Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 107589K) is a Certificate III delivered by Imagine Education Australia Pty Ltd as trustee for The Imagine Education Australia Unit Trust over 46 weeks (~11 months). This qualification is at AQF Level 3, designed for individuals seeking to work in early childhood education settings. Graduates typically gain skills in supporting children's development, fostering inclusive environments, and implementing approved learning frameworks. With a strong work-integrated learning component of approximately 160 hours, students gain practical experience in real childcare centres. The course is ideal for international students aiming to build a career in early childhood education in Australia. As a CRICOS-registered provider, Imagine Education Australia meets the Australian Government's quality standards for international education. HeadStart Academy is a free resource connecting students to over 26,000 CRICOS courses—no referral fees, just trustworthy data sourced from the official register.
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Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 107589K) is a Certificate III delivered by Imagine Education Australia Pty Ltd as trustee for The Imagine Education Australia Unit Trust over 46 weeks (~11 months). This course sits in the field of Education (07), specifically Teacher Education: Early Childhood (070101). It is a VET qualification with national code CHC30121. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 02695C), it meets Australian standards for international students. The course is offered across multiple locations in Queensland and South Australia, making it accessible to students in different regions. Imagine Education Australia is a private provider listed on CRICOS, and all listed institutions on HeadStart Academy are verified against the official register (April 2026).
In this course, students explore the fundamentals of early childhood education and care. The curriculum covers child development, health and safety, creating supportive learning environments, and building relationships with children and families. Graduates will be prepared to work as early childhood educators in long day care, family day care, or preschool settings. The course aligns with the Australian Children's Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA) standards. While specific units are set by the provider, typical topics include supporting children's play and learning, complying with regulatory frameworks, and fostering cultural competence. This certificate provides a pathway to further study, such as a Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care.
The course runs for 46 weeks (~11 months) as per the CRICOS register. Instruction is in English, and it is a single qualification (not a dual or foundation program). The full-time study load is designed to meet student visa requirements. With 46 weeks duration, students can plan their visa accordingly. The course is delivered face-to-face at the campuses listed below. International students should note that their student visa (Subclass 500) requires satisfactory course attendance and progress.
Tuition fees are indicative at A$26,500, with non-tuition fees of A$500, totalling an estimated A$27,000. These amounts are sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026) and are set by the provider. Please visit www.imagineeducation.com.au for current fees. Additional costs not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (e.g., rent, food, transport), and the student visa application charge. For cost of living estimates, in Queensland cities like Brisbane or Gold Coast, weekly rent can range from A$200–350, with groceries around A$80–150. HeadStart Academy provides indicative figures only; always confirm with the institution and official sources.
English language proficiency: IELTS 5.0–5.5 overall (or equivalent). Applicants should typically have completed Australian Year 10 or equivalent. Prior qualifications expected for Certificate III level may include secondary education. For pathway options, contact Imagine Education Australia directly if you need foundation studies. Remember, entry requirements are set by the provider and can change—check the provider's website for the most up-to-date information.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 20 weeks, with approximately 160 total hours (hours per week not specified, but likely 8 hours/week). This is a workplace-based learning experience, often called a professional placement or internship, where students apply their skills in a real early childhood education setting. It provides valuable industry experience and may be undertaken at partnered childcare centres. The work component is integral to the qualification and helps students meet the requirements for the CHC30121 certificate.
The course is delivered at six campuses across Queensland and South Australia: - 13 Benowa Road, SOUTHPORT — SOUTHPORT, QLD - 151 Currumburra Road Ashmore — ASHMORE, QLD - 413-417 Ross River Road, Cranbrook — Cranbrook, QLD - Angle Vale Campus — Angle Vale, SA - Ingle Farm Campus — INGLE FARM, SA - Level 2, 170 Leichhardt St, Spring Hill QLD — Spring Hill QLD, QLD Queensland has over 1,100 CRICOS-registered providers, with Brisbane and Gold Coast being major student hubs. South Australia has around 200 providers, with Adelaide as the primary city. Public transport connects most campuses. For specific campus facilities, visit the provider's website.
International students need a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course full-time. Student work rights allow up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). You must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and demonstrate financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. The Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act protects your rights, including access to tuition protection and transparent information. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice—consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit homeaffairs.gov.au.
Queensland is a popular destination for international students, with a warm climate, diverse cities, and a strong early childhood education sector. Brisbane has over 100,000 international students, while the Gold Coast is known for its lifestyle and growing education industry. Living costs in Queensland are generally lower than Sydney or Melbourne, with average weekly rent around A$250–350 for shared accommodation. Public transport includes trains, buses, and light rail, with student concessions available. If you prefer the relaxed pace of South Australia, campuses in Angle Vale and Ingle Farm offer access to Adelaide, a more affordable city with rent averaging A$200–300 per week. Consider your preferences for climate, cost, and campus location.
Follow these 3 steps to apply for Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care at Imagine Education Australia: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers — Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field, and city. You're already viewing a CRICOS-registered course (107589K) at a verified provider (02695C). 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution — Visit imagineeducation.com.au to check entry requirements, book an English test (if needed), and submit your application. Deadlines vary, so apply early. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) — Once accepted, the provider will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds.
Ready to start your early childhood education journey? Explore this course on HeadStart Academy and take the first step toward studying in Australia.
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Imagine Education Australia Pty Ltd as trustee for The Imagine Education Australia Unit Trust. Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.