Inspiring future generations

Jenifer Halim’s dream of opening a childcare centre is a step closer to reality.

The Indonesian international student studied the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care CHC50113 at Victoria University (VU) Polytechnic, the TAFE division of VU, with the aim of returning to her hometown of Surabaya to eventually open her own childcare centre.

“Because of VU, I feel confident that I’ll be able to open my own centre one day,” Jenifer says.

I’ve learnt so much about the regulatory and health and safety requirements of running a childcare centre, just as much as I have learnt about caring for children in their early years.

Jenifer, who commenced her diploma in 2018, says the best part of the course is the hands-on, practical experience she has gained beyond the classroom theory.

“The diploma requires all students to do five placements in real childcare settings and a First Aid course, which means I’m able to gain a lot more experience than I ever would be able to back home.

The teachers are also very supportive and because the class sizes are so small, the teachers get to spend more time with me one-on-one.

To enter the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care, students need to successfully complete the Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care. The diploma offers a pathway into the Bachelor of Early Childhood Education, which enables students to enter careers as a teacher in kindergartens and primary school settings.

Courses studied

Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care CHC30113 (now Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care CHC30121)

Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care CHC50113 (now Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care CHC50121)