However, there are major changes underway regarding minimum formal qualifications for all people working with kids in childcare centres.

This requirement is likely to place real pressure on centres such as the one in your town. Basically, many of those currently working in this field have little or no formal qualification and they will have to upskill and gain those qualifications in the near future.

The following article explains the situation.

Earlier this year, the Tullamore Pre-School and Child Care Centre received Federal Government funding, under the Long Day Care Capital Funding Program to expand its facilities.

This centre was one of just 14 throughout Australia that received this funding.

This expansion is welcomed by all in the local community, but it should be noted that early childhood education and care is soon to be standardised across Australia, requiring minimum formal qualifications for all of those working with children in this sector.

This initiative follows an agreement between the Federal Government and the States, through the Council of Australian Governments (COAG), to advance a National Quality Agenda, including the development of nationally consistent standards in early childhood education and care.

The consultation process with the community and the industry is currently well advanced, with the reforms expected to be in force in the near future.

It is proposed, by the end of 2013, that all staff involved in early childhood education and care must have a minimum Certificate III in Childcare (or be enrolled) and that 50 per cent of staff have a Diploma level or higher qualification.

“These proposed legislative changes, which are expected to be implemented, represent a significant upgrade in the qualifications required of many staff in this sector.

“It would be prudent for those affected to review their current qualifications and if necessary take steps to comply,” says Stuart McDonell CEO of Cengage Education, a registered training provider in this field.