Course Location and Contact Information

Course Description

This course is designed to provide the theoretical knowledge and practical skills required for the provision of care and education of infants and young children 0 - 6 years in long day care, occasional child care or kindergartens.

To demonstrate the practical skills acquired, students need to complete supervised practicums in a variety of settings. These practicums give the students the opportunity to consolidate their learning and demonstrate ability to adapt their practice to the needs of children of different ages and in various settings, and to meet the needs of families.

Career Opportunities

Graduates are considered to be a Level 2 Trained Child Care Assistant on completion of the course. Work involves caring for infants and young children up to 6 years of age generally under the direct supervision of a qualified child care worker, or independently, depending on the type of children's service.

Course Duration

Full-time: 7 Months, 4 days per week
Part-time: Up to 18 months

Course Commencement Dates

February and April.

Entrance Requirements

There are four entry categories:
1. Applicants who are already working in a child care centre.
2. Applicants who have completed some training and wish to upgrade or complete their qualifications. (Applicants must provide documentation of training completed)
3. Mature age applicants (over 18 years and who have been out of full time secondary school for at least 12 months)
4. School leavers / VCAL students.

All applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Demonstrate interest in, knowledge of, and suitability for work in the children's services field.
  
• Have physical and psychological health necessary to meet course requirements including practicum. (Successful applicants will be asked to complete a medical health form.)
  
• Demonstrate maturity including ability to be responsible for the care and education of children.
  
• Be able to read and comprehend course requirements.
  Be able to express themselves fluently verbally and in writing.
  

For further information and/or an Application and Enrolment Pack, contact Child Studies on:
+61 3 9269 8340.

Application Procedures

Apply directly to the department . Applicants who meet the selection criteria will be interviewed.

Application Procedure

Skills Recognition - Exemptions/Transfers

Students may be eligible for exemptions/transfers on the basis of previous qualifications.

Pathways to Further Study

Students who successfully complete this course may apply to articulate into the Diploma of Children's Services through the diploma application / selection process.

Course Outline

This course is divided into NMIT 'on the job' and 'off the job' course requirements.

CHCCHILD1C Identify and Respond to Children and Young People at Risk of Harm (50 hrs)
CHCCS301A Work with a Legal and Ethical Framework (50 hrs)
CHCORG3B Participate in the Work Environment (20 hrs)
CHCOHS301A Participate in Workplace Safety Procedures (30 hrs)
HLTFA2 Apply Advanced First Aid (30 hrs)
CHCIC1C Interact Effectively with Children (70 hrs)
CHCRF1B Work Effectively with Families to Care for the Child (25 hrs)
CHCCN1C Ensure Children's Health and Safety (30 hrs)
CHCCN2C Care for Children (70 hrs)
CHCCN4C Respond to Illness, Accidents and Emergencies (30 hrs)
CHCFC1B Support the Development of Children in the Service (40 hrs)
CHCPRIC Deliver Services/Activities to Stimulate Children's Development and Enhance Children's Development (40 hrs)
CHCPR2C Arrange/Organise Experiences which Facilitate and Enhance Children's Development (80 hrs)
CHCPR3C Develop an Understanding of Children's Interests and Developmental Needs (20 hrs)
CHCCS405A Work Effectively with Culturally Diverse Clients and Co-workers (30 hrs)

Assessment Methods

Assessment for each competency will be through a combination of 'on the job' (practicum) and 'off the job' tasks. 'Off the job' assessment is a combination of the following:
Class exercises

• Assignments
• Tests
• Practical demonstrations

Materials

Booklist provided on enrolment.

Qualification

As part of the Australian Qualifications Framework this program is nationally recognised. On successful completion students will be awarded with the Certificate III in Children's Services.

Links

The Victorian Government makes a significant contribution to these programs.