University of Tasmania, Australia

Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood) students must be available to undertake unpaid professional experience (PE) in appropriate educational settings on a full-time basis for a number of weeks each year, totaling a minimum of 80 days over 4 years.  Credit is not available for prior work experience.

Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood) students undertake two Early Years Placements (EYP):

Early Years Placement 1 (EYP1) - 20 days placement in a registered  child care centre working with children aged birth to two years.  From 2013 EPY1 is conducted in conjunction with PE2. For students who have already completed the first and second year of the course, EYP1 will need to be undertaken in addition, prior to graduation.

Early Years Placement 2 (EYP2) - 25 days placement in a school environment working with children aged three to five years (Kindergarten or state equivalent). EYP2 is conducted in conjunction with PE3 or PE4 (student's preference - subject to availability).

For the remainder of the placements, students undertaking Early Childhood specialisation may be placed in Kinder to Grade 6, although they will be given preference for Early Childhood grades K-2 where available.

What are the dates for Professional Experience?

The dates of Professional Experience differ depending on the course and unit you are enrolled in.  Please check the Professional Experience Calendar for dates.

NOTE: Variation to these dates will only be granted in exceptional circumstances

How do I get started?

There are a number of steps you need to take to ensure that the administration of your Professional Experience runs smoothly. 

1. Please access and follow the tips for getting started.
2. Download the relevant preparation checklist.
   
3. Please download and be familiar with relevant expectations.
4. Please familiarise yourself with this website, particularly the information about: 

• Procedural Guidelines
• Student Good Character Determination
  
• Assessment
• Administration
• FAQ's