Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 110936C) is a Certificate III delivered by Department of Training and Workforce Development over 1 year. This qualification equips you with the skills to work in early childhood education settings, supporting children's learning and development. Delivered across multiple campuses in Western Australia, this course includes a substantial work placement component, giving you hands-on experience. As a CRICOS-registered provider (00020G), Department of Training and Workforce Development meets Australian Government standards for international students. All data on this page is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026, and courses are protected under the ESOS Act.
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Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 110936C) is a Certificate III (AQF Level 3) delivered by Department of Training and Workforce Development (CRICOS 00020G, Government). Field of education: 07 - Education → 0701 - Teacher Education → 070101 - Teacher Education: Early Childhood. The course has a VET national code of CHC30121. It is a single qualification (not dual), and does not involve foundation studies. Language of instruction is English. Work component: Yes — 25 weeks, 19 hrs/week (~475 total hours). This course is designed for international students seeking a career in early childhood education, with a strong emphasis on practical skills and industry placement. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets the requirements for a student visa (Subclass 500).
The field of teacher education: early childhood focuses on the knowledge and skills needed to support children from birth to school age. At Certificate III level, students typically learn about child development, creating safe and supportive environments, fostering positive relationships, and planning educational activities. The curriculum covers legal and ethical responsibilities, health and safety protocols, and cultural competence. While specific units are set by the provider, this qualification prepares graduates to work as early childhood educators in long day care, preschool, and family day care settings. The work placement component ensures you can apply theory in real early childhood services, a key requirement for this field.
Duration: 1 year (52 weeks on the CRICOS register). Language of instruction: English. This is a single qualification (not a dual award or foundation studies). The course is delivered face-to-face at multiple campuses across Western Australia. Full-time study is required to maintain student visa conditions. Given the nature of early childhood education, attendance and participation in practical sessions are essential. The CRICOS register confirms the duration and mode as structured for international students.
Tuition: A$13,752 Non-tuition fees: A$977 Estimated total: A$14,729
These are indicative fees sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Fees are set by Department of Training and Workforce Development and subject to change. Always confirm current fees on the provider’s website: http://www.tafeinternational.wa.edu.au/. Additional costs not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (rent, food, transport), and the student visa application charge. For 2025, OSHC for a single student is approximately A$600–700 per year. Living costs in Western Australia vary by city — for example, shared accommodation in Perth ranges from A$250–$400 per week, while regional centres like Kalgoorlie or Geraldton may be more affordable. Budget accordingly.
English language requirement: IELTS 5.0–5.5 overall (or equivalent). Prior qualifications: Certificate III typically expects completion of Year 12 or equivalent. Some providers may also require a police check or working with children clearance due to the nature of early childhood work. Foundation or pathway options: If you do not meet the English or academic prerequisites, you may need to enrol in a pathway program. Contact Department of Training and Workforce Development for specific entry requirements and alternative English tests accepted (e.g., TOEFL, PTE). Note: Entry requirements are set by the institution — consult the provider for the most up-to-date criteria.
This course includes a mandatory work component: 25 weeks, 19 hours per week (approximately 475 total hours). This is classified as industry placement, where you will work in an early childhood education setting such as a childcare centre or preschool. The placement allows you to apply classroom learning in a real environment, develop professional skills, and gain valuable Australian workplace experience. International students must have a valid student visa with work rights to undertake the placement. The work component is integral to meeting the qualification requirements and is supervised by the provider.
This course is delivered at the following Department of Training and Workforce Development campuses: - Central Regional TAFE - Kalgoorlie Campus — KALGOORLIE, WA - Central Regional TAFE, Geraldton Campus — Geraldton, WA - Central Regional TAFE, Northam Campus — Northam, WA - North Metropolitan TAFE, Leederville Campus — Leederville, WA - North Regional TAFE, Broome Campus — Broome, WA - South Metropolitan TAFE, Murdoch Campus — Murdoch, WA
Western Australia is home to over 100 CRICOS-registered providers offering a wide range of courses. Perth, the capital, has a large international student population and excellent public transport. Regional campuses offer a more affordable cost of living. For example, living costs in Kalgoorlie or Geraldton are generally lower than Perth. Each campus has facilities for early childhood education training.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. Key requirements: Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, sufficient financial capacity (tuition fees, living costs, OSHC), and English proficiency. Student work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). You will also need Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. The course is CRICOS-registered, so you can receive a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) to support your visa application. Always check the Department of Home Affairs website for current visa requirements. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent — consult a MARA agent for advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care at Department of Training and Workforce Development:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to explore courses and providers. Filter by course level (Certificate III), field (Education), and location (WA). Department of Training and Workforce Development is a CRICOS-registered provider (00020G).
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit the provider’s website (http://www.tafeinternational.wa.edu.au/) to review entry requirements, English language test scores, application deadlines, and documentation needed. Submit your application online.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, the provider will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for your student visa via the Department of Home Affairs. Provide evidence of finances, OSHC, and GTE. If you need help, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit homeaffairs.gov.au.
Western Australia offers a unique study experience with a mix of vibrant urban life and stunning natural landscapes. Perth, the state capital, is home to over 50,000 international students and has a strong job market, especially in trades and health. Regional campuses like Kalgoorlie, Geraldton, and Broome provide a more intimate setting and lower living costs. For early childhood education, demand for qualified educators is high across the state. Consider your preferences for campus location, climate, and lifestyle. HeadStart Academy has data on 26,433 courses across Australia — use our filters to compare options.
Start your early childhood education journey in Australia — use HeadStart Academy to compare courses and apply today.
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Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Department of Training and Workforce Development. 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.