Placement vs. Traineeship: What is right for me?

If you or anyone you know are considering starting a career in early childhood, you may be wondering whether studying a course with placement or doing a traineeship is better. We’re here to help clarify.

At Gowrie, both options involve undertaking classes in person at our training centre which is integrated into our service at The Harbour in Docklands, which means individuals get to observe practice both formally and informally each day. However the main difference between the two is that the traineeship is a paid program where you are employed as a staff member, whereas completing the course through placement arrangement involves completing classes and voluntary hours in a service. Gowrie offers a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care, as either a traineeship or placement option, so you can choose which is better for you.

CHC30121 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care

This qualification sets students up for a career working in early childhood education and care with a focus on providing engaging and educational programs for children. You’ll learn about the importance of play in the early years, child development and the educator’s role in children’s learning all in line with the National Quality Framework and Approved Learning frameworks. Throughout your studies, you’ll get support in class and during your practical placements in approved early childhood education and care settings. But what are the different benefits of undertaking the qualification through a placement arrangement or a traineeship?

Benefits of completing your qualification through a placement arrangement

• Greater flexibility to choose the hours that suit you and your personal/family commitments
• You can continue to work in your other employment
• Ability to experience different services

Benefits of completing your qualification through a traineeship

• Earn while you learn
• Access to traineeship incentive payments to help with study costs
• Employee benefits (access to sick leave, annual leave, paid public holidays)
• Dedicated mentor in the workplace
• Sense of belonging with the team

If you or someone you know are considering a career in early childhood education and care, you can view our next intake for the CHC30121 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care.

For more information contact our Training team (training@gowrievictoria.org.au or Ph: 0466 852 121).