A huge demand for nannies in the Waikato has prompted a leading in-home childcare provider to start a free new nanny intern course in the region.
PORSE has expanded its nanny intern programme and started a new course in Hamilton this week for 17-25-year-olds, which will enable them to gain a National Certificate in Early Childhood Education and Care (Level 3), as well as hands-on experience.
The course is free and has two intakes each year. It runs for 20 weeks, enabling people like young Hamilton mother Asher-Maree Marks to get into the early childhood sector. Ms Marks is excited about the opportunity because it will be the only course of its kind in the region.
"I have been waiting for a programme like this for so long. I want to get a qualification in early childhood education and this course is the answer."
The 22-year-old has a three-year-old daughter Stacey and is currently a stay-at-home mother. She says she has always been passionate about children and this qualification is the perfect start to her career in early childhood education.