Five Roxby Downs locals have begun studying their Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care through Uni Hub Spencer Gulf, continuing the momentum of a successful community-driven effort to grow the local early childhood workforce.
The Diploma program builds on the achievements of the Roxby Downs Early Childhood Project, which was launched last year and supported 10 local residents to complete their Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care.
The project not only strengthened the local workforce, it also earned national recognition, winning two 2024 Australian Rural Education Awards (AREAs) and the 2024 Indaily Solstice Media Lifelong Learning Award.
With a growing demand for qualified early childhood educators in Roxby Downs and surrounding communities, the new Diploma intake is an important next step. The initiative aims to “Grow Our Own” by supporting local residents to gain the qualifications and practical experience needed to build meaningful, long-term careers in the early childhood sector.
Delivered in partnership with CQUniversity, BHP, and the Roxby Downs Children’s Centre, the program offers flexible, accessible study options, allowing students to learn close to home while completing placements in local childcare and early learning settings.
Uni Hub Spencer Gulf Roxby Downs Centre Manager Sue Barry said the strong local response shows the community’s commitment to supporting young children and their families.
“Roxby Downs faces some unique challenges, including a transient workforce and a shortage of qualified early childhood educators, which directly affects childcare availability and makes it harder for parents to participate in the workforce,” she said.“This project is about investing in local people and building a workforce from within.
“The success of last year’s Certificate III students showed what’s possible when we support locals to pursue their goals. We’re proud to now be offering the Diploma program to help even more residents build rewarding careers in early childhood education.”
