Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 109391H) is a Certificate III delivered by TAFE Queensland over 51 weeks (~12 months). This qualification is designed for international students aspiring to work in early childhood education, covering essential skills for nurturing children from birth to five years. TAFE Queensland is a government-owned CRICOS-registered provider (03020E) with multiple campuses across Queensland. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource, sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026.
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The Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 109391H) is an AQF Level 3 qualification in the field of Teacher Education (n.f.c.). It prepares graduates to work in regulated children's education and care services, supporting the implementation of approved learning frameworks. The course is delivered over 51 weeks (approximately 12 months) by TAFE Queensland, a respected government institution. This qualification has a VET national code of CHC30121 and includes a mandatory work component of 20 weeks (8 hours per week, approximately 160 total hours) to provide real-world experience. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards for international students.
This Certificate III focuses on the field of Teacher Education, specifically early childhood education. Students learn to support children's well-being, development, and learning through play-based activities. Topics typically include fostering relationships with children and families, supporting inclusive participation, and working within legal and ethical frameworks. Graduates gain skills in observing and documenting children's learning, ensuring health and safety, and promoting positive behaviour. While the exact syllabus is set by TAFE Queensland, the course equips students with foundational knowledge to pursue further study or entry-level roles in early childhood settings.
The course runs for 51 weeks (approximately 12 months) as recorded on the CRICOS register. Instruction is in English, and it is a single qualification (not a dual or foundation program). Students attend classes at TAFE Queensland campuses, with a combination of face-to-face learning and online components as determined by the provider. Full-time study is required to meet student visa conditions. The course includes a work placement component, which is integrated into the 51-week duration.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$9,200, with no additional non-tuition fees listed on the CRICOS register. The estimated total is A$9,200. These fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. Please note that fees are set by the institution and subject to change. For the most current fee schedule, visit TAFE Queensland's official website. As a guide, international students should budget for additional costs: OSHC (approx. A$600–$1,000 per year), living expenses (A$21,000+ per year), and visa application fees (as per Department of Home Affairs rates).
International applicants typically require an English language proficiency equivalent to IELTS 5.0-5.5 overall (no band less than 5.0). Prior qualifications expected include completion of Australian Year 10 or equivalent. This course does not include foundation studies; however, TAFE Queensland may offer pathway options for students who do not meet direct entry requirements – check with the provider. All entry requirements are set by TAFE Queensland and subject to change. Applicants should verify the latest requirements directly with the institution.
Yes, this course includes a mandatory work component: 20 weeks, 8 hours per week, totalling approximately 160 hours. This is a work-integrated learning placement in a regulated early childhood education setting, such as a childcare centre or preschool. The placement provides practical experience under supervision, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world contexts. It is an integral part of the course and may require a Working with Children Check or equivalent. All placements comply with the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act protections.
This course is delivered at six TAFE Queensland campuses across Queensland: Ipswich (Bundamba), Mooloolaba (Mountain Creek), Robina (Robina), South Bank (South Brisbane), Southport (Southport), and Springfield (Springfield Central). These locations are in major urban centres with good public transport links and student amenities. For example, South Bank campus is in Brisbane's cultural precinct, while Robina and Southport are on the Gold Coast. Each campus offers modern facilities and support services for international students. Queensland is home to hundreds of CRICOS-registered providers, making it a popular study destination with a diverse student population and relatively lower living costs compared to Sydney or Melbourne (indicative weekly rent: A$200–$350).
International students require a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course full-time in Australia. Key visa conditions include: maintaining enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, satisfying the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, holding Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the visa duration, and demonstrating sufficient financial capacity. Student work rights allow up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited work during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. The ESOS Act provides legal protections, including refund guarantees and access to complaints mechanisms. All listed institutions are CRICOS-registered, ensuring compliance with Australian Government standards. For personalised visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs.
To apply for Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care at TAFE Queensland, follow these three steps: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field, and city. TAFE Queensland (CRICOS 03020E) is a verified provider. 2. Apply directly to TAFE Queensland – Check the specific entry requirements (including English language test scores and academic qualifications) and submit your application via their international admissions portal. Note application deadlines. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – Once you accept your offer and pay any required deposit, TAFE Queensland will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs.
Queensland offers a vibrant lifestyle and a strong early childhood education sector. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers across Australia, Queensland hosts many top institutions. The state has a diverse student community, affordable living costs compared to Sydney or Melbourne (indicative weekly rent A$200–$350, groceries A$80–$150), and excellent transport connections. TAFE Queensland's campuses are located in growing regions like Ipswich, the Sunshine Coast (Mooloolaba), and the Gold Coast (Robina, Southport), providing access to both urban and coastal environments. The demand for qualified early childhood educators is high in Australia, making this qualification a solid career investment. Remember that all CRICOS-registered courses are protected by the ESOS Act.
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Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at TAFE Queensland. 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.