Live in Victoria and thinking of starting your career in early childhood education?
Whether you’ve recently left school, looking for a career change or returning to the workforce, being an Early Childhood Trainee will really set you up for a fun and rewarding new career.
Melbourne
Next intakes: Wednesday 15 October & Thursday 27 November 2025
E-mail training@gowrievictoria.org.au to find out more.
Why do a traineeship with Gowrie?
Gowrie has been a champion for high quality early childhood education and care for 85 years. We’re proud of our history and being known as the place that generations of educators have come to observe, be inspired and learn. Early childhood is our sole focus, we run our own services for children and families and we are specialists in training new educators and providing professional learning programs to the sector. Classes are small and face-to-face and our program provides real world experience to ensure you’re ready for work. The Victorian early childhood sector is growing, with career opportunities available across the state. There’s no better time to join a sector that is in high demand with unlimited potential for career growth.
As an Early Childhood Trainee, you will gain valuable, practical skills to set you up in your new career. Because we want you to succeed in your new career, this program offers a wide range of support
Earn a wage while you learn
Enjoy the benefits of earning a full-time wage while you study.
Receive mentoring by an experienced mentor
An experienced educator at the service will be your dedicated mentor to guide you in your day-to-day work and meet with you regularly to see how you’re progressing and provide any support you need.
Be supported by our experienced trainers to implement theory into practice
Your trainer will teach you the theory, provide opportunities for practical simulation and help to ensure you are able to work through your assessment work and take this with you in your day-to-day work. They will visit to observe you and provide valuable feedback, ensure you can access additional study support when needed and continue to support you for the first 12 months after you have completed your traineeship.
Weekly classes
You’ll attend one weekly class at Gowrie at The Harbour in Docklands to gain your nationally recognised qualification.
Work at a service close to home
Apply your learning at an early learning service close to home as a valued full-time member of staff.
Government funding support
Eligible individuals can access government funding support to complete Certificate III in Early Childhood Education & Care.
Job interview preparation
Receive support as you prepare for job interviews for your career after your traineeship.
Make lifelong friends
Network and make friends with other trainees as well as mentors and experienced educators.
“I think it’s really beneficial – whether you’re new and starting fresh, or you want to upskill from having your Cert III, there’s always something to learn from someone. Having such diverse classes as well means that you meet a lot of people who do things in different ways, so you can learn a lot from those learning with you.”
– Erin
Ready to become a trainee and start your new career?
If you’re interested in getting paid to study as a trainee, e-mail training@gowrievictoria.org.au or fill out the form below.
We will talk you through the application process, ensure you complete all the right information and match you to an early learning service close to home.
Gowrie is a registered training organisation (RTO ID: 3900)
