Course code: HE20539V01

Undergraduate Certificate in Foundations of Early Childhood Education

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Overview About this course

The TAFE NSW Undergraduate Certificate in Foundations of Early Childhood Education combines theoretical learning with real life practical skills. You’ll get a taste of what it’s like to work in the early childhood industry as you learn how to provide a learning environment for pre-school aged children. From creating stimulating play environments to documenting developmental milestones and implementing health and safety procedures, this is a great course to prepare you for further study in this field. With further study, you can work as a teacher in pre-schools and long day care, or gain employment in various roles in the children’s and family services sector.

Course duration

6 months full time or 1 year part time

Outcomes What you'll gain

Learning outcomes

Through a mixture of theory and practical course work, learn to:

  • Communicate effectively with children and families
    Set up play environments, observe behaviours and document children’s learning
    Create learning resources for children to encourage their development
    Design menus for children to meet recommended nutritional guidelines

Course outcomes

Develop specialist skills to gain an advantage in the job market

  • Graduate with an Undergraduate Certificate in Foundations of Early Childhood Education in 15 weeks
    The ability to develop positive, responsive relationships with children and families
    The skills and knowledge to ensure the health and safety of children and develop and design learning resources
    Recognition of prior learning for the Bachelor of Early Childhood Education and Care (Birth-5). The 4 subjects studied in the undergraduate certificate will be recognised and credited towards the bachelor’s qualification, with a fee-deduction

Suitability Is this course right for you?

Entry requirements

This course requires evidence of previous experience or study before you can enrol

Entry recommendations

To be prepared for this course, we recommend that you have:

  • An interest in working with children and their families across a range of service types
    Interpersonal skills to communicate with children and family members
    The ability to work as part of a collaborative team
    High energy, commitment and dedication to your career
    Decision making skills and the ability to respond and act quickly in situations
    A PC or laptop with good internet access to attend live online sessions, access your study materials and complete and submit your assessments. You can access this equipment on a TAFE NSW campus however, we highly recommend you have your own equipment available. Online learning environments are accessible on mobile, but you will need a PC or laptop at times.

You do not require an ATAR score for entry into this course.

If you are unable to meet the entry requirements, you may be eligible for special admission.

Please continue with your application and you will be guided to identify as mature aged (at least 21 years old in your first year of study) or disadvantaged (disability, serious or chronic illness, interrupted education, lack of support for study, serious personal problems and/or serious family responsibilities). Please contact us to find out more.

TAFE NSW is committed to meeting the learning needs of every community. Meeting these needs can mean there are additional entry requirements at different campus locations. Check your preferred location for further requirements. If you need help preparing for study, contact us to find out how we can support you.

Pathways Future career and study options

Career pathways

Our graduates go onto roles like: early childhood teacher when you go on to complete the Bachelor of Early Education and Care.

Licensing

In order to work in the childcare industry, you must complete a First Aid certificate including CPR, Anaphylaxis and Asthma Awareness training to meet WorkCover requirements. Additionally, all students must have participated in Child Protection Awareness Training (induction) when commencing their roles. This is a short course that focuses on recognising and responding to suspected risk of harm to children and young people resulting from parents or carers. The course code is: CHCPRT001 – Identify and Respond to Children and Young People at Risk. A Working With Children Check (WWCC) and any vaccinations and health screenings are also essential requirements before you begin working in the industry. Childcare licensing requirements vary from state to state.

Study pathways

Take your study further with other courses offered at TAFE NSW:

Previous study 1 Course

Alternative pathways into this course

Further study 1 Course

Advance your skills to take your career to the next level

Related study 0 Courses

Strengthen your expertise and expand your employability

The Undergraduate Certificate in Foundations of Early Childhood Education does not have any related courses.

Your experience counts

At TAFE NSW, we recognise your previous study and work experience. You can apply for recognition of prior learning (https://www.tafensw.edu.au/enrol/recognition-credit-transfers) or a credit transfer with any of our courses. If you're successful you'll get your qualification faster.

Subjects Subjects in this course

Completion of this course requires you to successfully complete 4 subjects (40 credit points) made up of 4 core subjects.

Core Subjects

    Elective Subjects

      Note: Some courses offer the opportunity to choose subjects from the complete suite of Higher Education electives that are delivered by TAFE NSW. Once you’ve enrolled, contact your Course Coordinator to discuss tailoring your course to align with your interests and goals.

      TAFE NSW services Facilities and support

      TAFE NSW provides support services across all campus locations and online. Whatever your needs or circumstances, we have the people, resources, counselling and facilities to support you in focusing on your studies.

      • TAFE NSW Disability Support Service

      • TAFE NSW Language, Literacy and Numeracy (LLN) support

      • TAFE NSW Aboriginal Support; Learner support (ABE)

      • TAFE NSW Careers, Counselling and Pathways Service

      • TAFE NSW Libraries

      • Scholarship programs – be supported as you explore your talents and fulfil your potential

      • Smarthinking - online access to a tutor

      • LinkedIn Learning – an online resource which offers innovative courses and tutorials to improve your personal and professional skills

      • Student associations – get social with our student community

      Delivery options Find a location to enrol

      On campus, online and blended study environments; at TAFE NSW your learning works with your lifestyle. Heart your favourites, compare courses and discover what works for you.