Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood and Primary)

Workplace learning

Professional experience in early childhood and primary school settings is a vital component of the program, comprising five subjects in the course.

From first year to fourth year, students gradually assume more responsibility for planning, teaching and management of classroom settings, as they progress through a range of experiences. This part of the course aims to enable students to develop an understanding of various early childhood services and the school system. It helps students to plan and implement learning experiences for young children under the guidance of an experienced teacher. Settings include those for children under three, three to five years, the first years of school, and middle and upper primary classes.

Opportunities exist for placement in a range of locations. Students undertake placements in both under fives and primary settings in the final professional experience in Session 8. These experiences are supported by qualified staff in the teaching setting and by University supervisors.

National Criminal Record Check

Students may be required to undergo a criminal record check and/or complete a Prohibited Employment Declaration under the Child Protection Act 1998 as part of professional experience requirements. These checks are intended to identify people who might, because of convictions for such things as violence or sexual offences, put students/clients' personal safety or health at risk. Traffic violations and other minor offences are not of interest.

As such, prospective students should be aware that an inability to obtain a criminal record clearance or complete a Prohibited Employment Declaration may limit practicum opportunities in some organisations and industries. Furthermore, criminal convictions involving violence or sexual offences may limit continued enrolment in a course and/or employment opportunities after completing the course.

If you have any queries regarding these matters, including the opportunities available for review of a particular case, contact the Course Director.