Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 113958F) is a Certificate III delivered by The Performance College Pty Ltd over 1 year. This qualification, with VET national code CHC30121, is designed for those seeking to work in early childhood education settings such as childcare centres, kindergartens, and preschools. As a CRICOS-registered course (Provider CRICOS 04180C), international students can study this program in the heart of Melbourne, Victoria. The course includes a work component of 4 weeks (160 hours) providing practical industry experience. HeadStart Academy is your free resource to explore this and over 26,000 other CRICOS courses across 1,500+ Australian providers.
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 113958F) is a Certificate III (AQF Level 3) delivered by The Performance College Pty Ltd over 1 year. The course falls under the field of education: Teacher Education, n.f.c. (070100). Graduates typically gain the skills to support children's learning and development, plan and implement activities, and work within legal and ethical frameworks. This is a single qualification (no dual or foundation study). The CRICOS register confirms the course duration at 52 weeks, with English as the language of instruction. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at 1 April 2026.
At Certificate III level, students learn the fundamentals of early childhood education, including child development, health and safety, and creating inclusive environments. The course emphasizes practical skills through a mandatory work component of 4 weeks (160 hours). While this page does not reproduce the provider’s syllabus, typical units cover supporting children's play and learning, providing care for babies and toddlers, and working effectively with families. This qualification is the entry point for many early childhood careers in Australia. For exact unit details, refer to The Performance College.
The course is 1 year (52 weeks) full-time. Language of instruction is English. It is a single qualification – not a dual or foundation program. The work component of 4 weeks (40 hours per week, ~160 total hours) is integrated into the duration. Students attend classes at the Melbourne campus (Level 5, 398 Lonsdale St, Melbourne VIC 3000). Melbourne is home to over 120 CRICOS-registered providers, with a vibrant student population and excellent public transport. The city offers diverse accommodation options, with indicative weekly costs of $350–$500 for rent, $100–$150 for groceries, and $40–$50 for transport.
Tuition: A$15,000. Non-tuition fees: A$250. Estimated total: A$15,250. These figures are indicative, sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026) and subject to change by the provider. Additional costs not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) – approximately $600–$800 per year for single cover; living expenses (at least $21,041 per year as per Department of Home Affairs); and the visa application charge ($1,600 as of April 2026). Always verify current fees directly with The Performance College. ESOS Act protections ensure your tuition fees are safeguarded.
For Certificate III level, applicants must have completed Australian Year 12 or equivalent. English proficiency: IELTS 5.0–5.5 overall (or equivalent) is typical. Foundation/pathway options may be available – check with the provider. International students must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement and demonstrate financial capacity. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting the provider for specific entry criteria. All listed providers are CRICOS-registered, ensuring quality standards.
Yes – 4 weeks, 40 hours per week (approximately 160 total hours). This work-integrated learning involves an industry placement or clinical placement in an early childhood setting. It allows students to apply classroom knowledge in real childcare centres, develop professional skills, and build networks. Placements are arranged by the provider and are a mandatory part of the course. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) can undertake this placement as part of their study program.
The course is delivered at: Melbourne Campus – Level 5, 398 Lonsdale St, Melbourne VIC 3000. Melbourne is the capital of Victoria, Australia’s second-largest city, with a population exceeding 5 million. It has the highest number of international students in Australia, with over 150,000 enrolled across its universities and VET providers. The campus is centrally located, accessible by train, tram, and bus. Victoria has over 300 CRICOS-registered providers offering thousands of courses.
International students need a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. Visa conditions include: maintain enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course; attend classes satisfactorily; hold valid OSHC; and abide by work restrictions (48 hours per fortnight while course is in session, unlimited during scheduled breaks). The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement must be met. Financial capacity: evidence of funds for tuition, living costs, and travel. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice – consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs. ESOS Act protections apply to all CRICOS students.
Follow these 3 steps: 1) Research CRICOS-registered providers – use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field, and city. Compare The Performance College with other providers offering Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care in Melbourne. 2) Apply directly to your chosen institution – meet entry requirements, submit English test scores, and adhere to application deadlines. The Performance College will assess your eligibility. 3) Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – include your CoE, OSHC evidence, and financial documents. Apply via the Department of Home Affairs. Remember: we’re a free resource – no referral fees.
Start your journey: explore Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care on HeadStart Academy. Compare providers, check CRICOS status, and apply with confidence.
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at The Performance College 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.