Mia’s interest in working with children began when she was a child herself.

“Mum has shown me photos of me when I was young, with my attendance roll and all my dolls and toys all lined up for daycare,” she shared.

This love of early childhood education and care (ECEC) continued to grow when she organised to do work experience at a local service. Mia’s first experience working in an ECEC setting further fuelled her desire to work in the sector.

Mia discovered she could gain a Statement of Attainment in Early Childhood Education and Care alongside her HSC studies. This training and on-the-ground experience allowed her to enter a job immediately after completing the HSC, giving her a lead into the career she now thrives in.

“Not even a week after completing my HSC, I started working full-time at a centre in Sydney,” said Mia.

“I had dedicated windows of study time off the floor. I immediately turned learning into practice, and this helped me build my confidence. I pushed my capabilities, found my unique interests and felt ready for more challenges.”

Mia has now completed her Certificate III and has been a room leader for the past year. Regular connection with parents and carers is one of many things Mia loves about her work.

Building a creative space for joyful learning

Mia believes that a play-based learning environment is the perfect space to encourage children to develop skills and explore their potential. She loves going the extra mile for laughter and smiles.

“In my first week we set up sensory stations for water play. I ended up getting drenched head to toe. But the children laughed, and it was a good reminder to always pack spare clothes!

“We focus on child-led play activities that are accessible for all children. Each child can extend on that activity however they please, which is vital for their development.

“Last week we were playing with magnets and the children really loved it because the task they were doing had a 100% success rate, which builds their confidence. We expanded on this activity and found other items the children could connect the magnets to.

“It’s not just about playing with the kids. Through play, you teach them how to speak, walk, and eat, how to be independent. It’s such a privilege to do this for a job.

“I love seeing a child reach a development goal or coming home at the end of the day and finding LEGO pieces in my pockets!”

Getting a head start through an SBAT

Mia completed a TAFE-delivered Vocational Education and Training (TVET) and is an advocate for school-based traineeships (SBAT) as one of many entry points into the ECEC profession, particularly for school students who discover their passion early.

“It’s a very rewarding feeling to be able to leave school with industry specific skills. I was excited to get started helping children grow,” she shared.

By the time Mia began working full-time, she felt capable, confident, and keen to do more. She intends to expand her skills by commencing a diploma in ECEC later this year.

Mia has exciting plans for her classroom practice. She is keen to harness nature-based learning through the Munch & Move program, and to integrate Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples practices within her teaching.

This profile is part of our ECEC Spotlight Series, where we shine a light on passionate, excellent ECEC professionals as well as services, programs and initiatives from around NSW. If you have a story, we would love to hear it! Contact us through this simple nomination form.