Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 111821F) is a Certificate III delivered by Lambda Education Pty Ltd over 1 year 1 month (~56 weeks). This course is designed for international students who want to start a career in early childhood education, covering the foundational skills needed to support children's development and learning. Lambda Education is a CRICOS-registered private provider (CRICOS 03764J), ensuring the course meets Australian Government quality standards for international students. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses across Australia, this VET qualification (CHC30121) provides a pathway to further study or employment. HeadStart Academy sources all course data from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), making it a free and trustworthy resource for prospective students. Whether you're planning to study in NSW or elsewhere, this page gives you the key details to make an informed decision.
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 111821F) is a Certificate III (AQF Level 3) offered by Lambda Education Pty Ltd. The course has a duration of 1 year 1 month (~56 weeks) and is taught entirely in English. It falls under the field of education: Teacher Education, n.e.c. (070199). This is a single qualification only — no dual or foundation studies are included. The course includes a mandatory work component of 8 weeks at 20 hours per week (approximately 160 total hours), providing practical placement in an early childhood setting. Tuition fees are indicative at A$18,000, with non-tuition fees of A$2,500, totalling approximately A$20,500. Note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and visa application charges are not included. Lambda Education Pty Ltd operates in multiple locations across New South Wales, including Gosford, Liverpool, Parramatta, and St Leonards. All data is sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026.
This Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (VET national code CHC30121) covers the essential knowledge and skills required to work in early childhood education settings. Students learn about child development, creating safe and supportive environments, fostering positive relationships, and supporting children's learning through play-based activities. The course also includes topics on cultural competence, inclusion, and working collaboratively with families and communities. As a Certificate III (AQF Level 3), it provides a foundation for further study in early childhood education, such as a Diploma or higher-level qualifications. While the CRICOS register does not specify a detailed syllabus, graduates typically gain competencies aligned with national industry standards. This qualification is recognized across Australia and is a common entry point for careers as early childhood educators or assistants in long day care, preschool, and family day care settings.
The course runs for 1 year 1 month (~56 weeks) according to the CRICOS register. All instruction is in English. It is a single qualification (no dual award or foundation studies). The study mode is typically full-time, with classes held at the provider's campuses. International students should note that student visa (Subclass 500) holders are generally required to maintain full-time enrolment and attend at least 80% of contact hours per term. The course is structured to include both theoretical and practical components, with the work placement forming an integral part of the learning outcomes. Lambda Education may offer flexible study options, but you should confirm directly with the provider for the latest schedule.
Tuition fees for this course are A$18,000, with non-tuition fees of A$2,500, bringing the estimated total to A$20,500. These fees are indicative, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026, and are set by Lambda Education Pty Ltd. They are subject to change, so always confirm current fees with the provider. Not included in these fees are: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory for student visa holders and costs approximately A$500–700 per year; weekly living costs (e.g., rent in NSW ranges from A$200–400 per week for shared accommodation, groceries A$60–100, transport A$30–60); and the visa application charge (currently A$1,600 for Subclass 500). HeadStart Academy strongly advises that you budget for all these additional expenses when planning your studies. For the most accurate and up-to-date fee information, visit Lambda Education's official website.
International students applying for this Certificate III must meet English language proficiency requirements, typically an IELTS score of 5.0–5.5 overall (or equivalent). Academic requirements generally include the completion of Australian Year 10 or equivalent. No prior qualification in early childhood education is required, but some providers may assess suitability through an interview or language test. Foundation or pathway options may be available if you do not meet the direct entry requirements — contact Lambda Education for specific arrangements. Note that the provider may have additional requirements such as a Working with Children Check (or equivalent in your home country) due to the work placement with children. These are general guidelines only; you must verify the exact entry criteria with Lambda Education before applying.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 8 weeks, with students expected to complete 20 hours per week (totalling approximately 160 hours). This work-integrated learning is typically undertaken as an industry placement in an early childhood education setting, such as a childcare centre or preschool. The placement provides real-world experience under supervision, allowing you to apply theoretical knowledge in a practical environment. It is a requirement for the qualification and must be successfully completed to graduate. International students should ensure their student visa allows for work placements that are a compulsory part of their course — generally, this is permitted and does not count towards the usual work hour limits. Confirm placement arrangements with Lambda Education.
Lambda Education Pty Ltd delivers this course at four locations in New South Wales: ISMT - Gosford in GOSFORD, ISMT - Liverpool at 269 Bigge St LIVERPOOL NSW 2170, ISMT - Parramatta in NSW (Parramatta), and Level 1 575-597 Pacific Hwy ST LEONARDS NSW 2065 Australia (St Leonards, a suburb of Sydney). Each campus offers access to local amenities, public transport, and a diverse student community. Gosford is on the Central Coast, about 80 km north of Sydney, with lower living costs than the city centre. Liverpool and Parramatta are major urban centres in Western Sydney with good transport links. St Leonards is on the lower North Shore of Sydney, close to the city. According to CRICOS data, there are hundreds of registered providers across NSW, offering international students plenty of choices. When selecting a location, consider proximity to accommodation, part-time work opportunities, and lifestyle preferences.
International students studying this course on a full-time basis will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (conditions apply). You must maintain genuine temporary entrant (GTE) status, meet financial capacity requirements (tuition, living costs, OSHC, and travel), and hold Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. The course duration of 56 weeks means your visa will likely be granted for the course length plus additional time for travel. All CRICOS-registered courses satisfy the visa requirement for enrolled study. For personalized advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs.
Applying for Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care at Lambda Education Pty Ltd involves three simple steps: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers — use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and city. Confirm that Lambda Education (CRICOS 03764J) is the right choice for you. 2. Apply directly to the institution — check the entry requirements, submit your academic transcripts, English test scores (e.g., IELTS), and any other documents. Note application deadlines and any non-tuition fees. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) — once accepted, you'll get a CoE, which you need for the visa application. Lodge your visa online via ImmiAccount. HeadStart Academy is a free resource to help you compare options.
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Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Lambda Education 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.