Course Summary
This engaging taster course introduces high school students to the dynamic and rewarding world of early childhood education and school-based support roles. Designed for those curious about careers working with children, the course blends hands-on activities with foundational theory to explore child development, health and safety practices, nutrition and care routines, inclusive education strategies, and cultural and environmental awareness. Students will participate in interactive tasks such as lesson planning, classroom setup, observation writing, and behaviour support, while gaining insights into WHS protocols, child protection, dietary needs, and learning frameworks. Ideal for aspiring educators, childcare workers, and education support staff, this course offers a practical glimpse into real-world learning environments and builds confidence, communication, and teamwork skills essential for future pathways in education and care.
Requirements - To Be Eligible
For your application to be considered, you must meet the following entry requirements.
Entry RequirementsTo be eligible to participate in Career Tasters you must:
- Be an Australian or New Zealand citizen, or an Australian permanent resident (including humanitarian entrants), or a temporary resident with an eligible visa subclass
- Live in Queensland and be enrolled with a secondary education provider*
- Be actively completing Year 10 at the time of participation
Course Details
| Course Type | Short Course (Non-accredited) |
|---|---|
| Student Availability |
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| Fees | For detailed information on Course Fees, visit www.cqu.edu.au/fees |
| Application Mode |
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| How to Apply | Please Enquire |
| Study Area |
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| Skill Area |
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Admission Codes
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Domestic Students Tertiary Admission Centre Codes (TAC) Codes |
Not Applicable |
|---|---|
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International Students CRICOS Codes |
Not Applicable |
Student Outcomes, Career Opportunities and Occupations
Through exposure to child development principles, inclusive practices, and classroom support techniques, students will develop a foundational understanding of learning environments and student needs. While relevant to teacher aides and early childhood educators, these insights also apply to community services, disability support, recreation programs, and community engagement initiatives. Students will gain experience in planning, observation, and communication, helping them build an understanding of diversity and supporting future opportunities in both formal and informal learning environments.
Study Mode Definitions
- Online: Online courses provide the flexibility to study without normally requiring a student to visit a campus. Course content is studied through a number of means including the use of online discussion forums, electronic library resources, by contacting lecturers and teachers, and receiving study materials online/electronically. Work integrated learning, including placements, may be included in some courses.
- On-campus: Students studying in on-campus mode typically are expected to attend and participate in regular, structured on-campus teaching and learning activities throughout the University’s academic term. These activities may include lectures, tutorials, workshops and practice, online or other activities and normally will be timetabled at a CQUniversity campus or approved delivery site.
- Mixed Mode: Students studying in mixed mode will participate in a combination of online learning activities in addition to site-specific learning activities, which may include residential schools, co-op placements and/or work-integrated learning as a compulsory requirement of a unit. The additional site-specific learning activities are what differentiates a mixed-mode unit from an online unit.
*All study modes may include Vocational placement and/or work integrated learning.
Select a course structure below to view the delivery details, including the different study modes offered for each structure.
5 days
- On-campus
| Units | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NUCRT277A | WHS and Introduction to Early Years and Education Support | More Information | Training.gov Details | |
| NUCRT277B | Child Development & Inclusive Practices | More Information | Training.gov Details | |
| NUCRT277C | Classroom Support & Planning Skills | More Information | Training.gov Details | |
Unit Sequence
| Unit Code | Unit Name |
|---|---|
| NUCRT277A | WHS and Introduction to Early Years and Education Support |
| NUCRT277B | Child Development & Inclusive Practices |
| NUCRT277C | Classroom Support & Planning Skills |
By participating in this immersive taster course, students will develop greater self-awareness and confidence in exploring potential career pathways within education and care. Through hands-on engagement and collaborative tasks, students will strengthen their communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills in practical settings. They will gain a clearer understanding of their personal interests and aptitudes related to working with children, helping to inform future subject selections, vocational decisions, and career planning. The course also fosters a sense of responsibility, initiative, and professional curiosity, supporting students to make informed choices about their next steps in education and training.