Work placements are the best way to learn

The Gordon has teamed up with Elements Childcare and Early Learning Centre to optimise students learning and working experience.

Elements is one of many early education centres supporting Gordon students. Farryn Burrill, Elements Operations Manager, relishes the opportunity to place Gordon students in one of their four centres across Greater Geelong. 

"We love Gordon students! They come to us prepared to work and have a sound understanding of what they will be doing before they arrive for their placement", said Ms Burrill. 

Work placement is the best way to comprehend how a centre operates. Providing 120 to 240 hours of work placement ensures students have the skills required to be great early childhood educators. Gordon student Emily Barlett agrees. 

"The best part of student placement is being surrounded by industry professionals who guide and support you every step of the way. A highlight for me was learning from real-life scenarios, such as engaging with children and educators in a group or assisting educators during mealtime with children. These scenarios are ones you only physically experience whilst on placement, which is one of the many reasons these are such fantastic learning opportunities", shared Ms Barlett.

With over 900 children across Elements centres, students need to hit the ground running. Exposed to the everyday routine of the centres, students learn from scenarios, including navigating family demands, interacting with children and working within a dynamic and fluid team.

Work placement also lets students find a rhythm with the children, nurturing their learning and fine motor skills while understanding how the learning programs work best for each child. 

"At Elements, we are always on the lookout for people who have a genuine love for working with children. When we ask people why they want to work in childcare, we look beyond hiring those who state, "I like kids". 

"Early childhood education and care is far more than that. We know that Gordon graduates have the passion, enthusiasm and quality training to become wonderful educators and team members who are dedicated to the learning and development of each child", shared Ms Burrill.

Demand for early childhood educators is at an all-time high, so studying at TAFE or taking on a traineeship is the best way to kickstart your career in childcare. 

Ms Burrill, who completed a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care, has continued developing her qualifications. 

"There are amazing opportunities for career progression if you choose. We encourage team members to continue with a diploma to create the opportunity to lead a room, become an educational leader or further their pathways to university", said Ms Burrill.

"We would love to see more men enter the sector too. They bring a different level of energy to the room. We see great connections being formed, and it gives children the opportunity to see that not all early childhood educators are women”, continued Ms Burrill.

If you are interested in completing a qualification that leads to working in the childcare sector or are looking to add to your current certificate, visit thegordon.edu.au.