Shazamme Blog

Beginning Your Journey: Essential Skills for Trainees in Child Care

Wed, 05 Jul 2023 11:00:24 GMT

Beginning Your Journey: Essential Skills for Trainees in Child Care

Are you considering a career in child care, where you can nurture and support the growth of young minds? Embarking on this journey is an exciting step towards making a positive impact on children's lives. As a trainee in child care, it's essential to develop certain skills that will set you up for success. In this blog, we'll explore the essential skills you need as a trainee in child care, helping you kickstart your career with confidence and enthusiasm.

Communication Skills:
Effective communication is at the heart of working in child care. As a trainee, you'll need to communicate with children, their parents, and your colleagues. Clear and open communication helps build trust, establish positive relationships, and ensure the safety and well-being of the children in your care. Listening attentively, speaking with clarity and warmth, and adapting your communication style to different age groups are crucial skills to master.
Patience and Adaptability:
Working with children requires a great deal of patience and adaptability. Each child has their unique personality, needs, and challenges. As a trainee, you'll encounter various situations that demand flexibility and the ability to adapt your approach. Being patient and understanding, especially during challenging moments, will help you provide a nurturing and supportive environment for the children to thrive.
Observation and Attention to Detail:
Observation skills are vital in child care. As a trainee, it's essential to be attentive to the children's behaviors, interactions, and developmental milestones. Observing their needs and interests will help you tailor activities, provide appropriate guidance, and identify any areas where additional support may be required. Being detail-oriented ensures you can pick up on cues, anticipate potential issues, and maintain a safe and stimulating environment.
Creativity and Playfulness:
Children learn best through play, and as a trainee in child care, it's essential to tap into your creativity and embrace playfulness. Designing engaging activities, fostering imaginative play, and creating a stimulating learning environment will captivate children's attention and facilitate their overall development. Embracing your own sense of wonder and curiosity will inspire the children in your care and make learning a joyful experience.
Teamwork and Collaboration:
Child care is a collaborative field, and teamwork is essential for providing quality care and support. As a trainee, you'll work alongside other educators and professionals, contributing to a cohesive and harmonious team. Cooperation, effective communication, and a willingness to share ideas and responsibilities are key skills that will help you build strong professional relationships and create a nurturing environment for the children.
Problem-Solving and Adaptability:
Working in child care often requires quick thinking and problem-solving skills. Unexpected situations may arise, and as a trainee, you'll need to respond calmly and find appropriate solutions. Having a proactive mindset, being resourceful, and seeking guidance from experienced colleagues when needed will help you navigate challenges and ensure the well-being of the children under your care.

In conclusion, embarking on your journey as a trainee in child care is an exciting and fulfilling opportunity. By developing essential skills such as communication, patience, observation, creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving, you'll be well-equipped to provide a nurturing and supportive environment for children's growth and development. Remember, each day is an opportunity to learn and grow alongside the children, as you contribute to their well-being and help shape their futures. So, embrace the adventure, cultivate these essential skills, and enjoy the rewarding path of becoming a skilled child care professional.

Unlocking Your Potential: Earning While Learning in Aged Care

Wed, 05 Jul 2023 11:00:19 GMT

Unlocking Your Potential: Earning While Learning in Aged Care

Are you a compassionate and driven individual looking for a rewarding career path? Consider the world of aged care, where you can make a meaningful difference in the lives of the elderly. But did you know that you can start your journey in aged care while still studying? In this blog, we'll explore the exciting opportunity of earning while learning in aged care, combining work experience with education to unlock your full potential.

Aged care is a field that demands both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. While classroom learning provides a solid foundation, nothing compares to the hands-on experience gained through working directly with the elderly . By studying aged care while working in the field, you can apply what you learn in real-life scenarios, gaining invaluable insights and honing your skills.

One of the significant advantages of earning while learning in aged care is the ability to earn an income while pursuing your education . Many aged care facilities offer part-time or casual employment opportunities to students enrolled in aged care courses. This means you can start earning money even before you complete your studies, helping to support your educational expenses and living costs.

