Applications are now open for the Certificate III Upskill Support Program (CUSP), which provides financial support towards the cost of studying for educators looking to upskill.
Certificate III-qualified educators who want to upskill to become Diploma qualified are encouraged to apply for up to $7,000 to help support them while studying.
More than 400 educators accessed CUSP in 2024. This year, we have also added a new regional stream which targets eligible educators living in rural and regional Victoria for support.
A passion to help children grow and thrive across generations
Wodonga Institute of TAFE is part of the Early Childhood Tertiary Partnerships Program, offering tailored courses with additional wrap-around supports that make it easier for students to study.
Jessi Johan Laycock is currently accessing CUSP and is on track to complete her Diploma in Early Childhood Education at the end of March 2025.
Jessi is following in her mother’s footsteps, by taking up further study in early childhood after realising her passion while working at Kids on Campus Early Learning Centre, Wodonga Institute of TAFE.
‘My mum is a big influence. She has worked in early childhood education for many years. After watching and learning from her, I fell in love with the job.’
Jessi said she loved many aspects of working in the sector.
‘I love all the “awwww” moments and watching the children learn new skills.
‘I also love building those relationships of trust with a child that helps them grow and thrive.’
Career pathway to teaching
‘I decided to begin further study in 2024, after filling in as a room leader,’ Jessi said.
‘I enjoyed setting up the learning experience then watching the children explore and learn through their play.’
When Jessi learned about CUSP from an early childhood teacher, she knew it would go a long way to help her financially while she undertook further study, so she decided to apply.
‘Any financial support helps me cover my costs, especially while I complete placements.’
How to apply
If you’re an eligible educator who holds a current Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) currently working in the sector and wish to upskill to a Diploma of ECEC, you can apply for financial support under CUSP.
To view the eligibility criteria and apply, refer to the early childhood scholarships and incentives application portal.
Applications are now open and will close on Friday 13 June 2025, or when all program places are filled. Submit your application as soon as possible to improve your chances of receiving support under this program.
For information about courses to upskill to a Diploma of ECEC, refer to: Find an early childhood education course. You may still be eligible to apply for CUSP will accessing a place through Free TAFE.
If you are looking for options to upskill to a Diploma with more support, refer to the Early Childhood Tertiary Partnerships program webpage. The program offers tailored courses with a range of benefits to support you while you study.
For further enquiries about CUSP, contact BUSY At Work (who administers the program on behalf of the department):
- phone: 1300 161 396
- email: ec.financial.support@education.vic.gov.au
Updated