USQ responds to demand for early childhood teachers

In recent years, the benefits of giving children the best possible beginning to their lives through the provision of creative and nurturing environments during their most formative years, has become clear.

For children, the period up to 8 years of age is now recognised as the most critical stage in formative development and early childhood educators are a vital link in helping to set up life skills such as life-long learning abilities and suitable social, behavioural and health patterns.

In response to the growing demand for qualified early childhood educators the University of Southern Queensland (USQ) Springfield campus has now included the Early Childhood specialisation in their Bachelor of Education program.

Springfield Faculty of Education Associate Director Dr David Cleaver said the program, now accepting applications for Semester one 2009, was designed to prepare students for careers working with young children in a range of early childhood educational settings.

'Students completing the Early Childhood specialisation will have the skills to become professionals in child care, kindergarten, pre-schools and early primary school - years prep to three,' Dr Cleaver said.

'They will be qualified to design and deliver effective and creative teaching programs for children aged up to eight years of age.

'The career opportunities would also extend to teaching the English language overseas, working in community-based government children’s organisations, director of activities on cruise ships, directors of after school care, children’s director in holiday resorts, qualified nanny and many more.'

Dr Cleaver said early childhood teaching offered graduates a stimulating and rewarding career with a scope for creativity and innovation in the classroom.

'Through this program you really can make a difference in the lives of young people, by giving them the best possible start. Many people already working in childcare will have completed diplomas in this field and could be eligible for significant credits for the Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood) or its associated program, the Bachelor of Early Childhood.

'If you are passionate about teaching, then USQ Springfield now offers a number of teaching specialisations to suit your particular area of interest including Primary and Special Education and now Early Childhood.'

There is still time to apply for entry into the Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood) program for Semester one 2009. For further information visit www.usq.edu.au or phone 1800 269 500.

Media Contact:  Jo-Ann Sparrow, USQ Media, +61 7 3470 4119 or 0428 102 979