Become an Educator with Upper Hunter Family Day Care

Start Your Career as a Family Day Care Educator

Upper Hunter Family Day Care (UHFDC) offers eligible applicants $2,500 grants to help start their own Family Day Care business. Work from home, on your schedule, with comprehensive support.

If you are passionate about working with children, or already work in the childcare industry but want a positive career change, contact Upper Hunter Family Day Care for more information.
We would love to talk to you about the requirements and what we can do to support you to run a successful and well-paying business, by working from your home.

Benefits of Becoming a Family Day Care Educator

  • Flexible Work: Care for small groups of children from home, with the flexibility to set your hours and work days. You can stay home with your own children and provide regular playmates for them, saving on your own childcare costs. Or increase your business earning with additional children in care, if you don’t have your own children.
  • Independent Business: Run your own childcare business with creative freedom, control and decision making, while following necessary guidelines.
  • Personalised Care: Provide individualised attention, creating meaningful learning experiences.
  • Supportive Community: Join a network of local educators and build lasting relationships with families.

Potential Earnings

Earnings vary by hours, number of children, and your set fees. Here’s an example for a standard 40-hour week caring for four children under school age and decide to charge $15 per hour per child:

Weekly earnings: 40 hours x 4 children x $15/hour = *$2,400 gross income 

*Estimates may vary. Contact UHFDC for personalised details.

Higher income could result if you also care for before and after school children, or provide non –standard hours of care such as weekends, overnight and evenings, or if you choose to charge higher rates.

Startup Costs

Some initial costs apply, many tax-deductible, such as certifications, safety modifications, equipment, and insurance. The $2,500 grant can help cover these expenses. Contact us for a cost breakdown.

Comprehensive Support

  • $2,500 Grant for eligible educators
  • Training & Guidance tailored to your needs
  • Admin & Timesheet Support, fee collection and documentation
  • Regular Home Visits by childcare staff to monitor and support your business
  • Promotional Assistance

Qualifications

To qualify, you need:

  • Certificate III in Early Childhood Education or higher
  • First Aid & CPR Certification
  • Working With Children Clearance & Police Check
  • Be at least 18 years of age

Get Started

If you’re ready to start a rewarding career in Family Day Care, reach out to us:

  • Call: (02) 6540 1151 to speak with our friendly team
  • Email: uhfdc@upperhunter.nsw.gov.au for more information
  • Expression of Interest Form: Request a form or go to the link below to begin your journey with Upper Hunter Family Day Care. Fill out the Expression of Interest Form and send or bring it in to our Co-ordination Unit.

Expression of Interest Form(PDF, 152KB)

Becoming a FDC Educator(PDF, 189KB)

Our team is here to guide you every step of the way!

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to own my home?

No, but landlord permission is required.

Is my entire home needed?

Some Educators use their whole home and others designate specific areas
You will need a safe playspace , sleeping space, Food preparation area and toileting area. We will advise further when we talk to you about your plans, and do your Home Safety Check.

Can I take children on outings?

Yes, with permissions in place.

Do I need to follow Government rules?

Yes. The Government sets out regulations which we all have to meet. These protect you and the children. The staff will talk to you about requirements and give you training.

Do you provide training and ongoing professional development for Educators?

Yes – a range of meetings and training are organized during the year as well as online shared information and Learning experiences.

Do I need Public Liability Insurance?

Yes – the staff can advise on what is needed.

Can’t find an answer to your question? Contact us on 02 6540 1151

What Our Educators Say

“It’s rewarding to help children grow while building connections with families.” — UHFDC Educator, 2024

“Running a flexible business that fits my schedule while impacting children’s lives is invaluable.” — UHFDC Educator, 2024

After more info? Contact us

Upper Hunter Family Day Care
Phone: (02) 6540 1151
Email:
uhfdc@upperhunter.nsw.gov.au

UHFDC has been proudly supporting families since 1979, sponsored by Upper Hunter Shire Council.