News
24 August, 2026
Students get a taste of life in early education
Twenty-five Goulburn high school students are getting a hands-on taste of working in early childhood education today as the sector looks to attract its next generation of workers.
Twenty-five Goulburn high school students are getting a hands-on taste of working in early childhood education today as the sector looks to attract its next generation of workers.
The Year 9 to 11 students are taking part in the Goulburn Early Education Bootcamp, learning about career and training pathways into an industry facing strong demand for qualified workers across regional NSW.
Students are getting practical experience through activities including playdough making, canvas painting, nature collages and puppet making.
The activities are designed to demonstrate the importance of communication and building relationships with young children, while allowing students to test some of the skills involved in working in early education.
Following today's workshops, students will also tour local early learning centres to see the industry firsthand.
The bootcamp is being held during National Skills Week and aims to give students an opportunity to experience different roles before making decisions about further education, training and employment.
Organisers say regional early childhood services continue to need both new and experienced educators, increasing the importance of creating accessible pathways for local people to gain qualifications and enter the industry.
The initiative is being delivered through the Regional Industry Education Partnerships program in partnership with early childhood education and training organisation ECTARC.
The RIEP program connects secondary schools with employers to give students greater exposure to industries, jobs and pathways into employment.
This year's National Skills Week carries the theme "Life Changing", highlighting vocational education and training and the employment opportunities available through VET.
Today's Goulburn Early Education Bootcamp is being held at the Country Universities Centre in Bourke Street.
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