Working in aged care while studying also provides a unique opportunity for practical application and experiential learning. You'll have the chance to work alongside experienced professionals, observe their techniques, and learn from their expertise. This hands-on experience allows you to develop a deeper understanding of the challenges and rewards of working in aged care , preparing you for a successful career in the field.

Furthermore, combining work and study in aged care offers a well-rounded learning experience. While academic knowledge is crucial, the ability to apply that knowledge in a real-world setting is equally important . By working in aged care, you'll gain insights into the daily routines, specific needs, and individual preferences of elderly individuals. This understanding will enhance your ability to provide personalised and compassionate care, setting you apart as a competent and empathetic professional.

Earning while learning in aged care also facilitates networking and professional connections. Through your work experience, you'll have the opportunity to build relationships with colleagues, supervisors, and industry professionals . These connections can open doors to future employment opportunities, mentorship, and ongoing support as you progress in your career.

Moreover, working in aged care while studying allows you to make a tangible difference in the lives of the elderly. Every interaction with residents and clients becomes an opportunity to positively impact their well-being and bring joy to their lives. By being immersed in the day-to-day realities of aged care, you'll develop a deep sense of fulfilment and purpose, knowing that your work directly contributes to the welfare of others.

In conclusion, earning while learning in aged care is a fantastic opportunity to unlock your full potential. By combining work experience with education, you can develop practical skills, earn an income, and make a meaningful impact in the lives of the elderly. So, if you have a passion for caring for others and a desire to embark on a fulfilling career, consider studying aged care while working in the field. It's a path that not only empowers you with knowledge and skills but also allows you to contribute to a more compassionate and supportive society for our senior community.

$0 Fee Enrolled Aged Care Recruitment

angus.washington@earnandlearn.com.au (Angus Washington) — Tue, 06 Jun 2023 06:04:20 GMT

Term and Conditions:

Yes, you read that right a $0 fee for any employer that takes on a Cert III Individual support cohort.

Earn & learn currently have multiple candidates looking to engage in an employment pathway in your local area.

Earn & Learn is partnered with MCIE, an award-winning institute to deliver Certificate III in Individual Support in a supported distance model. The supported distance model is self-paced to support those learners working casually but you have the option to hire in a workplace-based (Perm PT or FT employment contract, placement completed during work hours) or traineeship (Perm PT or FT contract with an Apprenticeship company completing a training contract for both parties to receive incentives, placement completed during work hours and 3 hrs a week for full time or pro rata study allocation for trainees.)

Earn & Learn are offering a $0 recruitment fee for this cohort, however, qualified carers are subject to fee's outlined in our Terms of Business.

Please let us know if your interest and we will send you the candidates resumes and connect for interviews or work trials.

$0 Fee Enrolled Early Childhood Recruitment

angus.washington@earnandlearn.com.au (Angus Washington) — Tue, 06 Jun 2023 05:53:53 GMT

Term and Conditions:

Yes, you read that right a $0 fee for any employer that hire a Cert III enrolled educator.

Earn & learn currently have multiple candidates looking to engage in an employment pathway in your local area.

Earn & Learn is partnered with MCIE, an award-winning institute to deliver Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care in a supported distance model. The supported distance model is self-paced to support those learners working casually but you have the option to hire in a workplace-based (Perm PT or FT employment contract, placement completed during work hours) or traineeship (Perm PT or FT contract with an Apprenticeship company completing a Training contract for both parties to receive incentives, placement completed during work hours and 3 hrs a week for full time or pro rata study allocation for Trainees.)

Earn & Learn are offering a $0 recruitment fee for this cohort, however, qualified educators are subject to fee's outlined in our Terms of Business.

Please let us know if your interested and we will send you the candidate's resumes and connect you for interviews or work trials.

Want to live and work in Australia? 10 most common questions answered

angus.washington@earnandlearn.com.au (Angus Washington) — Mon, 05 Sep 2022 00:49:27 GMT

Want to live and work in Australia? 10 most common questions answered

With lots of sun year-round and a relaxed atmosphere, lots of people are putting Australia as their number one dream destination. If you’re looking to make a home in the great land down under, here are answers to some of the burning questions that you might have.

