Student support
Learn about how we support ECEC students and staff looking to further their studies.
KU supports the participation of students in KU services and programs to enable them to gain insights into KU practice and pedagogy, and improve outcomes for children, families, communities and the profession.
KU welcomes students and values the potential for reciprocity in learning and teaching. We provide a reputable, professional and safe early childhood environment to support professional experience opportunities for work experience, early childhood, early intervention, and allied health students.
All student placements are subject to availability, so we encourage you to reach out to your local KU service directly.
Each KU service is unique, and their capacity to accommodate student placements may vary. By contacting your preferred service, you can enquire about any available opportunities directly with the Service Director.
KU is committed to supporting early childhood education and care; therefore, preference is given to students from tertiary institutions that are studying Birth–5 years and Birth–8 Years courses.
Interested in work experience or a student placement at KU? Find a KU service below and enquire from their service page.
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Frequently asked questions from students
What qualification will I finish with?
Upon successful completion of the traineeship, educators will obtain a CHC30121- Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care.
How long does a traineeship take?
12 months full time or 24 months part time.
Who covers the cost of the Certificate III?
All successful applicants benefit from a traineeship fully funded by KU Children’s Services. There are no out of pocket expenses for you. The only purchase you will need to make is a working with children check for your relevant state/territory.Â
Do you provide support for staff engaging in additional studies?
KU understands that studying while working can be challenging, so we support our staff in completing their early childhood qualifications. Permanent and contracted teachers and educators studying an approved course under KU’s Enterprise Agreements are entitled to paid study leave and paid placements. Those studying an ECT-approved qualification get one day of paid study leave per subject/unit, pro-rated for part-time staff.
Eligible teachers and educators may apply for up to two placements within KU. One placement, if approved by the tertiary institution, is paid, in-ratio, and can be at their own service. The second placement is paid, supernumerary, and at another KU service. The paid hours match the contracted hours of employment. For placements outside of KU, teachers and educators can access leave without pay without using their annual leave first, offering more flexibility in planning.
For more information and advice on eligibility and processes, make an enquiry or email earlycareers@ku.com.au.
Can I stay in the service after I’ve finished the traineeship?
The objective of completing your traineeship is to take the next step in your career as a qualified early childhood educator. This might mean continuing your employment in the same service or exploring opportunities available at another KU service.Â
