HAPPYLEARNER wrote: ↑Sun Feb 09, 2020 12:05 pm
Hi Guys
Im new Here too - Id really appreciate some advice.
Ive always had a passion for children esp. from ages birth to 5years and also education..
Im a NZ trained Registered Nurse - graduating in 2000
I'm currently doing a cert III in Early Childhood and Education via Open Colleges
My AIM in the next 2-3yrs is to open a small Day Care that hopefully can take about 10-15 kids.
Now, my question is - Is it best to do another degree in Education or go straight in and complete a Masters. Does anyone know how it works here in Australia
All suggestions will be greatly appreciate
Thank you
Hi Happy Learner!
To open a child care service you don't need a qualification but to be an early childhood educator within that service you do. Minimum of diploma is suggested and depending on what kind of child care you have (if your in charge) may be required by law.
In terms of whether to do another degree or masters, it's up to you.
I think while you study you should research, look at course content (subjects) and whether it appeals to you. Check placements, support offered etc.
Bachelor courses are quite different to masters.
Check the entry requirements of institutions, especially for masters. It differs depending on where you go for example some places accept a Bachelors in any discipline whereas other require early childhood education related subjects/degrees to have been completed, have industry experience etc
Bachelors in comparison are easier to get into.
Go to open days, see university careers counselors (as a prospective student), ask questions using online chat systems and see what former students are up to.
Couple of pointers:
- after you've finished studying (certificate) work for an agency to get that varied experience quicker and flexibility if you study again soon
- don't be put off in terms of lack of experience/ study history / what other people do or anything like that - talk directly with the universities or colleges about what they want to see from you
If you've done a Bachelors already
- check whether this discounts you from doing another (some places don't care, some people say they haven't done a degree in order to be accepted)
- a graduate certificate/diploma could be another option either on its own or as a bridge between your bachelor & certificate to masters. It may also allow you to be an early childhood teacher (ECT)
- move to a higher level of study if possible as per the Australian Qualifications Framework
You can do a certificate, diploma, bachelor's, graduate course, masters or higher and work in childcare in Australia.
Just make sure it's a recognised qualification with ACECQA.
With a bachelor degree I would personally try either a graduate certificate/ diploma or masters and be an ECT
Without I'd do a Bachelors and honours year and be an ECT. So it's really up to you, your preferences.
Let me know if that makes sense or if you have questions/comments
These are some links you might find helpful:
https://aussiechildcarenetwork.com.au/a ... e-business
https://www.acecqa.gov.au/qualifications/nqf-approved 
I really appreciate it... hearing it from someone who’s doing diploma it makes the whole idea of school less scary hahah 
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