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.
- Alert and active
- Patient with a positive attitude
- Great communication skills
- Creative and empathetic
- Observant and responsive
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
Out of School Hours (OOSH) care worker
Nanny
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.
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.
Skill Building
Study for career advancement. Qualify as an Accredited Child Care Worker or pursue a career specialisation.
Professional Development
These study options will enable you to pursue more specialised employment options in child care and education.
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.
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.