1 What type of visa do you need?

It depends on how long you’re intending to stay. Short stay work visas are ideal if you’re just looking for a slight change of pace for a year or two. But if you’d like to stay any longer, you will need to apply for a Skilled Migration visa.

With this visa, you will be able to stay permanently and work or study in Australia indefinitely. Applicants who are skilled in industries of high demand might see a faster response or be eligible for a Workforce Skills Pathway visa. The skills pathway visa is for people who have already been working in Australia for some time in hospitality, early childhood education, or as part of a STEM industry.

2 What job is in highest demand in Australia?

It depends on the state, but generally, the hospitality and tourism industry is always hiring everywhere in Australia. There is a high demand for cooks and chefs, as well as restaurant/hotel managers and baristas, especially in the big cities like Melbourne and Sydney. Other jobs in demand include trades like cabinetry, carpentry, mining, stonemasonry, and plumbing.

The Early Childhood Education and Aged Care industries are also hungry for skilled workers to fill much needed positions, and Australia’s recent policies is prioritising growth in STEM fields, which means workers in technology, science, and engineering are highly valued.

3 Can I move without a job lined up?

You don’t need a job offer before moving to Australia, but it definitely helps your permanent work visa application if you do. Your application is more likely to be accepted if you include some proof of employment.

4 Which city should I pick?

Australia is a big place, and the jobs available will vary from city to city. Business is concentrated in the bigger cities like Melbourne and Sydney, while jobs like mining and shipping are more in demand in Perth and Adelaide.

Cost of living will also vary depending on the city. Sydney is the highest, followed by Melbourne and Perth. Regional areas are of course cheaper, but be prepared for less convenience and more distance from necessities.

5 How much does it cost to rent?

In Sydney, a furnished studio apartment about 45m2 costs on average 2080 AUD monthly. In Melbourne you can expect to pay about 1429 AUD monthly. The buying market is very competitive in Australia and the price of housing is set to climb further. Definitely expect to pay a bit more than your usual budget when you make the move.

6 Is healthcare really free?

Mostly! Australian citizens and permanent residents get either free or heavily subsidised healthcare through the public health system Medicare. You might also be covered if you are applying for permanent residency, though conditions apply. Medicare covers all of the cost of public health services, and either some or all of the other medical services someone might need, like physical or speech therapy. Some prescription medicines for Medicare card holders are also cheaper.

It doesn’t cover everything though. For example, dental is not covered under Medicare after age 18. Many people in Australia opt for private health insurance for better cover.

7 How does the education system perform in Australia?

If you’re moving with children, you don’t have to worry. As of 2022, Australia ranks 8th in the world for education quality. Australian universities are world ranked, and perform well amongst the top universities in the world. Early Childhood Education is also being prioritised countrywide to really give children in Australia the best possible start to life and more pathways to success.

8 What’s the weather like?

This might seem like a mundane question, but it’s worth researching before you make the move. Australia gets a lot of sun in the summer and doesn’t freeze in the winter. It’s also a country prone to drought and bushfires, so there are lots of areas with water and fire restrictions in the summer. Wild weather in Australia includes floods, cyclones, and hurricanes, and the further north you go, the more tropical and humid it gets. Definitely do your research to see if you will be comfortable in the city you’ll be moving to, but one thing’s for sure; sunscreen is a must in the summer.

9 Is Australia friendly to foreigners?

In general, Australians are welcoming and tolerant of immigrants and expats. Many cities in Australia have diverse communities of people living and working together from all parts of the world, so it isn’t strange to hear many languages and accents in the air when you walk down the street. You shouldn’t expect to see any hostility towards you when you’re out and about.

10 Is the wildlife really out to get you?

Yes. The rumours are true. Unlike the local humans, the local wildlife are less friendly. The good news is that most of them will leave you alone if you leave them alone, so stay on the paths when you’re hiking. Even if it looks fluffy and cuddly, it can still hurt you. It’s best to just keep your distance.

