New bachelor degree to help experienced educator workforce earn while they learn

Experienced early childhood educators in Ballarat and Berwick will soon be able to upskill to become qualified teachers in around 18 months under a new ‘earn and learn’ degree launched by Federation University Australia and supported by the Victorian Government’s Early Childhood Tertiary Partnerships program.

The Bachelor of Early Childhood Education has been designed to help meet growing demand for qualified early childhood teachers, particularly in regional Victoria.

Tailored for Diploma-qualified educators already working in the sector, the course recognises their experience and allows them to continue earning while they learn – completing placements within their existing workplace.

Jobs and Skills Australia modelling indicates around 21,000 qualified early childhood education and care professionals are needed across Australia to meet demand, with shortages forecast to be particularly acute in regional centres.

The new degree has been developed in direct response to these workforce pressures, providing experienced educators who hold a Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care with a flexible pathway to transition into teaching roles without leaving their job or community.

Students will work in their current early childhood setting four days a week while dedicating one day to study. Learning will be delivered online, complemented by regular intensive, on-campus sessions.

This flexible model enables students to build their skills while providing continuity for employers, families and children.

Students will also be supported by qualified University mentors, with weekly online discussions and mentor visits during placement to help them translate theory into practice in their workplace.

Importantly, support is available to help remove barriers to study, including scholarships and assistance with course materials and travel for regional students.

The course launch comes amid significant investment in Federation’s education portfolio, including the recruitment of seven new positions to support growth in teaching, research and workforce development.

It also builds on the recent launch of the University’s Centre for Regional Education, Research and Development – a Victorian-first initiative dedicated to rural and regional education.

The Centre brings together researchers, educators and community partners to address workforce shortages, access to professional development and long-standing gaps in education attainment between metro and regional areas.

Applications for the Bachelor of Early Childhood Education are now open for people with a Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care who are currently working in an early childhood setting.

Quotes attributable to Pro Vice-Chancellor, Institute of Education, Arts and Community Birgit Loch

“This is about making it easier for experienced educators to take the next step in their career, without having to leave their job or their community.”

“These are passionate educators who are already making a difference in the lives of children every day. This program recognises their experience and provides a supported pathway to progress their careers.”