Gold Coast, Australia – A growing number of early childhood educators are making the shift from childcare to adult education, with Plenty Training, a leading Registered Training Organisation (RTO), crediting a lack of career progression and professional recognition as key drivers of the trend.
"Childcare educators are essential to the needs of our growing population and provide a valuable service in shaping young minds during their most formative years," said Ashleigh Ridley, Operations Manager for Plenty Training.
"It's unfortunate that so many feel undervalued and stuck, but the transition into training and assessment is giving them a new outlet to educate others, make a bigger impact, and reconnect with the profession they once loved," she said.
Student of Plenty Training and early childhood educator Amy L. said that juggling her own work with children and coming home to mother each day was not only mentally taxing but physically demanding as well.
"Unfortunately, it doesn't come with the same pay scale or holiday benefits that primary or high school teachers get," Amy said. "That really took a toll on my wellbeing and made me feel like I had to choose between my own family and a career I loved."
"Improving the environment and education of young children is something that's always been important to me. Moving into the training and assessment industry means I can affect change on a greater level and improve the quality of care across multiple centres – not just my own," she said.
According to the Future of the Early Childhood Education Profession – Extended Report 2024 by Jobs and Skills Australia, the current early childhood workforce would need to grow by an estimated 8% to meet current unmet demand, and an additional 8% to meet the shortfall of qualified workers. Compounding this shortage is the reality that many educators feel "stuck" in their roles due to limited progression opportunities and a lack of recognition for their skills and experience.
The TAE40122 Certificate IV in Training and Assessment is providing an accessible career pivot for childcare professionals who are passionate about education but looking for more meaningful progression, higher earning potential, and increased job satisfaction. The qualification enables them to train and mentor others entering the early childhood sector, helping lift industry standards and morale from within.
"Educators who move into training and assessment roles can extend their impact beyond the classroom," Ms. Ridley added. "They help shape the next generation of professionals and contribute to building a more respected and sustainable future for the industry."
Plenty Training is currently offering discounted enrolments for childcare educators towards the TAE40122 Certificate IV in Training and Assessment in a bid to recognise their contribution to the education sector and support their transition into roles that offer greater progression and impact.
