Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 108726J) is a Certificate III delivered by Riverdale Institute Pty Ltd over 1 year. This qualification provides foundational skills for those entering the early childhood education sector in Australia, covering child development, safety, and inclusive practices. As a CRICOS-registered course (CRICOS provider code 03949M), it meets Australian Government standards for international students. HeadStart Academy brings you this detailed guide to help you understand the course structure, fees, entry requirements, and visa pathways. Whether you're in Melbourne or Werribee, this course offers a pathway to a rewarding career in early childhood education.
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Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS 108726J) is a one-year program at AQF Level 3, delivered by Riverdale Institute Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03949M). This course is designed for international students aspiring to work in early childhood settings such as daycare centers, preschools, and family day care. The qualification equips students with practical skills to support children's learning and development, ensure safety, and work effectively with families. With no mandatory work component, the focus is on classroom-based learning and assessment. As with all courses on HeadStart Academy, this course is listed on the CRICOS register—Australia's official database for courses offered to overseas students—ensuring you study with a legitimate provider.
This course falls under the field of education (07: Education, 0701: Teacher Education, 070101: Teacher Education: Early Childhood). Students typically learn about child development from birth to school age, health and safety practices, designing engaging learning experiences, and building relationships with children and families. The curriculum covers legal and ethical frameworks, cultural competence, and inclusion strategies. While specific syllabi vary by provider, graduates of this level are prepared to work as early childhood educators under supervision. The VET national code for this course is CHC30121, aligning with national competency standards.
The course runs for 1 year (52 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. Instruction is in English, and it is a single qualification (not a dual or foundation program). Riverdale Institute delivers this course in a face-to-face setting at its campuses in West Melbourne and Werribee. International students should note that the duration is fixed and designed to meet visa requirements for full-time study. No online or blended options are indicated on the CRICOS register.
Tuition fees: A$11,000. Non-tuition fees: A$1,000. Estimated total: A$12,000. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register and are indicative only. Additional costs include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (approximately A$21,041 per year for a single student in Victoria as per Department of Home Affairs guidelines), and the student visa application charge (currently A$1,600). Always confirm current fees with Riverdale Institute Pty Ltd before applying. HeadStart Academy does not handle payments or guarantee fee amounts.
International students typically need an IELTS score of 5.0–5.5 overall (or equivalent) to meet English language requirements. Applicants should have completed Australian Year 10 or equivalent overseas qualification. No prior study in early childhood education is necessary, but a genuine interest in working with children is expected. For Foundation Studies or pathway options, contact Riverdale Institute directly. Entry requirements are set by the provider and are subject to change.
This course has no mandatory work component. While practical placements are common in early childhood courses, the CRICOS register indicates no work component for this program. Students may seek voluntary or casual work related to their field outside of study hours, subject to visa conditions.
Riverdale Institute delivers this course at two locations in Victoria: Miller Street in West Melbourne (close to the CBD) and Unit 19, 2-14 Station Place in Werribee (a growing suburb in Melbourne's west). Both campuses are accessible via public transport. West Melbourne is near Flagstaff Station, while Werribee has its own train station. Melbourne is home to over 200 CRICOS-registered providers, offering a vibrant student community. Living costs in Melbourne are estimated at around A$450–550 per week for rent, A$80–120 for groceries, and A$30–50 for public transport (myki card).
This course qualifies for a Student visa (Subclass 500). You must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, obtain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity (tuition, living costs, and travel). Student work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). All CRICOS-registered institutions, including Riverdale Institute, are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring tuition assurance and complaint mechanisms. For visa application guidance, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs.
Victoria is Australia's second-most popular destination for international students, with Melbourne consistently ranked among the world's most liveable cities. The state offers excellent public transport, diverse cultural experiences, and a strong early childhood education sector. With over 1,500 CRICOS providers nationwide, Victoria hosts a significant share. Consider factors like climate (temperate with four seasons), cost of living (higher in city center), and job opportunities for early childhood educators. HeadStart Academy provides free resources to help you compare courses and locations.
Follow this three-step process to enrol in Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care at Riverdale Institute Pty Ltd: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Certificate III), field (Education), and location (VIC). Verify Riverdale Institute's current registration. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check entry requirements (English language test scores, academic documents) and application deadlines. Submit your application via Riverdale Institute's website or through an authorised education agent. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, the provider issues a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs, including OSHC evidence and financial documents.
Apply now via Riverdale Institute's website after verifying CRICOS registration and checking entry requirements.
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Riverdale Institute 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.