More places open for rural educators

THE latest round of the State Government’s Certificate III Upskill Support Program is open, aiming to strengthen the early childhood education workforce in regional areas.

Applications are now open in the program, which will provide 400 places for educators looking to upskill with a Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care.

Applicants receive $7000 in financial support and half the places in the program are reserved for regional and rural Victorians.

“We’re giving every child the best start and every parent the support they need,” Minister for Children Lizzie Blandthorn said.

“That’s why we’re not just investing in free kinder and infrastructure –we’re making sure there are enough highly-trained teachers and educators to deliver kinder programs, with real financial and professional support to get them there.

“By training more teachers and educators, and supporting their careers, we’re making sure families have access to quality, affordable kinder close to home – no matter where they live.”

Deakin University is also offering online early education courses with scholarships worth $25,000 available for bachelor students and $12,000 for graduate diploma students.

More than 200 places are available over two years and priority will be given applicants from Ararat, Hindmarsh, Horsham, Southern Grampians, and Ballarat.

“Through our partnership with the Victorian Government, Deakin will provide the wraparound supports necessary to help early childhood educators upskill while working in the sector and assist Victorians keen to change their career and become early childhood teachers,” Deakin University head of school of education Professor Damian Blake said.

“Having the option to study while working in the sector allows Deakin students to access hands-on learning while fostering supportive professional networks that will help them in their career journey.”

To apply, visit vic.gov.au/financial-support-study-and-work-early-childhood .