Early Learning Improvement (ECD): A Joint Effort for Jobs and Good Education
The Gauteng City Region Academy is looking for young candidates interested in becoming ECD teachers.
Early Childhood Development (ECD) is a very crucial part of a child’s life. It is during these early years that a child begins to learn about the world around them. ECD includes the physical, cognitive, language, and socio-emotional development of a child. During these early years, a child’s brain grows at a rapid rate. This makes it a critical time for learning. When a child receives good early education, they are more likely to do well in school and in life. So, investing in ECD is not just good for children, but for society as a whole.
However, there are challenges. ECD centres, often run as non-profit organizations (NPOs), sometimes struggle to meet rules, reach standards, and find funding. Another big problem is the lack of trained teachers. This can stop children from learning and growing in the best way possible.
A new program has been created to solve these problems. This program is a joint effort by the Gauteng City Region Academy (GCRA), Health and Welfare Sector Education and Training Authority (HWSETA), and BlackBark Productions. The program aims to make sure each ECD centre has at least one trained and skilled ECD teacher. The plan is to train about 2,800 young people to help in ECD centres.
A significant part of this program is about creating jobs. Unemployment, especially among the youth, is a major problem. This program addresses this issue by training young people to become ECD teachers. This is not just a job – it’s a career path. These young people will not only earn a living but will also gain skills and experience that can help them advance in the field of education. This means that the program does not only improve early education, but also contributes to the economy by creating jobs.
Information about the ECD programme
The Early Childhood Development (ECD) Teachers Programme is a 3-year programme where young people will receive training as Early Childhood Development Teachers and then placed in ECD centres in the NGO sector.
This programme will offer the candidates unique opportunities such as:
- Access to funding and financial support throughout the duration of the programme.
- Employment opportunities with reputable DSD/GDE funded NGOs/ECD centres.
- Exposure to various work readiness initiatives to enhance professional skills.
Qualification Criteria
To join the program, people must:
- Have finished school in Gauteng
- Live in Gauteng
- Be less than 35 years old during the program
How to apply
- Certified copies of your Grade 12/ NQF Level 4 Senior Certificate
- Certified copy of your ID
- Proof of residence
- No CV Required
You have until 18 July 2023 to apply.
For more information, please visit https://gcra.gauteng.gov.za.
