Early Childhood Education and Care Courses – tips for preparing for your Practical Placement
13-Aug-25
Thinking about a career in early childhood education?
One of the most exciting (and important!) parts of your training is getting out of the classroom and into a real child care environment. The Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) Training Package requires all learners to complete hands-on practical placement as part of their studies.
Already working in a regulated childcare service? Good news—your usual paid hours can count towards your placement hours, making life much easier.
All placements must be completed in approved child care services regulated by the National Quality Framework (NQF). These include:
- long day care
- family day care
- preschool/kindergarten
- outside school hours care services
Practical placement isn’t just a requirement—it’s your chance to build confidence, put your skills into action, and see firsthand the difference you can make in children’s lives.
Preparing for your early childhood education practicum
At Suzan Johnston Training Organisation, we understand that entering an early learning setting for the first time can be both thrilling and a little unnerving. For this reason, we have compiled a list of useful tips to ensure that you feel ready for your first day.
- Verify all of your placement information before you start this can include the centre’s address, the time you should start, hours that you will be at the centre for (including your lunch break times and t breaks, and the person you should report to on your first day.
- Make sure you prepare your documentation, this will include your placement agreement and Working with Children Check, please make sure this is signed by the centre and yourself and given to your Suzan Johnston trainer before you would commence.
- To make sure you are aware of what observations or experiences you’ll need to complete during placement, it is a great idea to go over the specific tasks or requirements associated with your units, this is where you may book in a one-on-one session for support with our experienced trainers or attend the weekly drop in support session.
- Also, remember to bring your logbook, which is a crucial component of your childcqre course requirements, so you can accurately record your placement hours.
- For going outdoors with the children for active play it is important to dress professionally and appropriately. It is essential to wear closed-toe shoes, clean, modest clothing, and a hat when you are outside.
- Pack a water bottle marked with your name, lunch, a notebook, a pen, and a folder for your documentation or placement workbook.
- It is a great idea to refresh your knowledge of the National Quality Standard and the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF V2.0) prior to your placement. You could even learn important terms such as intentional teaching, play-based learning, and the value of relationships. Ask for a copy of the centre’s philosophy, if you can, and consider how it relates to your earlly childhood education studies.
- Once you’re there, be proactive and enthusiastic, make sure you are also on time. Whether it’s preparing a learning space, participating in story time, or just watching and learning from experienced educators, ask how you can help.
- Make sure you take notes about your daily activities and observations; this will support your self-evaluation, reflections, and confidence-building. Be open to comments and feedback and take it as a chance to improve.
- Above all, keep in mind that placement is your chance to develop, learn, and form deep connections with children, educators, and families.
- A lot of childcare course students find employment whilst on placement so show your worth and skills and it could pay off!
- Our child care training team are here to help you whenever needed. Good luck!
So, whether you’re stepping into the sector for the very first time or building on your existing experience, your placement will be where the magic happens. You’ll meet passionate educators, connect with children and families, and develop the skills that will set you up for a rewarding career in early childhood education. Your journey starts here! At Suzan Johnston Australia, we are passionate about empowering future educators to uphold the highest standards and best practices in early childhood education. If you’re interested in starting—or advancing—your journey as an early childhood professional, contact us today on 03 9654 0999.
