This unit includes an on-campus component and a minimum of three weeks of workplace learning in a child care setting, working with children aged birth to 24 months. In this unit pre-service teachers explore the Quality Improvement and Assessment System (QIAS) processes and the relevant State Child Care Licensing Regulations. Pre-service teachers examine ways of observing, planning and implementing experiences for infants and toddlers. Features of effective childcare routines which promote the health, safety and well being of infants and toddlers will also be studied.

This is a Designated Unit, involving a placement in a school/centre where students gain practical experience of school life. The placement provides an essential opportunity to connect theory with practice and develop the knowledge, dispositions, understandings and competencies of a beginning teacher under the guidance of experienced professionals.

All students are required to be available during the scheduled Professional Practice periods as per the School of Education Calendar which is available at: http://www.education.ecu.edu.au/prac and to give a full-time commitment to the school/centre during the scheduled days.