Work placement is a vital part of any early childhood education and care qualification, offering students hands-on experience in real-life childcare settings. For those pursuing a career in this field, childcare work placement is an opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge, familiarise with practical problem-solving, and gain confidence to progress into the workforce.  

If you are soon to commence your childcare work placement, here are 5 things you can expect! 

5 Things to Expect in Childcare Work Placement

1. Hands-on Experience

During your placement, you’ll have the chance to carry out crucial care tasks alongside experienced educators who will support and mentor you. These tasks may range from engaging in children’s play, setting up and organizing activities, assisting with mealtime routines, to reading stories and guiding children through creative art and craft projects.  

These responsibilities will give you the opportunity to get accustomed to the daily rhythms of a childcare setting and apply the knowledge acquired with guidance from your fellow staff members. 

2. Experience Diverse Childcare Settings

According to the Department of Education and Training Victoria, placements are designed to provide aspiring childcare educators with a comprehensive understanding of different educational settings. From daycare centers, kindergartens, to preschools, be prepared to immerse yourself in a variety of childcare environments that will facilitate a versatile skill set.  

3. Learn as You Go

As you’re starting out, you might not have the perfect execution of everything. Expect to receive feedback from experienced supervisors throughout your placement, who are willing to mentor, give you guidance, and help you navigate the challenges of working with young children. This supervision is essential for helping you reflect on your practice, improve over time, and reach personal goals along your journey, so be ready to learn with an open mindset. 

4. Developing Key Skills

Expect to develop a wide range of essential skills during your childcare work placement, including: 

• Childcare program planning: Designing activities that are educational, engaging, and developmentally appropriate. 
• Communication: Interacting with children, parents, and colleagues to foster a positive learning environment. 
• Child safety: Ensuring a safe environment by following health and safety regulations. 
• Observation and reporting: Documenting children’s behavior and development to assess their progress. 

5. Maintaining Professionalism

Even though you might not be fulfilling an official role during your placement, it is crucial to maintain professionalism and a positive attitude. This means arriving on time, dressing appropriately, and adhering to the guidelines and policies of the hosting childcare center. Additionally, being proactive in helping out with tasks and showing enthusiasm for learning will not only help you integrate smoothly into the team but also help you get the most out of your placement experience.  

Having a Supported Placement Journey 

Your placement is an invaluable steppingstone towards a rewarding career in early childhood education. It provides you with real-world experience and allows you to network with professionals in the industry, often leading to promising future employment opportunities. 

At GBCA, we understand that securing a placement can be challenging. That’s why we offer comprehensive support throughout your course. We arrange work placements for our students at no extra cost, ensuring you gain the practical experience needed to excel. Additionally, our Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care is designed to equip you with the foundational knowledge and skills required to enter the industry with confidence.  

Ready to take the next step in your early childhood education career? Explore our Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care course and reach out today for any enquiries!