcare While Studying

Navigating a career in childcare while studying educational qualifications can be a challenging yet rewarding experience. Flexible schedules and part-time positions in childcare often make it possible to combine work and study. Furthermore, hands-on experience in the industry not only enhances your academic understanding but also provides a competitive edge in the job market.

Basic Qualifications Needed To Work In Childcare

Stepping into the world of childcare requires some basic qualifications, but don’t worry; it’s not as overwhelming as it might seem. A great starting point is obtaining your Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care. This nationally recognised certificate is like a golden ticket to various roles within childcare and EIM Training offers this course, tailored to equip you with both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience!

If you’re aiming for more senior roles, or you’ve already finished some previous studies, you’ll want to consider advancing to a Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care. A diploma deepens your understanding of child development, opens doors to leadership roles, and best of all, it’s also available at EIM Training.

Can You Work in Childcare Without Qualifications?

Depending on where you’re based in Australia, formal qualifications like a Certificate III or Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care are usually the industry standards for most childcare roles. While there can be limited positions available that may not require formal qualifications, these are often entry-level roles and may not offer long-term career growth.

It’s worth noting that Australian regulations typically necessitate some level of accredited training for individuals involved in childcare. In fact, without meeting these basic educational requirements, your opportunities within the sector are likely to be restricted. This is both to ensure the safety and well-being of the children and to maintain high standards of care and education in the industry.

Legal Requirements and Government Support

Before you begin working in childcare, certain legal prerequisites must be met depending on where you’re based. For example, if you’re working in childcare while studying in Queensland, this can include undergoing a Working With Children Check and obtaining a First Aid Certificate. 

For comprehensive information on these requirements, you can visit the official websites of the Australian Government Department of Education, Skills and Employment and the Australian Children’s Education and Care Quality Authority.

Benefits of Working in Childcare While Studying

Getting Hands-on Experience

Getting hands-on experience while you’re still studying gives you the best of both worlds. You’re not just learning from textbooks, but you’re also out there, understanding what it’s like in an actual childcare setting. Gaining industry experience isn’t just about helping you be better in your future positions, but about making you more employable too.

Building Connections in the Industry

When you’re working and studying at the same time, you also get to meet a lot of people in the industry. This can help you when you’re looking for a job or want to progress in your career.

Getting Better at Working in Childcare While Studying

Working in childcare while studying can be challenging. You’ll be working towards meeting assessment deadlines, while balancing the needs of your employer. That means, your plate can get full at times, and time management will need to be a strong suit. 

To help manage your priorities, deadlines, and stress, you can use a few tricks and tools, like:

  • Time-tracking apps
  • Reminders on your phone
  • Study planners
  • Your online calendar (so it syncs to all your devices)

At EIM Training, we know it’s a lot to handle, so we’ve designed our courses to help you manage these challenges. We offer flexible schedules, so you don’t have to stress too much about fitting everything in. Plus, our courses give you real-life experience in the childcare industry, so you’re getting practical skills to go along with the theory.

How EIM Training Can Help You Start Your Career In Childcare?

Balancing working in childcare while studying can be difficult, but also super rewarding. You’ll gain hands-on experience, formal qualifications, and connections to potential longterm employers. 

If you’re interested in getting started, EIM Training is dedicated to offering courses that equip you with the essential skills and practical experience to ensure you are not just qualified but truly job-ready. Your path to a fulfilling career in childcare starts here. For those looking to dive deeper, we encourage you to explore the comprehensive courses offered by EIM Training or contact us today for more information.