Step into the world of early childhood education, where the National Quality Framework (NQF) has set the stage. They set the standards for the number of early childhood qualified staff required in centre-based services catering to children who are preschool age and younger at any given time. This approach guarantees an optimal learning experience for each child, fostering an environment where education thrives. 

Centre-based services cover offerings such as long day care, preschools and kindergartens in most states and territories. Let’s delve into the essential details and the qualifications needed to shine in this field.

Diploma level educators

That is, people who have completed a Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care. They’re trained to work with Early Childhood Teachers (ECT), supporting the delivery of education. In centre-based services, at least 50% of educators must be diploma level qualified or higher or be actively working towards this qualification.

Certificate III level educators

In order to meet the relevant educator to child ratios, all other educators need to have or be actively working towards a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care. This is where they learn the core skills such as how to plan, implement and evaluate early childhood education and programs as well as support healthy meal times and encourage individual development of children.

Early Childhood Teacher

In centre-based services, engaging with an Early Childhood Teacher is based on the number of children who are coming to their service. 

Summary of ECT requirements

We’ve tailored the requirements of how much access to an ECT a centre requires based on the number of children attending at any given time. 

• Fewer than 25 children: 20% of the time.
• 25–59 children: Full-time or 6 hours per day (50+ hours) or 60% of the time (less than 50 hours).
• 60–80 children: Same as 25–59, with an additional requirement for a second ECT.
• More than 80 children: Similar to 60–80, with an additional requirement for a second ECT.

Early childhood teacher registration requirements

Registration is not a requirement for early childhood teachers (ECTs) under the National Quality Framework (NQF) however it’s required under some state and territory legislation.

For a deeper dive into the qualifications for centre-based services with children preschool age or under, Australian Children’s Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA).