A Crash Course in Early Childhood Education: My Top 3 Learnings as an Outsider to the Industry

Posted on 18/11/2019 by Beck Sanderson

When I first started with Entrée Recruitment, I was confident that my knowledge from experience in the recruitment industry would provide me with a wealth of know-how with which to support my consultants. I was nervous and little excited when I discovered that one of my responsibilities would be supporting Entrée Early Years Recruitment, the Entrée division specialising in the Early Childhood industry. I had never been exposed to the Early Childhood industry before, and hence began my crash course. Here are the top three things I have learnt along the way:

1. The Early Childhood industry has its own complete language. For anyone entering employment in the industry for the first time, or entering their child into a service, there is a whole new set of lingo that you need to learn and understand. Who would have thought that 'Emilio Reggio' was not an Italian pasta dish, but in fact an educational philosophy! And that when Directors referred to the EYLF, they weren’t talking about a mythical creature who doles out advice on childhood education.

2. Everything is driven by learning and development. There is a misconception in some circles that the Early Childhood industry is more of a "child-minding" industry. This could not be further from the truth. Children in care are carefully observed by trained Educators and programs are created and tailored to their needs with play-based learning at the heart. Playing with blocks isn’t just an enjoyable activity. It is also an opportunity for guided play to help develop motor skills and creativity! The thought, care and research that goes into this industry is mind-blowing.

3. Educators are the heart and soul of the Early Childhood industry. In a vast and complex world that is ever changing, the one thing that stays the same is the passion and genuine care that Educators have for the children they educate. I have been amazed at the incredible, talented, caring, and intelligent Educators I have met throughout my time with Entrée Early Years Recruitment. It is a tough gig being an Educator: early mornings, changing policies, crying children, and at times a lack of appreciation. But at the end of the day, the Educators I meet are dedicated, hardworking and absolutely in love with their chosen profession.

My involvement with the Early Childhood industry has opened up a whole new view and perspective for me, and garnered a whole new appreciation for the centres, Educators and promoters of this often overlooked, but incredibly important, industry.