Professional development and resources
Take control of your career by building on your qualifications, passion and experiences in the early learning sector.
At any stage of your career or studies, there are opportunities to upgrade your skills. From mandatory accreditation to professional development (PD) programs, you can find training and support to help you grow as you advance your career.
Learn more about Accreditation for early childhood teachers.
NSW ECEC Professional Learning Program
The NSW Department of Education has partnered with TAFE NSW to deliver a $10 million professional learning program for the early learning sector. This supports the NSW Government's goals to strengthen the early learning workforce and position TAFE at the centre of skills training in NSW.
Short online courses designed and delivered by sector experts help teachers and educators improve key skills, support career growth, reduce burnout, and provide useful knowledge for everyday work in early learning settings.
The leadership development program, designed to strengthen leadership cababilities and increase workforce retention and career advancement, will launch in August 2026. Eligible early learning professionals are encouraged to express interest. Financial supports are available to participants to encourage participation and completion.
These professional learning opportunities are fee-free, self-paced, and available to early learning professionals living or working in NSW. Courses can be accessed on TAFE’s online platform, with new courses added regularly.
To find out more about the program and register your interest, visit TAFE NSW’s program webpage.
Professional learning catalogue
The Professional Learning catalogue offers a variety of programs and short courses to help you improve your skills.
A skilled and motivated early learning workforce makes a big difference for children, families, and communities. Whether you are an educator, teacher, or service director, continuing to learn and grow is important.
We provide different packages and programs to support you and your employer in navigating professional development options.
Explore our professional learning catalogue to find programs and courses that can enhance your skills.
Courses are available under:
- Australian Early Developmental Census (AEDC)
- cross curriculum
- culturally responsive practice
- early childhood curriculum and pedagogy
- National Quality Framework (NQF)
- transition to school
- young children with disability.
Child protection training
Nominated supervisors and persons in day-to-day charge must complete a mandatory child protection course. Find information on training requirements and refresher training on Child protection training requirements webpage.
Support for people studying ECEC qualifications
In addition to support from the NSW Department of Education's scholarship programs, the Australian Government offers several initiatives to support current and aspiring early childhood teachers and educators, including:
The Professional development subsidy helps early learning teachers, educators and managers complete training to enhance their skills.
The Paid practicum subsidy helps early learning teachers and educators in training complete practicums. It enables paid leave for those undertaking a Diploma of Early Childhood Education or relevant Early Childhood Teaching qualifications to complete practicum placements.