Carving out a career in school age education

Wednesday, April 20, 2022

Practical Outcomes’ graduate Jen, was looking for a change of pace from her career in the creative arts industry where she worked as a children’s photographer. It was a chance encounter with a friend who was expanding from running school holiday programs to also providing before and after school care that saw Jen take a chance on a new opportunity.

New qualifications for a new career

A role in school age education and outside school hours care (OSHC) meant gaining the necessary qualifications to work in the sector. Whether you’re switching careers like Jen or upskilling in your existing sector, choosing a registered training provider who can deliver a top tier training experience and can make a difference to your study outcomes.

After initially commencing qualifications with a different provider and feeling disappointed with the experience, Jen found that Practical Outcomes made it simple and enjoyable to gain the qualifications she needed for her new career in School Age Education and Care (SAEC).

The CHC50221 Diploma of School Age Education and Care covers everything you need to know to shine as an educator in the SAEC sector. This includes working in partnership with families, taking a holistic approach to wellbeing and development, and creating a nurturing and safe space for children to learn.

It also prepares you for advancing your career — you’ll learn management competencies to support you in becoming a lead educator and mentoring others in your team.

Trainers who have your back

To get the most from your studies, having someone who can guide and support you along the way is invaluable. Practical Outcomes learners each have a dedicated trainer who is an expert in the sector. This trainer will be there every step of the way, whether it’s for a quick chat on the phone for clarity on an assignment, or an in-person meet up to talk about the coursework. Whatever you need to help you undertake your training successfully, your trainer has got your back.

This experience is certainly true for Jen, who says:

“Two years on from completing my studies, I still have a great relationship with my trainer, Andrea! This great supportive network created means I refer all of our new employees who need to do a course to Practical Outcomes.”

Split shifts and educating with passion

A career in OSHC is unique in that it offers its employees the ability to work a split shift — that is, the morning (before school care) following by having the middle part of the day to yourself before returning to work in the afternoon (after school care). If you’re after a lifestyle that enables you to have more freedom during the day, this could be a good choice for you.

Jen is now continuing her study journey and career working with school aged children by undertaking a Bachelor of Education degree, and notes that OSHC is not just a job, it’s a career. There is plenty of progression and growth for great educators.

She also believes that the sector needs more passionate educators:

“We need educators who want to make a difference and are dedicated to the lives of these children. You play such an important role in their lives, as the bridge between home and school.”