How to Become a Child Care Worker and Write a Cover Letter 

Thinking about a career in childcare? This article explains how to become a qualified child care worker and provides tips on writing a professional childcare cover letter. As passionate child care workers, we want to help you take the next step toward a rewarding career in early childhood education!

How to Become a Child Care Worker

Believe us when we say, working in childcare is fun and rewarding. You get to spend your days working with children, teaching life skills, and supporting their development. But, to become a childcare worker, you’ll need the right qualifications and experience.

What qualifications do you need to become a childcare worker?

• Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CHC30113) with 120 hours of placement
• Clear background checks: Child care clearances, Blue Card for child care
• First Aid training: CPR, Anaphylaxis, Asthma Awareness

Additional roles may require higher qualifications:

• Early Childhood Assistant/Worker: Certificate III
• Education Assistant/Teacher Aide: Certificate IV (CHC40113)
• Early Childhood Educator/Centre Director: Diploma (CHC50113)

Key Skills for Child Care Workers

• Communication and interpersonal skills
• Planning and running activities
• Relating to children
• Critical thinking and decision-making
• Patience, compassion, and problem-solving
• Fitness and stamina
• Understanding the code of ethics in childcare

Is a Child Care Career Right for You?

Ask yourself:

• Do you love children?
• Can you be patient and flexible?
• Are you dependable and resilient?
• Are you willing to pursue ongoing education?
• Can you communicate effectively with children and parents?

What is a Childcare Cover Letter?

A cover letter is much different from your resume. Your resume lists your experience and qualifications, a cover letter introduces you to your potential employer, highlights your relevant skills, and demonstrates your knowledge of the childcare industry – all in a brief document. 

Tailoring your cover letter for each role shows you’ve done your research and sets you apart from other applicants. Do your research: Before writing your cover letter:

• Gather all relevant documents and update your resume.
• Research the childcare centre’s business values, mission statement, and history.
• Address the hiring manager by name if possible; if not, use ‘Hiring Manager’.
• Learn about the accreditation required to become a child care worker.

Childcare Cover Letter Structure

A strong cover letter contains:

1. Salutation: Greet the hiring manager personally.
2. Introduction: Start with a ‘hook’ about yourself and why you’re applying.
3. Body: Highlight relevant experience, skills, and values. Include specific examples.
4. Conclusion: Sum up why you’re the best fit and include a call to action.

Most cover letters are 1–2 pages; clarity and brevity are key.

Writing the Introduction

Start strong and capture attention. Mention your experience, achievements, or how you came across the role:

Dear Hiring Manager,

When I first heard about Edge Early Learning, I knew it was the perfect fit. With 25 years in childcare and a passion for inquiry-based learning, I believe the role of Lead Educator is exactly what I’ve been searching for.

Writing the Body Paragraph

Explain what you bring to the role:

• Include your qualifications: Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CHC30113), Diploma (CHC50113), First Aid, CPR, Anaphylaxis, and Asthma Awareness training.
• Highlight relevant skills: verbal communication, planning activities, critical thinking, and working with children.
• Mention unique experiences: e.g., parenting experience, volunteering, or other relevant roles.

Example:

Throughout my 25 years in childcare, I have honed my skills in planning, communication, and problem-solving. I have extensive experience supporting children’s development and implementing the Early Learning Framework. As a highly organised individual, I value clear communication and enjoy creating nurturing environments.

Writing the Conclusion

Close by summarising your suitability and providing a clear call to action:

Please find attached my resume and relevant certifications. I thank you for reading my cover letter and hope we can arrange a time to connect over the phone or in person. I am available at 0412 345 678.

Regards, Your Name

Other Childcare Cover Letter Tips & Tricks

• Have a friend or family member review your letter.
• Check spelling, grammar, and tone.
• Keep the letter concise and personalised.
• Learn more about careers with Edge Early Learning.

Apply for a Job at Edge Early Learning

Edge Early Learning is expanding across South East Queensland and South Australia. We prioritise both quality education for children and career development for our staff.

Find out how you can make a difference with Edge Early Learning: Apply here.