NSW is investing $12.2 million in its early childhood education workforce.

The funding includes scholarships aimed at bolstering the early childhood education and care workforce, both expanding the existing early childhood education and care workforce in NSW and retaining current professionals.

The plan, endorsed by the Minister for Education and Early Learning, Prue Car, aims to provide 1,700 scholarships. 

The objective is to address the shortage of skilled caregivers in the state, particularly in roles that involve caring for young children.

Car says it is one of the most valuable contributions a government can make. 

The scholarships offer opportunities to individuals aspiring to become early childhood educators, current educators looking to enhance their skills, and those interested in Outside School Hours Care (OSCH) training.

Four distinct types of scholarships are available:

1. Scholarships for individuals pursuing a bachelor's or master's degree in teaching with a specialisation in early childhood education (up to $25,000).

2. Scholarships for those working towards relevant graduate certificates or graduate diplomas (up to $15,000).

3. Scholarships for individuals studying relevant diplomas in Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) or School Age Education and Care (up to $5,000).

4. Scholarships for students earning a Certificate III in ECEC or OSHC (up to $3,000).

In a move to streamline the application process, the NSW Department of Education has removed application rounds, allowing both current and prospective students to apply for scholarships throughout the year. 

Additionally, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students have access to a targeted scholarship stream.