Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 111444D) is a Certificate III delivered by Iascend Polytechnic Pty Ltd over 1 year. This nationally recognised VET qualification (CHC30121) equips students with foundational skills to work in early childhood education settings, such as long day care centres, preschools, and family day care. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider CRICOS 02961A), it meets Australian Government standards for international students. HeadStart Academy sources all course data from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), ensuring accuracy and reliability. This program includes a work placement component, giving students hands-on experience in Australian early childhood environments. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, Australia is a top destination for early childhood education studies. Whether you're looking to start a career in childcare or further your qualifications, this Certificate III is your first step. Explore course fees, entry requirements, and delivery locations below.
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS 111444D) is an AQF Level 3 qualification in the field of Teacher Education: Early Childhood (070101). It is delivered by Iascend Polytechnic Pty Ltd, a private CRICOS-registered provider (CRICOS 02961A) with a campus presence in Victoria. The course is designed to prepare students for entry-level roles in early childhood services, focusing on child development, safety, and program implementation. All data on HeadStart Academy is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at 1 April 2026, ensuring you receive accurate and up-to-date information. For the latest course details, visit the provider's website at www.mcfe.com.au.
The course covers foundational concepts in early childhood education, including child development from birth to five years, fostering learning through play, maintaining safe and healthy environments, and supporting children's wellbeing. Students learn to communicate effectively with families and colleagues, plan age-appropriate activities, and comply with regulatory frameworks. This qualification reflects the role of educators who work under direct supervision in a range of early childhood settings. Practical skills are developed through supervised work placement, reinforcing theoretical knowledge.
The course duration is 1 year (52 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. Instruction is delivered in English. This is a single qualification (no dual qualification) and does not include foundation studies. Students are expected to attend classes and complete work placement during the program. Full-time study is required to meet visa conditions for international students.
Tuition fees are indicative at A$9,500, with non-tuition fees of A$100, giving an estimated total of A$9,600. Please note that this does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. International students should budget for living expenses in Victoria: indicative weekly costs include rent A$200–350, groceries A$80–150, and transport A$30–50. Fees are set by Iascend Polytechnic Pty Ltd and subject to change – always confirm current fees directly with the provider at www.mcfe.com.au.
General English language requirement is IELTS 5.0–5.5 overall (or equivalent). Applicants are typically expected to have completed Year 12 or equivalent qualification. Some providers may require a police check or working with children clearance. Foundation or pathway options may be available if you do not meet direct entry requirements – check with Iascend Polytechnic. Meeting entry requirements does not guarantee visa approval; refer to Department of Home Affairs for student visa conditions.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 40 weeks, with 7.5 hours per week (approximately 300 total hours). This industry placement provides hands-on experience in regulated early childhood settings, allowing students to apply classroom learning in real environments. Placement is supervised by qualified educators and is an integral part of the CHC30121 qualification. It helps students build professional networks and gain confidence in the workplace.
The course is delivered at two locations in Victoria: Alpine View CC in Bright (a scenic town in the High Country) and Spencer St - Unit 39, 617-643 Spencer Street in West Melbourne (near Melbourne’s CBD). Bright offers a quiet rural lifestyle with outdoor activities, while West Melbourne provides easy access to city amenities and public transport. Victoria is home to numerous CRICOS-registered early childhood providers, offering a strong job market and student community. Bright is approximately 3 hours from Melbourne by car; West Melbourne is well-connected by tram and train.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. Conditions include full-time enrolment, maintaining Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement. Work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Financial capacity must be demonstrated as part of the visa application. The ESOS Act provides legal protections for international students studying with CRICOS-registered providers. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice – consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs.
Follow these three steps to apply for Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care at Iascend Polytechnic Pty Ltd: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Certificate III), field (Early Childhood Education), and location (Victoria) to compare options. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution – check entry requirements (English test, academic qualifications) and submit your application to Iascend Polytechnic before the deadline. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – once you have your CoE, lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you meet GTE, OSHC, and financial requirements. Ready to start? Explore more on HeadStart Academy.
Victoria has a thriving early childhood education sector, with many CRICOS-registered providers and job opportunities across metropolitan and regional areas. Melbourne is consistently ranked as one of the world’s most liveable cities, with a diverse student population and excellent public transport. Bright offers a unique opportunity to study in a regional setting with a strong community focus. Living costs in Victoria are moderate compared to other Australian states, with weekly rent averaging A$200–350 in shared accommodation. The state government invests heavily in early childhood services, making it a great place to start your career.
Start your journey today with HeadStart Academy. Browse more early childhood courses or connect with Iascend Polytechnic directly.
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Iascend Polytechnic 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.