Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 112312H) is a Certificate III delivered by NATIONAL POLYTECHNIC OF AUSTRALIA PTY LTD over 1 year. This qualification is AQF Level 3 and falls under the field of Teacher Education: Early Childhood. It provides foundational skills for those looking to work in early childhood education settings such as daycare centres and preschools. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 04096K), international students can study this program in Sydney (Haymarket) or Melbourne (South Melbourne). All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) — a free resource covering 26,433 courses across 1,556 registered providers. Remember, ESOS Act protections apply to every CRICOS-registered course.
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This course belongs to the field of 07 Education (0701 Teacher Education, specifically 070101 Teacher Education: Early Childhood). At Certificate III level, students learn core competencies for supporting children's development, health, and safety. Typical topics include fostering positive relationships, designing play-based learning activities, and understanding legal and ethical frameworks in early childhood. While the exact syllabus is set by NATIONAL POLYTECHNIC OF AUSTRALIA PTY LTD, graduates typically gain skills to work under supervision as early childhood educators. The VET national code for this qualification is CHC30121, aligning with national industry standards. This course does not lead to a dual qualification or foundation studies.
According to the CRICOS register, this course runs for 1 year (52 weeks). Instruction is in English. It is a single qualification with no mandatory work component. Study mode is expected to be full-time on campus. With delivery locations in both Sydney and Melbourne, you can choose a campus that suits your lifestyle. Remember, the CRICOS record confirms these details — always verify with the provider for any changes.
Tuition fees for Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care at National Polytechnic of Australia are A$14,000 (indicative, sourced from CRICOS register). Non-tuition fees are A$700, bringing the estimated total to A$14,700. These figures do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. Living costs in Australia are estimated at around A$2,000–$2,500 per month depending on your city (Sydney is typically higher than Melbourne). Always confirm current fees directly with the provider on their website. Tuition is set by institutions and subject to change.
For this Certificate III, you typically need an English proficiency of IELTS 5.0–5.5 overall (or equivalent). You must also have completed Australian Year 10 or equivalent. Prior qualifications in early childhood may be beneficial but are not always required. For specific entry criteria, including any foundation or pathway options, please refer to National Polytechnic of Australia directly. International students must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity.
This course has no work component according to the CRICOS register. That means it does not include a mandatory work placement. However, practical experience may be built into the curriculum at the provider's discretion — check with National Polytechnic of Australia for details. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks.
NATIONAL POLYTECHNIC OF AUSTRALIA PTY LTD offers this course at two locations: Quay Street in Haymarket, Sydney (NSW) and South Melbourne (VIC). Sydney and Melbourne are Australia's largest cities, with vibrant international student communities. Sydney has over 400 CRICOS-registered providers, while Melbourne hosts more than 300. Both cities offer excellent public transport, diverse cultural experiences, and ample part-time work opportunities. Living costs in Sydney average A$2,500/month; in Melbourne, around A$2,200/month. Each campus is well-connected by trains, trams, and buses, making commuting easy.
International students need a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. Key requirements include: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), English proficiency evidence, genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. OSHC is mandatory — costs vary but are typically A$500–$700 per year for single cover. Student visa holders can work 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during recognised breaks. Visa conditions also require maintaining enrolment, satisfactory course progress, and not breaching work limits. For accurate visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent.
Follow these three steps to enrol in Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care at NATIONAL POLYTECHNIC OF AUSTRALIA PTY LTD: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use the CRICOS register to confirm the provider (04096K) and course (112312H). You can also browse other Certificate III courses in Education on HeadStart Academy. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check entry requirements, English test scores, and application deadlines. Submit your application along with supporting documents (transcripts, passport, English test results). National Polytechnic of Australia will advise on any additional requirements. 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 lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Include OSHC evidence, GTE statement, and financial documents. Processing times vary.
Studying early childhood education is rewarding but requires patience and a genuine interest in child development. With Australia's growing demand for qualified educators, this Certificate III can lead to further study (Diploma or Bachelor) or immediate employment. Both Sydney and Melbourne have strong job markets in early childhood. Consider location carefully: Sydney offers a busier lifestyle; Melbourne is known for its culture and more affordable rent. Ensure you meet the English requirements and budget for living costs beyond tuition. All listed providers are CRICOS-registered — a mark of quality assured by the Australian Government. Remember, you are protected by the ESOS Act, which includes tuition protection and complaint processes.
Ready to start your early childhood education journey? Explore more Certificate III courses in Education on HeadStart Academy or check out the provider profile for National Polytechnic of Australia.
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Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at NATIONAL POLYTECHNIC OF AUSTRALIA 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.