Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 108244E) is a Certificate III delivered by Penfold College Pty Ltd over 1 year. This nationally recognised qualification (CHC30121) is designed for those who want to work in early childhood education settings, such as childcare centres, preschools, and family day care. The course covers core skills in child development, health and safety, and educational program support. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards for international students, ensuring quality education and work placement opportunities. HeadStart Academy sources all data from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to provide accurate, up-to-date information. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, Australia is a leading destination for international students in education studies.
This course falls under the field of Education (07) with a focus on Early Childhood Teacher Education. Students learn to support children's learning and development, plan and implement activities, and maintain safe environments. Graduates of Certificate III level typically gain foundational skills for entry-level roles as early childhood educators or assistants. The curriculum aligns with national early years learning frameworks and includes practical units on fostering relationships, cultural competence, and inclusion.
The course is delivered over 52 weeks (1 year) and is taught in English. It is a single qualification with no dual or foundation study options. Penfold College offers this course at its Melbourne campus. Full-time study is expected, allowing international students to maintain their student visa conditions.
Penfold College Pty Ltd sets the following indicative fees for Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care: tuition fee A$15,000, non-tuition fees A$2,000, estimated total A$17,000. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Additional costs include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (approximately A$21,041 per year for a single student), and the student visa application charge. Always confirm current fees with the provider. All CRICOS-registered providers must adhere to the ESOS Act, which protects international students' tuition fees.
International students typically need an IELTS overall score of 5.0–5.5 (or equivalent) for entry into Certificate III programs. Penfold College may also require completion of Year 12 or equivalent. No foundation or pathway studies are listed for this course; however, applicants without the required English level should contact the provider for options. Always check specific entry requirements with Penfold College directly.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 4 weeks (160 hours total) at 40 hours per week. This industry placement is designed to give students hands-on experience in early childhood settings, such as long day care centres or preschools. Work-integrated learning is a core part of many VET courses in Australia and helps students apply theoretical knowledge in real environments while building professional networks.
The course is delivered at Level 3, 123 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne VIC 3000. Melbourne is Victoria's capital city, home to over 200,000 international students and more than 100 CRICOS-registered providers. The campus is well-connected by public transport, with trams and trains nearby. Living costs in Melbourne are estimated at around A$500–600 per week for rent, groceries, and transport, though this varies by lifestyle.
To study this course, international students need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key conditions include: maintaining enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, holding Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Dependents may apply for a Student Guardian visa (Subclass 590). For visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit the Department of Home Affairs.
Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city and a top study destination for education students. With over 30 CRICOS-registered providers offering early childhood education courses, networking and placement opportunities are abundant. The city has a multicultural population, strong public transport, and a vibrant arts scene. Consider your budget for living costs—Melbourne is generally more affordable than Sydney but pricier than Brisbane. Many education students enjoy the café culture and access to parks. Use HeadStart Academy's tools to compare providers and courses.
Follow these three steps to apply for Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care at Penfold College: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Filter by course level, field, and city on HeadStart Academy. Compare entry requirements, fees, and location. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Submit your application to Penfold College with required documents (transcripts, English test results, passport). Check application deadlines. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, use the CoE to lodge a visa application, ensuring you meet financial and health requirements.
Ready to start your early childhood education journey? Compare similar courses or contact Penfold College directly via their CRICOS-registered profile.
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Penfold College 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.