The department offers a range of scholarships and programs to support students to reach their goal of becoming early childhood teachers and educators.
Under the Early Childhood Tertiary Partnerships (ECTP) program, the department has funded universities, registered training organisations and TAFEs to offer courses for future teachers and educators that are designed to provide strengthened academic and workplace mentoring tailored to suit the needs of students from all backgrounds, including First Nations peoples.
Creating a culturally safe learning journey
Victoria University (VU) TAFE has dedicated support for First Nations students, including personalised mentoring and practical help.
Through her role as Koorie Liaison Officer at VU TAFE, Gunditjmara woman Rhiannon Madden (pictured above) shares her knowledge and guidance in ways that ensure Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students feel a shared appreciation of their cultural identity and enjoy a culturally safe learning environment.
Rhiannon said the level of academic and practical support is customised to each student's circumstances, as some seek more frequent contact and assistance than others.
‘My focus is creating a positive, culturally safe and supportive learning journey, guiding students through consistent mentoring and readily available assistance to explore their career in early childhood education,’ she said.
‘Students frequently praise the mentoring and cultural support, citing the invaluable guidance and sense of place it creates.’
Improved educational outcomes
As part of her role, Rhiannon helps eligible students to access practical help such as the financial supports available through the Victorian Government’s Aboriginal Pathways Scholarships Program.
Under the program, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who want to become an early childhood educator or teacher can apply for financial support of between $2,500 and $34,000, depending on the course, to help cover costs while they study. The support means students can focus on their studies, rather than worrying about expenses.
‘Students express gratitude for the financial relief, stating that the scholarship removes a major barrier to education.’
Removing barriers to education
Rhiannon believes that by removing these known barriers to education, the VU TAFE program provides students with a sense of belonging within a sometimes challenging academic environment. She said that celebrating and fostering First Nations voices is significant, particularly for early childhood.
‘It's especially important … to bring culture and identity into early learning settings, shaping stronger foundations for the next generation.’
Find out more
To find out more about financial support to study early childhood education, or to apply, refer to Financial support to study and work in early childhood.
The scholarship programs are available to those starting to study and already studying (including those in their final year).
For further enquiries, including about eligibility, contact BUSY At Work:
- phone: 1300 161 396
- email: EC.Financial.Support@education.vic.gov.au
For more information about the Early Childhood Tertiary Partnerships program, refer to Early Childhood Tertiary Partnerships program.
Updated