• For Jobseekers
  • For companies

Become a preschool teacher in Australia

Unlock your potential as a preschool teacher in Australia! This comprehensive guide walks you through the necessary educational qualifications, expected salary ranges, key skills to cultivate, and promising career opportunities in early childhood education. Whether you're passionate about nurturing young minds or seeking a fulfilling career change, discover everything you need to know to embark on this rewarding journey.

To become a preschool teacher in Australia, one must first obtain a qualification in early childhood education. This can be achieved by completing a Certificate III or Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care, or a Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood). These courses can be completed at TAFE or university, and typically take between one and four years to complete.

Once the qualification has been obtained, the next step is to gain practical experience in a preschool setting. This can be done through work placement or by securing a job as an assistant educator. It is important to gain experience working with children aged 0-5 years old, as this is the age range typically found in preschools.

After gaining practical experience, the next step is to apply for a position as a preschool teacher. This may involve submitting a resume and cover letter, attending an interview, and providing references. It is important to demonstrate a passion for working with young children, as well as a strong understanding of early childhood development and education.

Once employed as a preschool teacher, ongoing professional development is important to maintain and improve skills and knowledge. This can be achieved through attending workshops, conferences, and further study.

In summary, to become a preschool teacher in Australia, one must obtain a qualification in early childhood education, gain practical experience, apply for a position, and engage in ongoing professional development.

Become a preschool teacher

Get started

How long does it take to become a preschool teacher in Australia?

Becoming a preschool teacher in Australia typically takes about 3 to 4 years. This includes completing a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field, followed by any required practical placements. For those with a diploma in early childhood education, the pathway may be shorter, often around 1 to 2 years to meet additional qualifications or requirements.

Australia preschool teacher salary

In Australia, preschool teachers can expect to earn an average salary ranging from AUD 60,000 to AUD 75,000 per year, depending on their level of experience, qualifications, and location. In metropolitan areas, salaries may be higher due to the cost of living and demand for early childhood educators. Additionally, those with specialized skills or roles in management can see salaries exceed AUD 80,000. The field offers competitive pay, especially for those who continue to develop their expertise and pursue further education.

What does a preschool teacher do?

A preschool teacher plays a vital role in the early development of children, typically ranging from ages 3 to 5. They create engaging and stimulating learning environments that foster emotional, social, and cognitive growth. Daily tasks include planning and implementing a curriculum that incorporates play-based learning, art, music, and basic literacy and numeracy skills. Preschool teachers also focus on nurturing children's communication skills, encouraging them to express themselves and interact positively with peers. They assess each child's progress, address individual needs, and maintain open communication with parents about their child's development. Building a safe and inclusive space where children feel valued and supported is essential, as is fostering a love for learning that sets the foundation for their future educational journey.

Free Personality tests

All of the following assessment tools explore an individual's personality thoroughly, although the Big5 is the gold standard among personality assessments. And what’s key is that are all available for free here:

Check out our remote job board

Get started