International Candidates | Work in Early Childhood

International Childcare Candidates

We welcome qualified international candidates and Early Childhood Educators who are seeking work in the childcare sector. Here are some helpful hints to ensure you are eligible to work in the Australian early childhood industry.

Qualification assessment

All carers working in the Australian early childhood sector must hold, or be working towards, a qualification in early childhood.

It is important to check that any qualification obtained outside of Australia is considered equivalent to an approved Australian qualification. There are lists of approved qualifications which appear on the ACECQA (Australian Children's Education and Care Quality Authority) website however if your qualification doesn't appear on the list you may apply to have it assessed.

Each state also has its own set of regulations and checks that apply, to see state regulations click here.

To work in Australia you will also need;

Your day as a childcare worker in Australia:

Punctuality

Due to National regulations, punctuality is very important as your shift time is dependent on the number of children the centre is expecting and ratios must be correct at all times. This means that it is vital you are on time for your shift - ready on the floor from the start time. We recommend arriving 10-15 minutes early to introduce yourself to the Director, get your bag put away in the staff room and have the opportunity to have a look at the routine for the day.

Arriving at the centre

When you arrive at the centre, it is important to introduce yourself to the Director or staff in charge. Remember, first impressions are very important so be happy and eager to start your work day. It is important to sign in in the visitor log book and in some instances you will be taken on a tour of the centre or given a brief orientation. Ask about emergency exits and make an effort to learn the names of the staff you will be working with.

Your working day

Your duties during your shift will vary depending on what room you are in, who you are replacing and your qualification but in general, as a relief childcare worker, you will be expected to supervise and interact with the children, assist with transitions and meal times as well as cleaning and maintenance of the centre's indoor and outdoor areas. Be flexible when it comes to which room you are working in as this may change throughout the working day as ratios change and permanent staff take their breaks or take time off the floor for programming. If you are ever unsure about what you should be doing always ask permanent staff. Showing initiative will make a good impression.

Interactions with children, staff and families

Getting down to the child's level and interacting with them is the most important part of your role as a casual childcare worker. Regardless of the age group you are working with, you should be on the floor, involved in the activities, assisting with projects, supporting developmental milestones and supervising play. Even though the children should be your primary focus, your interactions with the staff is also important so ask questions and do your best to insert yourself into the team. Having a permanent staff member away can be challenging for the other staff so do your best to be the support that they need. The parents will be unfamiliar with you so be sensitive tho this and introduce yourself to them as a casual from Expect A Star. This should be reinforced by your ID badge and ID sheet.

We hope you find this information helpful and that we have the opportunity to work with you in the future.

If you have further questions please call 1300 669 653 or email recruitment@expectastar.com.au.