A career in early childhood education can be one of the most rewarding careers. Every day provides the opportunity to make a real difference, by influencing and shaping the lives of young children and their families.
It’s why Edge Early Learning (EEL) employee Evette Langdon has spent the past 30-years working in the childcare industry. And is what motivated 18-year-old Tahlia Jolly to start her journey to become an Educator.
Both Evette and Tahlia are employees at Edge Peregian Springs located on the Sunshine Coast, Queensland. Although they come from different walks of life and range of experience, both see the tangible benefits of a career in early childhood education. And they are both encouraging others to become part of the Edge family.
“It can be demanding but it’s an extremely rewarding role. I get to support each child with their social and intellectual development and watch them grow as individuals. Every day I’m able to experience first-hand the joy and excitement on a child’s face,” Evette said, who works at Edge Peregian Springs as a Nursery and Room Support Assistant.
The pathway to a career in early childhood education
Evette started her career in the early childhood industry in 1993. Although she built up plenty of first-hand experience, it wasn’t until 2019 that she decided to up-skill and get a Certificate 3 in Early Childhood so she could become a qualified Educator.
She said the reason why she keeps coming back every day is because of the “positive difference I get to make in the lives of children.”
“My advice would be don’t be afraid to study, no matter your age or life experience. You can do whatever you set your mind to as childcare has no barriers or limitations.”
At the beginning of her career, Tahlia Jolly has only just finished high school and has already spent her first year in secure employment. Currently working at Edge Peregian Springs as a Casual Educator, Tahlia plans to commence her journey to achieve a Certificate 3 in Children’s Services next year so she will be able to expand her opportunities in early childhood education.
“It’s been amazing to have such a hands-on role for my first job out of school. I feel so lucky to work in a job where I’m making a difference in children’s lives too. “I’m really enjoying learning all aspects of the industry and just love watching the children learn and grow,” Tahlia said.
Tahlia says the most rewarding part of her job is the joy on a child’s face when they complete a task for the first time. “It’s priceless,” she added.
“My advice for anyone who is thinking about a career in early childhood education is to go for it. Completely immerse yourself in the role. You get so much back from making an impact in these children’s early years. Be patient and enjoy the small things.”
Why choose Edge Early Learning?
Edge Early Learning is one of Queensland’s leading and fastest-growing childcare centre groups. Established in 2017 in south-east Queensland, the privately owned and operated group has more than 50 locations throughout Australia. These include 29 centres across south-east and north Queensland. Plus 17 in South Australia, 3 in the Australian Capital Territory and more on the way.
EEL’s rapidly growing footprint means employees have regular opportunities for career progression. This is because Edge offers a range of professional development opportunities.
There are a number of employment opportunities available at the Edge centres throughout south-east Queensland, ranging from casual educators up to a Centre Director position, with EEL seeking applications from those within the local community from all walks of life who are passionate about making a difference in young lives and looking for a promising career.
The benefits of a career in early childhood education
Edge staff are offered a wide range of benefits. These include 60 percent off childcare fees, above Award pay, paid attendance in all team meetings, school holiday leave for ECTs, training and development, and traineeships. The minimum requirement to work at an EEL childcare centre, is a Certificate 3 qualification in Early Childhood.
“Our quest is to become Australia’s best in early childhood education by empowering its educators and providing them with the environment, resources, and support to create optimum learning opportunities for the children in their care,” Edge Early Learning People and Culture Manager Peita Heintzberger said.
“And you don’t need to leave your prior skills, experience or passions at the door. We love bringing people on who have different backgrounds. Who might love yoga or cooking, for example. And we look to see how we can incorporate those interests into our centres to create rich educational experiences.”
Edge provides quality education and care for children aged from 6-weeks to school-aged. The service instills a love for learning through play-based experiences and modern resources. Each centre featuring separate areas appropriate to each age group.
Edge Early Learning is known for its state-of-the-art early learning centres. Its centres support the needs of the community and offer added conveniences to families. This is whilst being committed to delivering an exceptional experience where children can discover their potential and start school with a love of learning.
For more information on a career with Edge Early Learning, visit the website: EdgeEarlyLearning.com.au
