How to become a child carer
Look after and care for children in residential households and childcare centres.
Pathways to this career
Study either an undergraduate or postgraduate degree in education, majoring in Early Childhood Education. While a Certificate 3 makes for a fast entry into the world of childcare, tertiary qualifications can increase your earning potential.
A Working with Children check/license is mandatory in every Australian state. Consider completing a comprehensive First Aid certificate to increase your chances of employment.
Look into the The Australian Children's Education and Quality Care Authority (ACECQA) for support, education and networking events to qualified child carers across Australia.
What does a child carer do?
Duties and tasks
Assist children with personal care activities such as hygiene, bathing and dressing, and mobility
Cook and prepare meals, snacks and beverages for children according to centre specifications or parents requests
Engage children in a variety of stimulating activities to promote their development such as musical activities, outdoor games, reading, basic educational programs, etc.
Manage and correct children's behavior and implement appropriate disciplinary actions
Plan or determine daily routine for children set out by parents, caretakers or day care centres and guide children in routine activities
Prepare materials and pack items needed for educational programs and social and outdoor activities
Supervise children while partaking in outdoors play, games and activities and ensure safety at all times
Industry bodies
Related jobs
Child care worker
Counsellor
Developmental care worker
Education aide
Social worker
Therapy aide
Welfare worker
Youth worker
Discover related courses
Undergraduate Certificate in Teaching Education Studies
UndergraduateCUR-HTE-CTF
Work towards your future in early childhood teaching
Study 4 core subjects in teaching children—and get entry and credit in Curtin’s Bachelor Degree. Topics include language, literacy, and curriculum. Start thinking about your career as a professional early childhood or primary educator.
- Study method
- 100% online
- Duration
- 6 months full time or part time equivalent
- Entry requirements
- No ATAR required. Start with a subject.
Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood Education)
UndergraduateCUR-ECE-DEG
Comprehensive pre-service teaching preparation
Enter the valued profession of early childhood teaching and child care. Study core subjects, professional studies and electives to be qualified to teach children aged 0-8 years in early learning centres and in junior school settings.
- Study method
- Online & on-campus
- Duration
- 4 years full time or part time equivalent
- Entry requirements
- No ATAR required. Start with a subject.
Master of Teaching (Early Childhood and Primary)
PostgraduateACU-TEC-MAS
Bring your love of learning to the classroom
Focus on creating a great environment to support childhood learning. Become a passionate advocate for the rights of children. Explore the ways that you can help children to build knowledge, skills and positive attitudes.
- Study method
- Online & on-campus
- Duration
- 2 years full time or part time equivalent
Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood/Primary)
UndergraduateSCU-ECP-DEG
Double your options to work with young learners
From play to personal development, subjects in this degree prepare you to teach young and school aged children. Study the fundamentals of literacy and numeracy. Delve into science and art. Professional placements help you put theory into practice.
- Study method
- Online & on-campus
- Duration
- 4 years full time or part time equivalent
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