Affinity Learning Academy
The Affinity Learning Academy is Affinity Education’s dedicated professional development program, giving every eligible team member access to funded, nationally recognised qualifications without leaving their job.
Since launching in 2017, more than 2,000 Affinity team members have earned qualifications through the Academy. From Certificate III to university degree, we support educators at every stage of their career, with on-the-job training, paid study time, and dedicated Development Coaches who work alongside you in your centre.
What the Academy offers
- Funded qualifications for eligible team members - no out-of-pocket costs
- Paid study time built into your working week
- On-the-job training in your own centre - no need to travel
- One-on-one support from a dedicated Development Coach
- Delivery through trusted, nationally registered training organisations (RTOs)
- Endorsed micro-credentials that recognise your skills as you build them
Qualifications available
Through the Academy, team members can study towards qualifications in:
- Early Childhood Education and Care (Certificate III and Diploma)
- Leadership and Management
- Community Services
- Business
All programs are flexible and self-paced, designed to fit around your work and your life.
Your training pathway
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care
The Certificate III is the entry point to a career in early childhood education, and the starting point for many of Affinity’s most experienced educators and leaders.
You’ll gain hands-on experience in a real early learning environment while building your knowledge of child development, health and safety, and learning through play.
This fully funded qualification includes:
- On-the-job training at your own centre
- Paid study time and flexible, self-paced learning
- Dedicated one-on-one support from a Development Coach
Learn more >
Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care
The Diploma builds on your Certificate III and opens the door to leadership roles, including Lead Educator, Educational Leader and beyond.
You’ll deepen your knowledge of program planning, child development and early learning frameworks, with the same level of practical support that got you to this point.
This pathway:
- Fully subsidised tuition for eligible employees
- Continued support from your Development Coach
- A clear pathway toward internal promotion and career progression
Learn more >
Bachelor of Early Childhood Education
The Affinity Teacher Scholarship Pathway supports diploma-qualified educators who are ready to become university-qualified Early Childhood Teachers.
Through cash contributions toward your tuition costs, you can complete a Bachelor of Early Childhood Education while continuing to work, with the support of your centre team and Affinity’s national Education team at every stage.
Learn more >
Delivered in partnership with leading RTOs
The Affinity Learning Academy works with trusted, nationally registered training organisations to deliver your qualifications. This means your training is:
- Practical, relevant and aligned to industry requirements
- Delivered by expert training providers
- Fully recognised under the Australian Qualifications Framework
- Supported on the ground by Affinity’s own Development Coaches
Micro-credentials
Learning at Affinity isn’t only about formal qualifications. Our micro-credential program recognises the skills you build along the way, with endorsed digital credentials in areas including mentoring, leadership and professional practice.
These credentials are yours to keep and share, building a professional profile that reflects your real-world capabilities.
Ready to get started?
Whether you’re new to early childhood education or looking to take the next step, the Affinity Learning Academy has a pathway for you. Speak to our team to find out what’s available in your role and your centre.
