Early Childhood School-Based Traineeship (SBAT) program

Accelerate your career journey by studying an entry-level qualification in early education and care while completing your HSC

About the program

The St Nicholas Pathways’ Early Childhood School-Based Traineeship (SBAT) program allows year 11 and 12 students from Catholic Schools to gain entry-level qualifications in early education and care (CHC30121 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care). While completing their HSC, students will gain a qualification that can lead directly to employment, as well as an opportunity to continue their learning pathway with advanced entry into university.

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Responsibilities and selection criteria
Benefits
Career and study pathways
Macquarie Community College

Responsibilities of a St Nicholas Pathways school-based trainee include:

Assisting children with experiences and self-care requirements within the daily routine
Following hygiene and safety procedures and using initiative to address areas needing attention
Following the guidance and directions of your mentor/room leader to contribute to the planning and documentation of children’s learning
Working as part of a team to ensure the positive implementation of policies and associated procedures.

An early childhood school-based trainee (SBAT) interacting with a child at a St Nicholas centre

Selection criteria for a St Nicholas Pathways school-based trainee includes:

Passion for early education – Demonstrated interest and enthusiasm for working with young children, showing a genuine desire to pursue a career in early education.

Effective communication – Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to engage and interact with children, colleagues, and parents in a professional and respectful manner.

Team player – Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team, contributing ideas, supporting colleagues, and actively participating in group activities.

Reliability and punctuality – Track record of being punctual, dependable and committed to fulfilling responsibilities and tasks consistently.

Adaptability – Ability to adapt to changing circumstances, handle unexpected situations and remain flexible in a dynamic educational environment.

Attention to detail and organisation – Strong observational skills, paying attention to the specific needs of individual children and demonstrating an organised approach to work.

Willingness to undertake a CHC30121 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care.

From 2025, the St Nicholas Pathways Early Childhood School-Based Traineeship (SBAT) program will be available exclusively to students enrolled in Catholic schools.

Benefits of a St Nicholas Pathways school-based traineeship include:

A nationally recognised entry-level qualification in early education and care (CHC30121 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care)
Fast-track post-secondary studies, potentially costing less time and money to obtain further qualifications in the sector
A direct pathway from school to a career
Paid on-the-job training at a St Nicholas Early Education centre or St Nicholas OOSH service
Dedicated mentors provide school-based trainees with solid support throughout the program, from sign-up to completion
Opportunities to demonstrate workplace skills and experience to prospective employers.

*Training provided by Macquarie Community College (RTO ID: 90033).
NSW learners may be eligible for subsidies under NSW Smart and Skilled Entitlement training programs.
This training is subsidised by the NSW Government.
Unit/s will be delivered by an agent under a third-party arrangement.

An early childhood school-based trainee (SBAT) interacting with a child at a St Nicholas centre

Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CHC30121)

Educator

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Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care (CHC30121)

Educational Leader
Nominated Supervisor
Director

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Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood or Primary Teaching

Director
Early Childhood Teacher
Early Childhood Specialist

An early childhood school-based trainee (SBAT) interacting with a child at a St Nicholas centre, supervised by a qualified educator

About Macquarie Community College

Macquarie Community College (RTO ID: 90033) is a not-for-profit Registered Training Organisation (RTO) that has set the standard in adult community education since their beginnings in 1950. They offer a range of accredited and non-accredited courses designed to offer their clients flexible, quality education and training to enhance their skills, career opportunities, participation, and connections in community.

To learn more about Macquarie Community College, click here.

Testimonials

‘The trainers are so supportive and knowledgeable. I know I can approach them for whatever I need and they’ll always do their best to help me.’

Georgia Pathways Student

‘St Nicholas Pathways has enabled me to fast-track my dream of becoming an educator.’

Kayla Pathways Student

‘The Immersion program has been amazing to be able to get a taste of what it’s like to work in early childhood. I now know this is the career path for me.’

Steph Pathways Student

‘St Nicholas supported me for the entirety of my work-based traineeship. I’m now one step closer to achieving my dream of becoming a Centre Director.’

Talia Pathways Student