Working in Australia as a Chinese person. Everything you need to know.

angus.washington@earnandlearn.com.au (Angus Washington) — Mon, 15 Aug 2022 05:53:40 GMT

Working in Australia as a Chinese person. Everything you need to know.

The Australian economy is strong and growing, and there is demand for workers across a range of sectors. Chinese workers with the right skills and qualifications are in demand and can find work in a range of industries.

If you've been thinking about working in Australia, here's what you need to know.

What visa do I need?

There are a number of visas available that allow Chinese nationals to work in Australia. The most common visa for working in Australia is the Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189) . This visa allows you to live and work permanently in Australia.

To be eligible for this visa, you must have an occupation that is on the skilled occupations list and you must meet the points test. This visa is notoriously difficult to get and you might have to wait up to 4 years for it to be approved.

You may also be eligible for a Skilled Regional Visa (subclass 887) if you are willing to live and work in a regional area of Australia. These are often remote areas that are a distance away from large cities. To be eligible for this visa, you must have held a subclass 475, 487, 495 or 496 visa for at least two years and must have worked in a regional area for at least one year.

There are also a number of short-term visas available for Chinese nationals.

There are certain steps you need to take to apply for these visas. To apply for a Work and Holiday visa, People's Republic of China (PRC) passport holders will need to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) first before being invited to apply. If you're applying for a Temporary Work visa, you will need to do so before visiting Australia. Make sure to check the eligibility criteria and process carefully as the application fees are usually non-refundable.

Can my family come with me?

If you are coming to Australia on a working visa, your partner and dependent children can come with you on a dependent visa. They will be able to work and study in Australia while you are working. The same goes for temporary work visas. However, if you are on a Work and Holiday visa, you will not be able to be accompanied by any dependants.

What are the conditions of my visa?

All visas have certain conditions that must be met. For example, you might be required to work in a certain occupation or a regional area depending on what visa you get. Make sure to check the requirements carefully before you apply.

What are my workplace rights in Australia?

All workers in Australia have certain rights and protections under Australian law. These include the right to be paid fairly, the right to safety at work, and the right to annual leave and sick leave.

This means that even as a foreign national, your employer cannot pay you less than the Australian minimum wage. You are also entitled to paid annual leave and sick leave, and your employer cannot ask you to work excessive hours.

It is also illegal for employers to discriminate against you in the workplace or hold your identification papers. If you feel like your rights have been violated, you can contact the Fair Work Ombudsman for help.

Where can I find work in Australia?

There are a number of ways to look for work in Australia. Start with registering with www.earnandlearn.com.au and click join our community.

You can search online job boards, such as Seek and Indeed. You can also register with a recruitment agency that specializes in your field.

Another option is to network with people you know who are already working in Australia. They might be able to put you in touch with potential employers or help you find work. Your Chinese language skills are highly desirable in many industries, so make sure to highlight them in your applications.

What does "functional English" mean?

Functional English means being able to use English for everyday tasks such as reading, writing and speaking.

To be eligible for most visas, you will need to demonstrate that you have functional English. This usually requires taking an English test such as the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). A functional English level means an average score of at least 4.5 for the IELTS across the 4 test components. There are other tests you can take to prove your competency, and since they're marked differently, the threshold scores for them are also different. For a full breakdown, check the Department of Home Affairs website here .

What is the work culture like in Australia?

The work culture in Australia is generally informal and relaxed. People dress more casually for work than in most places in the world, and the focus is on getting the job done rather than following strict protocols.

This can be a bit of a culture shock for Chinese workers who are used to a more formal and strictly hierarchical work environment. However, it is important to remember that Australians value honesty, directness, and a sense of humour, so try to be yourself and don't take things too seriously.

Will I fit in?

