Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 110714F) is a Certificate III delivered by Holmesglen Institute over 41 weeks (~9 months). This nationally recognised qualification (CHC30121) prepares you to work in early childhood education settings, supporting children’s development and learning. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 00012G), it meets Australian standards for international students, with ESOS Act protections in place. Holmesglen Institute is a government-owned TAFE in Victoria, offering campuses in Moorabbin and Glen Waverley. Whether you're aiming to become an early childhood educator or a nanny, this course gives you the skills to plan and implement educational programs for children from birth to age five. With a work component of 180 hours in a regulated early childhood service, you'll gain real-world experience. Tuition is A$13,440, and the course is taught in English. Holmesglen Institute, established in 1982, is one of Victoria's leading TAFEs, with modern facilities and strong industry links.
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 110714F) is a Certificate III delivered by Holmesglen Institute over 41 weeks (~9 months). This qualification is at AQF Level 3 and falls under the field of Teacher Education: Early Childhood (070101). It is a nationally recognised VET course (CHC30121) that provides a pathway to employment or further study, such as a Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care. As a CRICOS-registered course, it assures quality and compliance with Australian education standards. Holmesglen Institute, CRICOS provider 00012G, is a government-owned institution with a strong reputation for vocational training. This course is ideal for international students who want to gain practical skills in a supportive learning environment.
The course covers key areas such as childhood development, health and safety, fostering creativity, and working in partnership with families. Graduates gain competencies required to work in long day care, family day care, or preschool settings. The curriculum includes units on supporting children's play and learning, meeting legal and ethical obligations, and promoting cultural competence. Note: This is a general description; the specific curriculum is set by Holmesglen Institute and may vary. Students should request a detailed course outline from the provider. The field of education (07 Education) focuses on preparing educators who can contribute to early childhood development in diverse settings.
41 weeks (41 weeks on the CRICOS register). Language of instruction: English. This is a single qualification (no dual or foundation studies). Students attend classes at the campus with a combination of theory and practical learning. The course is full-time, typically involving 20-25 contact hours per week plus independent study. Study mode is on-campus at either the Moorabbin or Waverley campus. This duration is indicative as per the CRICOS register; actual completion time may vary based on individual progress.
Tuition: A$13,440; Non-tuition fees: A$415; Estimated total: A$13,855. Note: These fees are indicative, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026, and set by Holmesglen Institute. Always check the provider's website for current fees. The total does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. International students should budget additional A$500-A$600 per week for living expenses in Melbourne (indicative). OSHC costs approximately A$600-A$700 per year for single cover. Please visit the Holmesglen Institute website for the most up-to-date fee schedule.
IELTS 5.0-5.5 overall (or equivalent) is typically required. Applicants should have completed Australian Year 10 or equivalent. Some providers may have additional prerequisites, such as a Working with Children Check or prior study in a related field. Foundation or pathway options may be available for students who do not meet the academic criteria; contact Holmesglen Institute for details. Note that these are general guidelines; each institution sets its own specific entry requirements. Always confirm with the provider before applying.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 12 weeks at 15 hours per week, totalling approximately 180 hours. This is an industry placement in a regulated early childhood education and care service, providing hands-on experience under supervision. It is a key part of the qualification and may be assessed as part of the course. The placement allows students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings, building confidence and professional skills. Holmesglen Institute helps arrange placements, but students may need to satisfy placement requirements such as immunisations or background checks.
Holmesglen Institute delivers this course at two campuses: Moorabbin Campus in Moorabbin, and Waverley Campus in Glen Waverley. Both are in Melbourne's eastern suburbs. Moorabbin is approximately 16 km from Melbourne CBD, with easy access via train. Glen Waverley is about 20 km from the city, well-connected by public transport. Victoria has over 100 CRICOS-registered providers offering a wide range of courses. The state is home to a large international student community, with Melbourne consistently ranked as a top student city. Living costs in Melbourne are estimated at around A$500–A$600 per week for rent, food, and transport (indicative only). Each campus offers modern learning facilities, including simulated early childhood environments.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. Visa conditions include: maintain enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, attend at least 80% of contact hours, achieve satisfactory course progress, and hold Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. Work rights allow up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. You must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement. For visa application details, consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent (MARA). HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent and does not provide immigration advice.
Victoria is home to over 150,000 international students, with Melbourne being a leading study destination. The state has a high demand for early childhood educators due to growing population and policy initiatives. Studying at Holmesglen Institute gives you access to strong industry connections and modern facilities. However, consider the cost of living, which can be higher than other Australian cities. Public transport is excellent, and part-time work opportunities are available in the childcare sector. Always check your visa work conditions. Victoria's climate is temperate, with four distinct seasons. The state also offers a vibrant cultural scene and diverse communities, making it an attractive place to live and study.
Applying to study Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care at Holmesglen Institute is straightforward. Follow these three steps: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field, and city. Ensure the provider and course are CRICOS-registered. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit Holmesglen Institute's website, check entry requirements, prepare English test results, and submit your application by the deadline. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, you'll get a CoE. Use it to apply for your visa, ensuring you have OSHC and sufficient funds.
Ready to start your early childhood education journey? Apply directly to Holmesglen Institute or contact their international admissions team for more information.
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Holmesglen Institute. 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.