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 (CHC30125 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.
How to apply
Ready to apply? Start by speaking with your family and school Careers Advisor to make sure the program is right for you.
For more information, download our step-by-step ‘How to apply’ guide.
Access guide
- 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.
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 CHC30125 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 (CHC30125 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
- 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.
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CHC30125)
- Educator
↓
Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care (CHC50125)
- Educational Leader
- Nominated Supervisor
- Director
↓
Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood or Primary Teaching
- Director
- Early Childhood Teacher
- Early Childhood Specialist
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.
