As demand for childcare services across the state rises, TAFE NSW is delivering a pipeline of qualified early childhood educators to help fill the skills gap.

With families in NSW saving on childcare costs thanks to subsidies, and rising population levels, demand for quality services is surging.

Auburn local and Ukrainian migrant Antonina Boiko is one of many TAFE NSW graduates joining the booming field. After relocating to Australia in 2016, she completed a Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care and now works as an Educator Assistant at Greenwood Concord, with plans to study the Bachelor.

“I moved here from Ukraine with my husband to build a new life. I studied a master’s degree in management in my home country, but I’ve always loved to be around children. Being a mother and having experience with my own children, I thought ‘why not gain some training and industry experience?’” Ms Boiko said.

“My plan was to study here and then potentially go back to Ukraine to start my own family daycare, however we don’t know when the war will end or the economy will go back to normal, so I’ve decided to pursue a career here.

“While it was difficult juggling being a mother and wife with work and study, and not learning in my native language, studying at TAFE NSW was the best thing I’ve ever done. All of the teachers have industry experience and love what they do. They supported me to do everything I couldn’t do before. The course not only helped me to get a job, but has also helped me in my role as a mother.

TAFE NSW Head Teacher of Childhood Education and Care, Molly Dutta said TAFE NSW is committed to delivering a pipeline of skilled early childhood educators, like Antonina, to meet increased demand across the state.

“Early childhood educators play a crucial role in the development and care of children, and their work has never been more vital in our communities,” Mrs Dutta said.

“The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care provides students with the hands-on skills they need to make a real difference in children's lives. Through a mix of theory and practical work, students learn how to create stimulating and safe learning environments and nurture creativity in an early education and care setting.

“Our courses provide access to excellent facilities including simulated environments for skills training required for the sector. Our teachers have industry experience, so students gain the knowledge and confidence they need to excel in the high growth industry. No two days are the same in early childhood education, and the work is incredibly rewarding.”

Media contact: Emma Hughes, Communications Specialist, 0409 618 291, emma.hughes51@tafensw.edu.au

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