Childcare centres are places where parents can leave their young children to be cared for, entertained, and educated while they are at work or otherwise busy. They mostly cater to children under school age, including infants. Quality childcare is vital to building a child’s wellbeing, and so childcare centres offer a very valuable service.
Here are some things you can expect when working at a childcare centre:
- Working with kids – no matter your role, you’ll be working closely with children every day.
- A dynamic and high energy environment – kids require lots of attention and stimulation, so expect to be working on your feet and constantly on the move.
- High quality care is important – preventing accidents, providing appropriate nutrition, and maintaining good hygiene is vital to ensure children stay healthy and happy.
Key Outcome – care for and entertain young children
The main focus of childcare centres is to look after children while their parents are busy. They do this by providing care, supervision, entertainment, and in some cases basic education.
Key Tasks –
- Supervise and care for young children and infants
- Develop new activities and programs for children
- Keep parents updated on their child’s progress and wellbeing
- Manage enrolments and waiting lists
Industry
You can find childcare centres in the healthcare and social assistance, and education industries
Childcare centres are generally found in the healthcare and social assistance, and education industries. There are different kinds of childcare centres; some are privately owned and run, some are part of schools, and some have religious affiliations.
Work Environment
You can expect regular hours and on-site work
Flexible work hours | Work on-site | Jobs in all locations, including metro, regional, and rural | Strong job growth
Childcare centres are usually open from early in the mornings into the evenings, the usual times when parents are at work. Some may also open on weekends and holidays. Part-time roles are very common in this industry, giving some flexibility with your working hours.
Most of the work in a childcare centre needs to be done on-site. However, some administrative roles may be able to be done remotely.
There are childcare centres all across the country, from big cities to rural towns. There tends to be more demand in areas with higher population, but with many families choosing to stay in or move to regional and rural areas, demand for childcare in those areas is growing too.
The Career Clusters you’ll find in a childcare centre
You’ll find people from all the Clusters in a childcare centre, but the most common Clusters you’ll find are Guardians and Coordinators.
In any role, you’ll probably find yourself doing some tasks from other Clusters. For example, as a Child Carer you’ll be looking after kids, as well as organising toys and talking to parents.
