In anticipation of South Australia's 2026 launch of preschools for three-year-old's and amidst teacher workforce shortages, Flinders University is introducing new teaching degrees aimed at preparing early childhood teachers for roles in long-day childcare centres, kindergartens, and preschools.
Supported by scholarships offering financial support up to $25,000 announced by the South Australian government , the University has developed an industry-leading, birth-to-five postgraduate degree launching in Semester 2 of this year and is currently accepting applications.
Developed in response to the Royal Commission into Early Childhood Education and Care, the new Master of Teaching (Birth to 5) will ensure students gain the skills and knowledge to effectively plan, implement and advocate for transformative teaching and learning for children aged up to five years.
It will also teach students how to apply policies and practices that take into account social and individual differences, ensuring that all children learn in supportive environments.
Course Coordinator & Early Childhood Senior Lecturer, Rachael Hedger says Flinders is also launching a three-year Bachelor of Early Childhood Education (Birth to 5) in 2025.
"The University is providing a one-year credit for students who hold a Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care and this degree will qualify for the governments new $25,000 financial support.
"Flinders will also offer a Graduate Diploma in Early Childhood Education (Birth-to-five) designed for Primary and Secondary teachers to upskill and work in early childhood. This degree will be offered online to support upskilling whilst students are managing their current work commitments."
The new study pathways support the University's launch of its specialised Early Childhood teaching space at Bedford Park, where students can apply their learnings in a real-world setting.
Vice-President and Executive Dean, College of Education, Psychology & Social Work, Professor Deborah West, says Flinders will provide a range of study options that ensure students are ready to support the transformation of the early childhood sector in South Australia while advancing their own careers.
"Whether you hold an undergraduate degree and are looking for a new opportunity, or already working in an early childhood setting and want to build on the skills you've developed in your Diploma of Early Childhood Education, this is your chance to discover a rewarding career in the early childhood teaching profession."
"The Flinders Master of Teaching (Birth-5) will be taught separately to our school-based teaching degrees, so that pre-service teachers can specialise in the essential aspects of young children's play, learning and development."
"Our students will have opportunities to engage in inquiry-led and research-based projects, construct and assess play-based learning for children, and gain an understanding of the importance of all children learning about, and through, indigenous ways of knowing and being. This course also includes work integrated learning opportunities and professional placements."
