The early years of life are a time of rapid brain development as the foundations of learning and development are laid. High quality early childhood education makes a difference to the lives of young children during their prior-to-school years and the early years of schooling. As an ECE student you will focus on the education and care of children aged from birth to eight and throughout the primary school years, learning about development, behaviour and wellbeing. Course overview Early Childhood Education (ECE) study areas include: child development, learning, behaviour, wellbeing, curriculum and pedagogy for the diversity of learners and learning needs within the early years. You will develop specialist skills needed for teaching in rural and remote areas and you will be at the forefront of education for sustainability. Our program also focuses on ensuring you have the skills to help improve Indigenous education outcomes. JCU’s ECE course allows you to complete your degree via external study (online) or through a mix of studying online and on campus. Please see the Handbook for further details. Please note that some subjects are only available online in this course. Mid-year entry is also available. If you already hold a Certificate III or Diploma in Children's Services, you can receive credit for these qualifications - this may shorten the time it takes to complete your teaching degree. Course highlights Gaining professional experience is an integral part of the Early Childhood Education at JCU, and commences in your first year of study. Overall you will experience 100 days of workplace learning in a range of early childhood (prior to school) and school locations. We draw on our strong partnerships in a variety of educational settings to organise suitable placements for you in a variety of venues. Upon completion of the degree, you will have gained a rich variety of professional experience that includes both prior to school and school settings. JCU’s courses are designed to meet the demand for teachers in regional, rural, and remote areas. All students are required to attend a compulsory 5-day on-campus intensive Professional Orientation Program at either the Cairns or Townsville campuses in their final year of study. This intensive program prepares you for your transition to teaching. Career opportunities As a JCU Education graduate, you will have the skills and qualifications to seek employment across Australia and beyond. Early Childhood Education is a specialised field of education that leads to work in schools, preschools, kindergartens and childcare centres. A typical day is active and rewarding, involves indoor and outdoor work, and may require after-school hours. Career opportunities have been increasing since national regulations came into effect in 2014. The Australian Government’s statistical service reports that employment for Early Childhood teachers is expected to continue its growth. This course is nationally accredited through the Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership(AITSL) in association with the Queensland College of Teachers (QCT). Graduates Off this course are eligible for Teacher registration in Australia. The Bachelor of Education (ECE) is also fully accredited with ACECQA, which is the Australian Children's Education and Care Quality Authority.