Changes to out of school hours care (OSHC) qualifications in SA

Dear OSHC services,

Changes to the out of school hours care (OSHC) qualifications in South Australia have been approved by the Minister for Education, Training and Skills:

• expansion of diploma-minimum qualification – broad disciplines
• removal of provision to actively work towards teaching degree
• removal of conditions that require a period of experience.

All previously listed qualifications for SA will continue to be recognised.

The ACECQA website lists the qualifications that apply in South Australia.

Expansion of diploma-minimum qualification – broad disciplines

The list of qualifications has expanded to include any diploma-level qualification (or higher) from any accredited Australian higher education provider and/or registered training organisation from the following broad disciplines:

• Education and care
• Behavioural and social sciences
• Community services
• Health
• Allied health
• Sport and recreation
• Creative arts.

This document provides non-exhaustive examples of the qualifications that meet the requirements to be considered a qualified educator in OSHC services in South Australia.

Removal of provision to actively work towards teaching degree

The provision for tertiary students to be considered equivalent to a diploma qualified educator after successfully completing 2 years of a 4-year undergraduate teaching qualification is retained. The requirement for students to remain actively working towards completing their degree is removed.

Removal of conditions that require a period of experience

The proviso that some qualifications needed a period of experience working with school age children is no longer required.

Further consultation

Further qualification changes included in the consultation process are still under consideration.

The National Children’s Education and Care Workforce Strategy (2022-2031) is also reviewing OSHC qualifications. Throughout May, June and July the Australian Children’s Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA) are consulting with the sector on potential options for improving the national consistency, supporting the quality and reducing the complexity of qualification requirements for educators working with children over preschool age.