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Play your part in their flying start

There's never been a better time to explore a career in early childhood.

Careers in early childhood are taking off

3-year-old preschool has begun rolling out across South Australia.

As an early childhood educator or teacher, you have the opportunity to make a meaningful difference to a child’s development in their foundational years.

With new financial and wrap around supports available while you study or upskill, now is the time to take the leap towards a fulfilling and flexible career in early childhood.

Get ready to play your part in their flying start.

Read on for further information.

Please note:  the role of the Office for Early Childhood Development is to steward the early childhood development system in South Australia. We are not a higher education provider. If you have specific questions related to early childhood courses, we recommend contacting the relevant tertiary education institutions for assistance.

  • Investing in teachers and educators
    A skilled and well-supported early childhood education workforce is critical to delivering an early childhood system that gives children the best possible start.
    Read more

  • I'm a school student
    Get an early start on your early childhood career while you’re still at school. If you’re in years 10 to 13, you can study a diploma to become an educator or study at uni to become a teacher.
    Read more

  • I'm considering a career change
    If you’re thinking of a new career, returning to the workforce after some time away, or ready for your next challenge - a career in early childhood education might be for you. Make a meaningful impact as a highly skilled early childhood educator or teacher, and play a vital role in the physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development of children.
    Read more

  • I want to take the next step
    Upskill and grow your career while continuing your impactful work. Build on your certificate III, and become a diploma qualified educator. Build on your diploma, and upskill to become a teacher with a university pathway.
    Read more

  • I'm interested in career pathways for Aboriginal peoples
    The Office for Early Childhood Development's Aboriginal Workforce Strategy aims to increase the number of Aboriginal teachers and educators working in the early childhood sector.
    Read more

  • Early Childhood Teacher Incentives
    South Australia is investing $56 million in the early childhood education and care workforce, which is critical to the delivery of our vision for the early childhood system.
    Read more

  • Multi-disciplinary workforce
    The South Australian Government is investing $3.4 million over 2 years in a series of initiatives to build the state’s early childhood multi-disciplinary workforce.
    Read more
A female educator smiling at one of her little students

Financial support is available to help while you study

*Financial support is open to eligible South Australian residents only. Conditions apply.

Payments for this round of funding will be calculated on 1 May 2026. Eligible students currently studying are encouraged to apply before this date to receive financial support for this round.  Applications will remain open, and the next round of funding will be calculated and paid after 31 August 2026.

Find out more

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