Australia is a highly diverse country, and you will find people from all over the world working here. There are over 650,000 Chinese-born people living in Australia , and an even greater number of people who are of Chinese heritage. This means that though the culture gap between you and your co-workers might still exist, it's also likely not as big of a jump as you think. In general, Australians are friendly and welcoming to foreign nationals, so you shouldn't have any trouble making friends and fitting in. Of course, there will always be some adjustments to make when moving to a new country. But with an open mind and a positive attitude, you'll find that working in Australia can be a great experience.

Are you from NZ?

angus.washington@earnandlearn.com.au (Angus Washington) — Fri, 29 Jul 2022 05:50:46 GMT

Are you from NZ? Your guide to finding a job in Australia

For many kiwis, making the hop down to Australia is a process filled with lots of uncertainty. But getting a foot into the Aussie job market isn’t as hard as you think!

Why work in Australia?

Australia with its larger population may have more jobs available in the field you are looking to enter, making it an attractive destination for many New Zealanders struggling to enter the job market in their home country.

Due to our close relationship, New Zealanders get a Special Category Visa (SCV) upon arrival in Australia. This allows you to live and work indefinitely in Australia, just like in New Zealand. The only thing you can’t do in Australia is join the army or take up a permanent role in public service. That’s reserved for Aussie citizens only.

If you’re looking to become an Australian citizen, you’d need to have a permanent residency first and live in Australia for at least five years. Although getting permanent residency in Australia is notoriously difficult, it’s a much faster process for New Zealanders with applications only taking 18-23 months to process.

What kind of jobs are available?

Australia is currently struggling to meet demand for personnel across many sectors, so there are lots of opportunities available for you to snap up. Employment in a sector of high demand may also fast-track your application for permanent residency.

The industries seeking the most workers are:

- Hospitality

- Aged Care

- Early Childhood Education

- Health Services

- STEM

Depending on which state you intend to reside in, different jobs will be in higher demand. For example, if you’re looking for a job in the Mining industry, Perth will have more opportunities than Melbourne. Australia is a big country, so you should do your research first before you commit.

What documentation do I need?

It’s best to have your documentation sorted out and organised before you leave for Australia. Make sure you have sufficient identification documents. Australia uses the 100 point ID system, and each item is worth a certain amount of points. The amount of points an item is worth varies depending on the situation, so make sure you have as many identification items with you as you can.

Identification items can include:

- A passport

- A birth certificate

- Driver’s licence

- Photo ID

- A bank statement

- A name change certificate

- A marriage licence

It’s a good idea to have certified copies of the originals to give to future employers or accomodation managers. You should always keep the originals yourself.

If you are making the move with your children, you will also need to make sure that you have their:

- Passport

- Birth Certificate

- Immunisation records (including COVID-19, depending on your child’s age)

- Plunket baby book

- One year’s worth of school reports

- Baptismal certificate (if applicable)

- Court orders (if applicable)

- Proof of Australian Residency or Authority to enrol (if not a NZ passport holder)

Having all the documents will make it so much easier for you to enrol your children in schools within Australia.

You may also need rental references from a previous landlord to apply for a rental property. Getting a printout of this before you go saves a lot of hassle. Getting character references for any job that you might need to apply for is also a good idea.

Before you commence any work in Australia, you will need to have an Australian Tax File Number (TFN). It’s easy to get one, you just have to fill out an application form online. However, you cannot apply for a TFN while overseas.

Do I have to get an Australian qualification?

Most New Zealand qualifications are recognised in Australia. You can use your NCEA results to apply to Australian universities and training institutes if you intend to study in Australia.

Workers looking to go into fields like plumbing and electrical do not need to undergo further testing under the Trans-Tasman agreement held between Australia and New Zealand. However, you do need to contact the Australian Education International to get these qualifications recognised.

There is a lot to love about living in Australia, and many New Zealanders before you have fallen in love with the country. Trying to find a job on top of adjusting to a new place can be stressful though, so most people recommend finding a job before you go.

Most jobs in Australia are advertised through the internet, with many jobs advertised on Earn and Learn. You can join our community to be alerted of jobs which are relevant to you! No matter what, there is an opportunity out there waiting for you! Get prepared and you’ll be kicking off your life in Australia in no time!