Career Tasters offer hands-on pathway into early childhood education
Year 10 students in Mackay stepped into the shoes of early childhood educators, where they gained practical experiences and valuable career insights through CQUniversity's Early Years and Education Support Career Taster.
The five-day program gave students the opportunity to explore the realities of working with children: from planning learning activities and understanding child development to preparing formula bottles, changing nappies and learning how educators support children's growth and wellbeing.
Facilitated at CQU’s Mackay City campus by Loretta Watling, the Taster was designed to provide students with an authentic introduction to careers in early childhood education and education support through hands-on learning experiences.
Students worked through practical activities that mirror the everyday responsibilities of educators, culminating in planning and leading their own learning session.
Ms Watling said the program helped students move beyond preconceived ideas about the profession and gain a deeper understanding of the skills and responsibilities involved.
"Many students come into the program knowing they enjoy spending time with children, but they leave with a much clearer understanding of what educators do every day and the important role they play in children's learning and development," Ms Watling said.
"The hands-on activities give students confidence while helping them discover whether this career path is right for them."
For student Marlee Bradbury, the program offered an engaging glimpse into a potential future career.
"Career Tasters was really good. We did lots of fun activities and it's helped us understand what working in early childhood education looks like," Marlee said.
Students said their experiences in caring for children and their desire to make a positive difference in young people's lives motivated them to participate in the program and explore the career pathway further.
Jaimee Waters said her interest in working with children began at a young age.
"I grew up around kids and looking after them,” Jaimee said.
“My mum worked in a gym, and I would go with her on weekends and school holidays and hung out with the kids [in creche]. I think that's where I got my dream from."
While pursuing a future in early childhood education is one possibility, Jaimee said the Career Tasters program had also opened her eyes to other support-focused careers.
"If early childhood isn't for me, I might be interested in residential youth and disability support work," she said.
"I'd like to make kids feel like they're okay and be someone they can turn to for support.”
Student Echo Hankin is also considering a future as an educator, inspired by several family members already working in education.
"I've learned a lot about how to make formula, how to change nappies, and even how to read stories to children, either from a book or making up your own,” Echo said.
Throughout the week, students explored topics including child development, behaviour guidance, first aid awareness and supporting children's learning through play. Many said learning about children's developmental stages, preparing formula and caring for infants had been particularly eye-opening experiences.
The Early Years and Education Support Career Taster is one of a range of CQUniversity Career Tasters designed to help secondary students explore vocational pathways and make informed decisions about their future study and career options.
Students interested in exploring a career in early childhood education or education support can apply for the next Early Years and Education Support Career Tasters, commencing in September at CQUniversity’s Emerald, Mackay Ooralea, and Rockhampton North campuses.
Career Tasters is available to eligible Year 10 students across Queensland and is a joint initiative of the Australian Government and Queensland Government.
For more information and to apply, visit the Early Years and Education Support Career Taster webpage.
