What is the first thing you would advise anyone considering working inteaching/childcare in Australia?
I would suggest they bring their original qualifications along with them, as this is required by most Australian States. I would also suggest bringing some resources from your home country as most centres love it when casual members teach the children something different about multiculturalism and their home country.
Is there a demand for, say, Nursery Nurses?
Yes, there is definitely a shortage of quality candidates to work in the teaching and childcare industry in Australia and New Zealand.
What sort of qualifications and documents are needed?
If a candidate wants to work as a qualified staff member, (known as Diploma Trained), they will have to hold a Nursery Nurse certificate, NVQ Level 3 or BTECH qualifications.
Do requirements differ between States?
Some states will not recognise certain qualifications. Contact the local recruitment agency, school, or kindergarten to find out what’s valid in your area.
What personal traits are looked for in potential candidates?
When recruiting Nursery Nurses and teachers, we look for people that have an outgoing personality. And of course, the candidate must love working with children.
Do you offer any training or courses?
We offer an induction session for candidates about the expectations when working in childcare centres.
What sorts of jobs do you recruit for?
We currently recruit childcare workers (Untrained Assistants), Certificate III Assistants, Diploma Trained, Nursery Nurses, NVQ Level 2 and 3, BTECH and Primary and Secondary Teachers.
What are the rates of pay? And what are the variables?
The pay is usually from $20 to $34 per hour. The pay depends on your previous experience and qualifications.
An Interview With A Nursery Nurse
Amy Matthews
25, UK
What made you decide to work in Australia?
I worked in childcare for seven years in the UK and wanted to work in Australia, so I thought I would use my skills and education in childcare.
How did you land your new job?
Word of mouth really. I sent an email to one of the education consultants and arranged an interview in Sydney.
And what exactly is it that you do now?
I work as a Nursery Nurse in a childcare centre located in the city centre.
What job did you have back home?
I worked as a nanny before heading to Sydney.
How does teaching in Australia compare to back home?
It’s pretty much the same as the UK.
How long do you plan to work in Australia for?
I am planning on working for one year on my Working Holiday Visa. Due to my visa restrictions I can only work for six months under one roof, but I can work for a total of one year.
Where have you travelled and worked so far, and what is your next destination?
I flew straight to Sydney and I have worked here for two months so far. I am planning a trip to Brisbane over Christmas.
How’s the pay?
I earn $25 per hour, which I’m pretty happy about.
What are the good points about your new job?
Childcare is a fun way to spend your Working Holiday Visa. It is a fun job in a relaxed atmosphere. And I really like the fact that I can afford to work only four days a week! I’m not stuck in an office either.
