Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 108165D) is a Certificate III delivered by FIRST CHOICE EDUCATION PTY. LTD. over 1 year. This qualification is ideal for international students seeking a career in early childhood education, focusing on child development, safety, and learning through play. The course combines theoretical knowledge with practical work placement, providing a strong foundation for further study or employment in Australia's growing early childhood sector. Delivered at campuses in Parramatta and Melbourne, this CRICOS-registered program ensures quality education under the ESOS Act. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026).
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 108165D) is a Certificate III (AQF Level 3) qualification delivered by FIRST CHOICE EDUCATION PTY. LTD., a private CRICOS-registered provider (CRICOS 03838G). This course falls under the field of education (07) specifically Teacher Education: Early Childhood (070101). The national VET code is CHC30121. The course is designed to equip students with skills to support children's learning and development in early childhood settings. As a CRICOS-registered course, international students can study this program on a Student visa (Subclass 500). Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and this course is one of them. The ESOS Act protects the rights of overseas students, ensuring quality education and consumer protection.
This course covers the fundamentals of early childhood education, including child development, health and safety, play-based learning, and inclusive practices. Students learn to create supportive environments that foster children's social, emotional, and cognitive growth. The curriculum aligns with the Australian Children's Education & Care Quality Authority (ACECQA) standards. While specific unit details are determined by the provider, graduates typically gain practical skills to work as educators in childcare centres and preschools. The field of education is in high demand in Australia, with early childhood educators playing a vital role in the community.
The course duration is 1 year (52 weeks) as registered on CRICOS. It is delivered full-time, with English as the language of instruction. This is a single qualification (no dual qualification), and it is not a foundation studies program. Students should expect a structured timetable with classes, self-study, and work placement hours. The duration allows international students to complete the qualification within their Student visa validity.
Indicative fees set by FIRST CHOICE EDUCATION PTY. LTD. are: tuition A$15,750, non-tuition fees A$750, estimated total A$16,500. Please note these are indicative only, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Fees are set by the institution and subject to change. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (e.g., rent, food, transport), and the visa application charge. Students should confirm current fees directly with FIRST CHOICE EDUCATION PTY. LTD. before applying.
General entry guidance for this course level suggests an IELTS overall score of 5.0-5.5 (or equivalent). Prior qualifications: typically completion of Australian Year 10 or equivalent for Certificate III. Foundation or pathway options may be available — contact the provider for details. English language requirements must be met for Student visa purposes. Always check the provider's specific requirements as CRICOS-listed minimums can vary.
This course includes a mandatory work component: 8 weeks of placement at 20 hours per week, totalling approximately 160 hours. This work-integrated learning (industry placement) provides hands-on experience in early childhood settings such as childcare centres or preschools. It is an integral part of the qualification, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in real environments. Students must arrange placement with the provider's support and ensure compliance with visa work conditions.
The course is delivered at three locations: (1) Level 7 Parramatta, PARRAMATTA, NSW; (2) Level 8 85 Queen St, MELBOURNE, VIC 3000; (3) Levels 1 & 2 16-18 Wentworth Street, PARRAMATTA, NSW 2150. Parramatta is a major commercial hub in Western Sydney, with a large student population and excellent public transport (train and bus). Melbourne's CBD campus offers access to a vibrant city with numerous study and lifestyle opportunities. Both cities have numerous CRICOS-registered providers; for example, NSW has over 400 providers, and Victoria over 300, offering a wide range of courses.
Parramatta is a popular destination for international students due to its affordable living costs compared to Sydney's city centre. Indicative weekly rent for shared accommodation is around A$200-300, groceries A$80-120, and a weekly transport pass A$40-60. The city has a diverse student community and is home to many educational institutions. With multiple campuses in Parramatta, this course offers convenient access to placement opportunities in Western Sydney's growing early childhood sector.
International students study this course on a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements: Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and sufficient financial capacity. Student work rights: up to 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). The course duration (1 year) covers the typical visa length. Always consult a registered migration agent or the Department of Home Affairs for individual visa advice. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care at FIRST CHOICE EDUCATION PTY. LTD.: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Certificate III), field (Education), and city (Parramatta or Melbourne). Verify CRICOS registration. 2. Apply directly to FIRST CHOICE EDUCATION PTY. LTD.: Check entry requirements (English test, academic qualifications) and application deadlines. Submit your application and required documents. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, the provider issues a CoE. Use it to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs, ensuring you meet GTE, OSHC, and financial requirements.
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Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at FIRST CHOICE EDUCATION PTY. LTD.. 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.