A partnership between Uni Hub Spencer Gulf and Flinders University will boost the local early childhood workforce, offering a fast-tracked degree for aspiring pre-school teachers.

Applications are now open for a new three-year Bachelor of Early Childhood Education to be delivered by Flinders University with local support from Uni Hub.

Uni Hub’s CEO, Anita Kuss said the new degree offering is in response to the state government’s rollout of three-year old kindergarten next year.

“This has prompted a change in industry requirements in South Australia for qualified early childhood teachers, who are now seeking a fast-tracked, three-year degree qualification, specifically for teaching in pre-school contexts.

Ms Kuss said the degree will be available through ‘blended learning’ making it accessible to anyone studying across the Yorke and Mid North, Eyre Peninsula and Far North regions.

“Academic content will be delivered online by Flinders University, with local support provided to students from our Uni Hub staff in Port Pirie, Port Augusta, Port Lincoln, Copper Coast and Roxby Downs,” Ms Kuss said.

Uni Hub support includes help with enrolment, study planning, course tutors, placement coordination and industry engagement to maximise local employment for graduates.

“We already partner with Flinders on a number of other courses so we know we can hit the ground running with this new offering and help make a difference in ‘growing our own’ workforce across the region,” Ms Kuss said.

“Flinders Uni has been delivering this qualification for over a year now and have been working closely with the State Government Office of Early Childhood Development to help grow the early childhood teacher workforce.

“The degree is fully accredited and meets the requirements for Teachers Registration Board for teaching in early childhood settings, including pre-schools, kindergartens, early childhood learning centres and educational programs delivered in out-of-school care.”

Applications for entry into the new degree program are currently open, with a direct entry enrolment available through Uni Hub.

“There are currently scholarships available for students who enrol, so if you’ve been thinking about a career in pre-school teaching, now is a perfect time to jump on board,” she said.

“Whether you are a new school leaver, or someone in the community looking to upskill or re-skill, there is a pathway available into this degree.

“The course starts in late February 2026, so there’s definitely still time to enrol. I’d encourage people to get in touch with your nearest Uni Hub or make a study enquiry on our website.”