Dubbo local and TAFE NSW student, Rebekah Mealey is encouraging others to consider a rewarding career in early education and care as newly released figures reveal a high demand for skilled early childhood workers in NSW.

According to research carried out by Australia’s leading training provider, TAFE NSW, by 2021 the early childhood education and care industry in NSW is set to increase by 13.9%. The Australian Government Jobs Outlook data suggests that now is the perfect time to be pursuing a career in this industry with more than 36,000 job openings forecasted Australia-wide by 2022.

Ms Mealey began her exciting career in the early childhood and education industry by studying a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care through TAFE Western Connect at TAFE NSW Wellington where she now lives.

“Studying from TAFE NSW Wellington is so convenient. I am able to study by video conference, which allows me to be closer to home and not have to travel to Dubbo or Orange,” Ms Mealey said.

“Working with children is the most rewarding role. Being a positive influence on children’s lives is something I’m so passionate about.

“I am also working in the industry and I’m able to practice what I’m learning through my role at Barnardos Australia Wellington, where I work at the Yalmambirra Learning Centre (YLC) on the Home Interaction Parenting Program for Parents and Youngsters (HIPPY).”

Yalmambirra Learning Centre Coordinator, Thea Dorin, was full of praise for Rebekah’s dedication and commitment to the organisation and her TAFE NSW studies.

“Rebekah’s role involves provided one-on-one tutoring to 10-12 children over an eight week term,” Ms Dorin said.

“I believe Rebekah’s TAFE NSW studies have helped her develop hands-on skills and gain an understanding of working in a child friendly environment and has allowed her to confidently execute her daily duties.

“Some of her duties include prepping healthy meals, setting up afternoon activities and reading with the children. Rebekah also contributes to planning educational and cultural activities of her choice, she is a wonderful asset to the organisation.”

Ms Mealey added, “After I complete the Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care, I plan on studying a Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care, Community Services and Disability Services to fully equip me with the skills needed to be able to work with children who need support to give them the best opportunities in life.”

To find out more about studying early childhood education and care at TAFE NSW, phone 13 16 01 or visit www.tafensw.edu.au.

Media contact: Emma Curtis, TAFE NSW Media Officer, (02) 6338 2509, mobile 0427 901 515