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Janelle embraces diversity in early childhood education and care

Jannelle McKercher, a TAFE Queensland Early Childhood Education and Care educator, is dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive learning environment — helping to shape the future of early childhood education in her local community and enriching the lives of her students. 

Janelle spent more than two decades working in the industry, and motivated to pass on her knowledge, made the decision to undertake her Certificate IV in Training and Assessment (TAE40122) through TAFE Queensland.

“I chose to complete the training and assessment course because I was keen to move into a role that enabled me teach and mentor the next generation of early childhood educators,” explained Janelle.

Upon completing her studies, Jannelle was recruited by TAFE Queensland in 2021, and ever since she’s been teaching the Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CHC30121) course based at the Toowoomba campus.

“I’m the primary teacher for the course at the Toowoomba campus, but I also go out in industry to complete student observations — it’s a great opportunity to maintain my connection with current practices,” said Janelle.

Jannelle is always keen to learn more about her culturally diverse cohort of students and she encourages a learning environment which embrace all cultures and creates a sense of community in the classroom.

“Teaching in early childhood is all about a love for teaching and learning, and I’m particularly passionate about learning about different cultures,” said Janelle.

“Recently, I worked closely with TAFE Queensland’s Indigenous Student Support Officer, Tammy Rassmussen, to hold an Indigenous cooking session during one of our classes.”

“Tammy is very knowledgeable about native ingredients and grows many of these ingredients in her own home garden. Together with the students we learnt more about native ingredients and baked a selection of delicious recipes featuring these home-grown herbs and vegetables.”

“It was a great opportunity for us to gain insight into First Nations culture and knowledge. I believe that if you can change the learning activities from time-to- time, and include these really practical experiences, new avenues for growth appear and we can create a beautiful connection in the classroom.”

Tammy is one of a number of guests Janelle has invited to provide interactive and engaging classroom-based sessions throughout the year.

“My classroom is diverse, and I love to learn about how we can be creative with the learning criteria and adapt to suit all needs and requirements,” added Janelle.

To complement the hands-on training and placements during the Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CHC30121) course, students learn a variety of foundational skills essential for working in early childhood workplace settings.

Course participants graduate with the ability to plan and implementing educational programs and ensure the health, safety, and well-being of children, learn insights into child development stages and gain the skills to work effectively with children and families from diverse cultural backgrounds.