If you’re considering a career in early childhood education and care, one of the first questions you may ask is:
“What qualification do I need to work in a childcare centre?”
The answer is simple: under Australia’s National Quality Framework (NQF), educators working with children of preschool age and under in centre-based services must hold (or be actively working towards) an ACECQA-approved qualification.
What is ACECQA?
The Australian Children’s Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA) is the national body responsible for guiding quality standards across Australia’s early childhood education and care sector.
ACECQA approves qualifications that meet the requirements of the National Quality Framework, ensuring educators have the skills and knowledge needed to provide high-quality education and care for young children.
What qualifications are required?
For centre-based early childhood services (including long day care, preschool and kindergarten), the National Regulations require:
This means the CHC30125 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care is the minimum qualification required for most educator roles, while the CHC50125 Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care provides opportunities for greater responsibility and leadership within an early learning service.
What does “actively working towards” mean?
The National Regulations recognise that many educators begin working while studying.
In many circumstances, students who are actively working towards an approved qualification may be counted towards staffing qualification requirements, provided they meet the regulatory criteria. This allows students to gain valuable workplace experience while completing their studies.
Why study an ACECQA-approved qualification?
Completing an approved child care qualification prepares you with the practical skills employers are looking for, including:
These skills prepare graduates for rewarding careers across the early childhood sector.
Career opportunities
Graduates with an approved Certificate III or Diploma qualification may work in a variety of settings, including:
Many educators also continue their studies into an Early Childhood Teaching degree, opening pathways to becoming an Early Childhood Teacher.
Study with Suzan Johnston Australia
At Suzan Johnston Australia, we’ve been helping students build rewarding careers in early childhood education and care for more than 30 years.
Our nationally recognised, ACECQA-approved qualifications are delivered online, allowing you to study at your own pace while balancing work, family and other commitments. You’ll receive ongoing support from experienced trainers, with assistance available via phone, email and Microsoft Teams whenever you need it.
Whether you’re taking your first step into the industry with a CHC30125 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care or looking to progress into leadership with a CHC50125 Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care, we’re here to help you achieve your goals.
If you’d like to learn more about our early childhood qualifications, we’d love to hear from you. Our friendly team is always happy to answer your questions and help you find the pathway that’s right for you.
