Starting as a Casual Educator in a new centre? On your first day what should you do? What do your colleagues expect form you as a Casual Educator? Here are the tips we collected from other educators, educational leaders and service directors working in Early Childhood Education in Australia.
Top 7 tips for your first day as a casual educator at a new centre
1. Always be open with your communication, ask questions and clarify all the details
2. Respect those around you and their thoughts, feelings and ideas
3. Be willing to lend a hand and be supportive
4. Be confidential and professional.
5. Arrive on time
6. Be physically and emotionally available to children.
7. Enjoy it! You’re so lucky working with children
“Be as helpful as you can to the other educators and engage as much as you can with the children. Soon you’ll have lots of new work friends”
“Pop a finger puppet in your pocket, bring it out every now and then and you will soon make lots of new little friends.”
“Enjoy being around those precious little ones, practice patience and kindness and ask lots of questions. There is always room to learn and no question should be left un-asked”
What to bring
- Take bottle of water,
- broad rim hat, timesheet,
- agency id card (if you have one),
- lunch and
- maybe some children’s books that you can use if needed (not necessary but it may come in handy).
“Ask questions, offer your help (there is always something to do instead of standing around), sing, dance, and have the best time!”
Dress code
- Typically, smart casual wear such as black long pants and a polo t-shirt. In some centres a uniform may be provided.
- Wear a name badge (if provided) and pay attention to your personal hygiene.
- Always wear a broad brim hat while outside.
- Long hair should be tied up and kept out of your face.
- Remove dangling earrings.
Featured photo by Gowrie SA
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