Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 110496M) is a Certificate III delivered by Australian Careers College Pty Ltd over 1 year. This qualification equips students with foundational skills to work in early childhood settings, supporting children's development and learning. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 03029G), it meets Australian government standards for international students. Graduates can pursue roles such as early childhood educator or assistant, with pathways to further study. The course is delivered in Sydney and Darwin, offering flexibility for students. With Australia's high demand for qualified educators, this certificate opens doors to a rewarding career. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource – all data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026.
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Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS 110496M) is a nationally recognised qualification (AQF Level 3) under the Vocational Education and Training (VET) framework. It is delivered by Australian Careers College Pty Ltd, a private CRICOS-registered provider (03029G). The course focuses on equipping students with practical skills to care for and educate children from birth to five years. Key topics include child development, health and safety, play-based learning, and cultural competence. Graduates are prepared to work in daycare centres, preschools, and family day care. As a CRICOS course, it is available to international students and covered by the ESOS Act, ensuring quality and consumer protection. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses – this course is a trusted option for those entering early childhood education.
This course falls under the field of education: Teacher Education: Early Childhood (070101). Students learn to support children's learning and development through observation, planning, and implementing activities aligned with the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF). Core units cover areas such as fostering children's health and safety, supporting inclusion, and building relationships with families. While the exact syllabus is set by the provider, graduates at this level typically gain competence in communicating with children, responding to emergencies, and maintaining a safe environment. The course blends theory and practical skills, preparing students for real-world early childhood settings. For detailed unit information, refer to Australian Careers College's website or the CRICOS register.
The course is delivered over 1 year (52 weeks) as per the CRICOS register. Language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification – no dual or foundation studies are included. Study mode may include face-to-face classes at the delivery locations. Students should confirm the specific timetable (e.g., full-time, part-time options) directly with Australian Careers College. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) must maintain full-time enrolment. The course is designed to be completed within the standard duration, allowing students to progress efficiently. As a VET course, it focuses on practical, job-ready skills.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$18,000, with non-tuition fees of A$1,200, totalling approximately A$19,200. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by Australian Careers College – they are subject to change. Always confirm the current fees directly with the provider at www.accollege.edu.au. Note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and visa application charges are not included. International students should budget for additional expenses such as accommodation, food, transport, and study materials. Indicative living costs: in Sydney, weekly rent ranges from A$200–$400; in Darwin, A$150–$300. For a detailed cost breakdown, refer to the Department of Home Affairs financial capacity requirements.
International students typically need an IELTS score of 5.0–5.5 overall (or equivalent) to meet English language requirements. Prior qualifications: completion of Australian Year 10 or equivalent is expected for Certificate III level. Australian Careers College may have specific academic and visa prerequisites – consult their website or admissions team. Foundation or pathway options are not listed for this course, but if you do not meet entry criteria, you may consider English language courses or bridging programs offered by other providers. Note that entry requirements are at the institution's discretion. For visa purposes, you must demonstrate genuine temporary entrant (GTE) status and financial capacity. Always check with the provider for the most up-to-date admissions policies.
This course has no mandatory work component. However, some early childhood courses may include practical placements – check with Australian Careers College if optional work experience is available. Even without a work component, students on a Student visa can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Work rights can help offset living costs and gain local experience. Remember that course fees and living expenses must be covered by your own funds – work should not be relied upon for financial support.
The course is delivered at two campuses: 37 Gregory St, PARAP, NT (Darwin area) and Level 3, 303 Pitt St, Sydney, NSW. Sydney is Australia's largest city with over 200,000 international students, excellent public transport, and a vibrant education sector. Darwin, the capital of the Northern Territory, has a smaller student population but offers a unique multicultural environment and lower living costs. Both campuses are accessible by public transport. Sydney's central location (Pitt St) is near Town Hall station; Parap is about 5 km from Darwin CBD. When choosing a location, consider climate, lifestyle, and proximity to support networks. The Northern Territory has fewer registered providers than NSW (over 200 in NSW vs. around 20 in NT), which may mean smaller class sizes.
International students enrolling in this course must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for this CRICOS course, genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, evidence of English proficiency (IELTS 5.0–5.5), Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and travel. Work rights: up to 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks. Student visa holders must maintain enrolment, attendance, and course progress. For family members, a Student Guardian visa (Subclass 590) is available for dependents. All conditions are subject to Department of Home Affairs policies – consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit homeaffairs.gov.au for personalised advice.
Follow these three steps to enrol in Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care at Australian Careers College:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy or the CRICOS register to find courses. Filter by level (Certificate III), field (Education), and location (NSW or NT). Verify that Australian Careers College (CRICOS 03029G) meets your needs. 2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Submit your application through Australian Careers College's website (www.accollege.edu.au). Provide academic transcripts, English test results (IELTS 5.0–5.5), and any required documents. Check application deadlines and entry requirements. 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** – Once accepted, you'll receive a CoE for course code 110496M. Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) via ImmiAccount. Include OSHC, GTE statement, and financial evidence. For visa assistance, consult a MARA agent.
Explore more early childhood courses on HeadStart Academy or contact Australian Careers College directly.
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Australian Careers 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.