Become an early childhood teacher
This information relates to teachers delivering specific learning programs, usually within long day care or kindergarten services.
Courses and qualifications
All long day care and kindergarten services with children under school age must have access to a qualified early childhood teacher or have one in attendance at the service.
Visit the Australian Children’s Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA) website if you are already studying or have finished your course and want to check it against the national requirements. A fee is charged to have your qualifications assessed if they do not appear on the lists of approved qualifications.
Course requirements
Studying education at university level (e.g. a Bachelor degree) is usually required if you want to become an early childhood teacher.
You should choose a course on the ACECQA list of approved early childhood teaching qualifications.
You can read about tertiary entrance.
Search for courses at your chosen university or with the Queensland Tertiary Admissions Centre (QTAC). Once you have chosen your course, you must apply through QTAC for entry.
Already a registered primary or secondary teacher?
If you hold a primary or secondary teaching qualification, a teacher registration in Australia and an ACECQA approved certificate III level (or higher) early childhood education and care qualification from ACECQA's list of approved qualifications, you will be recognised as an 'equivalent early childhood teacher'.
Employment
Jobs are usually advertised in newspapers and online job sites.
Find childcare contacts for advice on job opportunities and industry news.
Registration
Registration is not compulsory for early childhood teachers working in early childhood services in Queensland, other than in the case of primary or secondary teachers with an ACECQA approved certificate III level (or higher) early childhood education and care qualification. However, any teacher employed in a Queensland school (including Prep to Year 3 teachers) does need to be registered with the Queensland College of Teachers.
You must have a blue card to work with children in Queensland. This involves a police check. A fee is charged to apply.
Note: This blue card is not recognised anywhere else in Australia nor are Working With Children Checks issued interstate recognised in Queensland.