Early Childhood
Professional Experience in the Early Childhood Program
Welcome to the University of Western Sydney Early Childhood Professional Experience Program. Professional Experience is an integral component of both the Master of Teaching (Birth –5 Years / Birth – 12 Years) and the Bachelor of Education (Birth – 5 Years) programs, providing Pre-service Teachers (student teachers) with opportunities to explore the relationship between theoretical understandings and practical teaching skills. One of the unique characteristics of professional experience in the Early Childhood Program is the strong focus on developing communities of practice where Pre-service Teachers, Supervising Teachers and University Advisors share professional understandings and support one another’s professional learning.
The Professional Experience Program provides opportunities for Pre-service Teachers to develop their professional skills in a supportive and collegial environment where they are able to observe the day to day practices in early childhood settings and schools and learn to use a range of teaching techniques that engage children and support their investigation, problem solving and critical thinking across the curriculum.
In the Early Childhood Program we work collaboratively with early childhood and school settings to ensure quality experiences for Pre-service Teachers. Throughout Professional Experience Supervising Teachers undertake the day to day mentoring and professional development of Pre-service Teachers. They are supported in this role by University Advisors who meet regularly with Pre-service Teachers and maintain ongoing contact with the Supervising Teacher.
The Early Childhood Professional Experience Program meets the professional practice requirements of the NSW Department of Education and Communities, the Australian Children's Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA) for Early Childhood Teachers and the requirements of the Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership (AITSL). Throughout the Early Childhood Professional Experience Program Pre-service Teachers are working towards effectively implementing the Early Years Learning Framework for Australia – Principles and Practices, and for those wishing to work in schools, the AITSL - Australian Graduate Teacher Standards.
Further information about Professional Experience in the Early Childhood Program can be found via the following links.
