The NSW Government is creating opportunities for our invaluable and dedicated early childhood education and care (ECEC) workforce to extend their qualifications. This accelerated pathway program is one of many initiatives designed to support, engage and uplift ECEC educators.

The program was co-designed with the Department of Education, the University of Wollongong (UOW) and the Early Learning and Care Council of Australia (ELACCA) to allow diploma-qualified educators to complete the degree in 2 years instead of 4. Read more about the exciting launch of the program on July 17 2023 through the department’s media release.

Key course information

The course commenced in July 2023. During the degree, students will study:

• improving education and developmental outcomes for children

• establishing relationships with children and families

• cultural and social diversity

• early intervention and transition to school

• leadership and advocacy

• creating physical and social learning environments.

The accelerated pathway is only open to diploma-qualified educators with 2 years’ experience in ECEC.

Learn more about the course, and enrol in the program, by visiting the University of Wollongong’s Bachelor of Education (The Early Years) Accelerated webpage.

Why should you enrol in the accelerated pathway?

Our highly trained workforce makes a meaningful difference in the lives of children, families and communities, and there’s high demand for skilled and capable ECEC teachers across the state.

The degree's unique and evidence-based program delivery will halve the typical study time without compromising quality. It is an academically rigorous degree that provides students with invaluable mentorship opportunities, support networks, and work experience.

Participants in the accelerated degree will significantly expand their own knowledge and capabilities. They will also bring new skills and resources back to their services to uplift the standard of education and care.

UOW’s innovative accelerated program is:

• open to any diploma-qualified educator in NSW with 2 years' experience in the sector.

• structured in a way that allows students to continue to work whilst they study.

• delivering a connected, evidence-informed, contextually relevant and sustainable learning experience.

• offering an integrated, invaluable mentorship program that will see meaningful professional relationships develop between students and experts.

• providing the gold standard in early childhood education training.

Other professional development opportunities

If you do not meet the entry requirements of the accelerated pathway program, or aren’t ready to enrol right now, there are many other professional development opportunities available to you through the department.

Find out about upskilling programs, professional learning catalogues, and activities to keep your accreditation current on our professional development webpage.