Working with children can be incredibly rewarding. As you help kids discover the world around them, you experience their wonder and excitement too. It is never a boring job, everyday is different and you have to be on your toes to keep up with the children.   There are many job opportunities for those wanting to work with children. The main career paths are in child care, education, child health, and community-based activities.    To work with children you need to complete a state or territory child-safe check and, for most occupations, you need a qualification. This might be direct child-centred study or, depending on the role you’re looking for, you could look at attaining an early childcare diploma in Australia and enter the industry through an indirect route.   Continue reading to learn more about the child-related careers available so you can make an informed choice when deciding what role is best for you.

Child care

 

Centre-based childcare 

The fundamental role of working in child care is supervising and nurturing the children in your care. More specifically, the role entails planning activities guided by the Early Years Learning Framework, tracking social and physical development, reporting to parents, providing nutritious food, helping children with toileting, and making the environment fun and safe. Childcare centres are generally for infants and children up to 4 years of age.    To work in a childcare environment, you need at least a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care, along with a safety check and first aid certification.   Out of school hours care (OSHC) operates before and after school and is for school-aged children. They generally operate on school grounds and most are through private companies.   

Support work

The National Disability and Insurance Scheme supports people living with disability. This includes funding support workers for those who need one.    Supporting a child with disability might include self-care (bathing, dressing, eating, toileting), general support in the home, and accessing the community for healthcare appointments or for social activities.    You may not need any formal qualification or training, depending on the role and employer, but you will need the child-safe government check.

The education sector

 

Kindergarten and school teacher

For some, being a teacher has been a lifelong career goal, for others, the desire to teach has come later in life, often after having children.   Teachers must have a university degree in teaching, whether that’s in early childhood (kindergarten), primary, or secondary education. The relevant qualification can be obtained at a graduate or postgraduate level.    In different parts of Australia teachers are in short supply, check with your state or territory education department to see if there are incentives to undertake a teaching career.  

Education assistant (EA)

Variously called teacher’s aides, education supports or classroom helpers, the role of an education assistant is to support an individual child, or a small group, with their learning. Generally the focus student will have a disability, learning delays or severe behaviour difficulties.   EA staff are not teachers so a degree is not necessary for the role. Instead, a Certificate III (or higher) in an education support course is generally required but, as always, check the rules in your state or territory.

Health

 

Allied health practitioners

The main allied health professionals that work with children are occupational therapists, speech therapists, psychologists and physiotherapists. All allied health professionals require a university degree in their relevant field.   State and territory education departments generally employ speech therapists, social workers and psychologists that service a region of schools, at a primary and secondary level. Predominantly though, allied health services operate through private practices.  

Paediatricians

Medical doctors that specialise in the health and development of children are called paediatricians and may work in hospitals, community health, and/or private practice.   It takes between eight and ten years of study and practical experience to become a paediatrician so it is not for the fainthearted! However, it is a rewarding career that helps a diverse range of children live healthier and happier lives.

Extracurricular opportunities

 

Creative activities

If you have a particular skill set, perhaps in a musical instrument, art or chess, you might consider teaching your skills to children. It’s a fun way to share your passion with others and it is very fulfilling to see your students progress.   You can operate independently or as part of a private company and, depending on the organisation, clientele and your experience, you may not need any formal qualifications.  

Community activities

To be involved in some child-focused activities you may need to have children of your own. Others, such as coaching a sports team, working in a rock-climbing centre, or even as a Scout leader, are open to anyone with the right experience and knowledge.   At an amateur level, most of these roles are unpaid, but depending on your level of expertise you may be able to turn a hobby into a paid career. All adults, whether they be a parent, volunteer or paid employee must have a Working With Children Check.   ~   Whether you’re looking to coach your local under 10s soccer team or take on an educator role at a childcare centre, working with children in any capacity will require a passionate desire to make a positive impact on young people as they learn and grow. With so many career options available, if you have the passion and the relevant training, you are sure to find a job you enjoy!