Early Childhood Teacher boost thanks to ECU

First published by Edith Cowan University

From Semester One 2025 Edith Cowan University (ECU) will offer prospective students with an approved NM TAFE Diploma, who may already work in the industry, an exciting new pathway to continue their studies and earn a Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood Studies) degree.

"This exciting pathway will allow early childhood educators who haven’t completed a Bachelor’s degree an opportunity to do so, while still earning an income and working in early childhood centres, kindergartens or schools," ECU Associate Dean (Early Childhood) Associate Professor Gill Kirk said.

"The course work will be directly relevant to their daily responsibilities and tasks, enabling them to immediately apply what they learn during their course work at ECU."

The Diploma qualification must have been obtained by coursework within the last 10 years to reduce the duration of the Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood Studies) degree by up to eight units.

"This effectively provides the possibility of completing the degree within three years, if studied full time," Associate Professor Kirk added.

An ECU Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood Studies) is a birth to eight qualification that has been accredited by both ACECQA and the Teacher Registration Board of WA.

Addressing the need for early childhood teachers

The new pathway is a combined initiative been ECU and NM TAFE to address WA's critical teacher shortage.

"We moved swiftly to open up possibilities for people who are keen to learn and apply their understanding at work," Associate Professor Kirk said.

"We have been keeping WA early learning providers and possible students in mind as we continue to respond to need without limiting our quality."

NM TAFE Director Profile, Pathways & Support Susan Thompson said; “Pathways and flexibility are something we're very keen to offer our students and this agreement with ECU will offer Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care learners some great options.

"NMTAFE and the Education Portfolio are proud to be partnering with ECU to improve the number of graduates into the Early Childhood Education industry. It's a critical area for Western Australians who value the highest quality education and care for their children," she added.

Valuing practical knowledge

G8 Education’s Hayley Morrison, People and Culture Business Partner (WA/SA) Hayley Morrison said to have prior sector experience and Diploma study acknowledged to support the pathway to achieving a Bachelor’s Degree is a great opportunity.

"At G8 Education, our Educators bring extensive practical knowledge to the classroom and this fast-tracked pathway from Diploma to a Bachelor’s Degree is reflective of their passion, commitment and expertise," Ms Morrison said.

"The option to gain credits for their first year, provides a pathway and natural progression for those eager to advance their careers as Early Childhood Teachers," she added.

Anyone interested in learning more about the program can head to the website.