What does an accredited child care worker do?

An accredited child care worker’s day-to-day tasks and responsibilities will depend on the age of the children you are caring for and if you have pursued a specialisation within the field. Duties you may perform range from feeding and changing nappies of babies from six weeks-of-age, to organising games and educational activities, implementing sleep times, liaising with parents, and dealing with children from a wide variety of backgrounds and abilities.

Tasks:

  • Planning of early childhood development programs
  • Reporting developmental outcomes to parents
  • Ensuring inclusion of special needs children
  • Supervising play and enrichment activities such as dance and art
  • Maintaining safety and hygiene standards

What skills do I need to be an accredited child care worker?

A career in child care requires a genuine affinity with young children, patience, and a caring nature. A critical pillar in the support network of working parents, accredited child care workers provide reassurance that the children in their care are being well looked after. Child care workers must be attentive and observant and have the ability to participate in a very physically active job, involving some food preparation and cleaning duties.

Skills/attributes
  • Alert and active
  • Patient with a positive attitude
  • Great communication skills
  • Creative and empathetic
  • Observant and responsive
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Specialisations

Early child care offers an array of opportunities for career development, and you can tailor your study path accordingly. Listed below are just some roles available to those caring for children aged 0-12.

Early childhood teacher

Accredited early childhood teachers are eligible to work in both private and government-owned pre-school centres, as well as community kindergartens and child care centres. This qualification provides the core competencies required to create educational and social programs, and supervise and care for young children. The role generally reports to the director of the child care centre.

Out of School Hours (OOSH) care worker

OOSH care workers have completed relevant qualifications in child care and are able to implement programs during term and in school holidays for children aged five to 12 attending before and after school care centres. They are able to relate well to children and address individual needs, often working on a part-time or casual basis.

Nanny

A qualified nanny is accredited in child care and usually works in the home of the children they care for. The work may be full or part-time, or possibly on a live-in basis. A nanny may care for multiple children of various ages. They are required to provide physical care as well as develop activities and routines for children. Some night and weekend work may be required.

Study pathways for accredited child care workers

There are many opportunities for employment in the child care industry and courses are available to help you tailor your skills to the type of child care career you want.

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Getting Started

These vocational courses will allow you to join the child care industry in an entry-level role, such as junior child care centre worker. 

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Skill Building

Study for career advancement. Qualify as an Accredited Child Care Worker or pursue a career specialisation.

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Professional Development

These study options will enable you to pursue more specialised employment options in child care and education.

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Industry Recognition

Child care workers in Australia must be accredited by their state authority after completing their studies. Find out more about the professional requirements of the child care industry in your state in the Resources section.

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Getting a job after graduation

Put your training to good use and get the best-possible head start in your child care career. Take a look at our sample resume and cover letter and put your best foot forward when you apply for child care jobs.

Job Prospects and Salaries

With an increasing number of parents working full-time, there is a shortage of available and qualified child care staff. There are numerous opportunities in different settings with the potential for flexible hours.

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