Course description
Course Outline
This course prepares and develops competent qualified childcare personnel who are able to plan and provide care and education for infants and children up to 12 years of age in a variety of children’s services. Diploma level graduates take on senior positions in many children’s services centres.
Campuses
Berwick and Frankston
Course Duration and Commencement Dates
Berwick Campus Full Time 4 days per week for 2 years commencing May (Applications close April)
Full Time 4 days per week for 2 years commencing July (Applications close June)
Or
Frankston Campus Full Time 4 days per week for 2 years commencing February
(VTAC applications close September, late VTAC applications November)
Part Time 1 day per week for 3.5 years commencing February (Applications close September)
Late applications may be considered
Entrance Requirements
• Year 12 (VCE) or
• Mature age applicants (over 18 and who have been out of full time secondary school for at least 12 months) or
• Applicants who are already working in a child care centre or
• Applicants who have completed some training and wish to upgrade or complete their qualifications;
• Working with Children/Police checks will be required for practicum
Application Procedure
Berwick Campus, Apply directly to Chisholm Institute.
Frankston Campus Full Time study apply through VTAC and complete a Children’s Services application
Part Time apply directly to Chisholm Institute.
Selection Criteria
A selection process is conducted prior to course entry. Applicants will be required to:
• Submit an application form;
• Attend an information session
• Sit the entry test
• Attend an interview
Recognition of Prior Qualification and Experience
Where applicants can show evidence of prior qualification or experience in a related field, they may apply for RLP (Recognition of Prior Learning) or Credit Transfer consideration.
Study Areas
• Guide the establishment of a safe environment;
• Work within a legal and ethical framework;
• Work effectively with culturally diverse clients and co-workers;
• Use music as a medium to enhance children’s experience and development;
• Provide experiences which enhance children’s development and learning;
• Establish and implement plans for developing responsible behaviour;
• Implement and promote inclusive policies and practices;
• Plan the inclusion of children with additional needs;
• Manage workplace OHS management systems;
• Coordinate the work environment;
• Design, implement and evaluate programs of the service;
• Observe children and interpret observations;
• Work in partnership with families;
• Apply advanced first aid
Assessment
• Observation in class by teacher
• Workplace observation by assessor
• Interviews to assess underpinning knowledge and competence
• Evidence folios collated by students to prove competence
• Written tests in class
• Reports, essays and assignments
• Oral presentations
• Resource folders developed by students
Employment Opportunities
Child Care Centres, Occasional Care Centres, Kindergartens, Nanny, Before and After School Care,
School Holiday Programs, Family Day Care through Local Government
Further Study
Extra studies may be completed to gain an Advanced Diploma. Graduates may apply for studies and gain credits into Early Childhood courses at Melbourne, Monash and Victoria Universities.
