In March, the Centre of Excellence hosted a forum focused on the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care [CHC50121]. Held in partnership with the Office for Early Childhood Development, it brought together educators, employers, leaders, training providers, and higher education partners to share ideas to tackle some of the challenges around the Diploma.

The room agreed that more consistent pathways between Certificate III and Diploma qualifications are needed. Attendees identified the need for better coordination between RTOs and early childhood services, especially when it comes to enrolment, the issuing of credit transfers and workplace-based learning.

Workplace-based learning was seen as a crucial part of preparing students for the realities of the job and many shared the view that more flexible, practical models of training are needed. Participants also spoke about the importance of creating a culture of professional learning, where educators feel supported, and their progress is recognised.

The forum reinforced that if we want to attract and retain a skilled, passionate workforce, we need to make the pathway clearer and more supportive through better collaboration, consistent RPL processes and improved working conditions.

As the initiatives of the Centre develop, we’ll continue to host these important conversations across the country.

This is part of our commitment to listen, learn and co-design solutions that reflect the real experiences of those working and studying in early childhood education and care.