Are you an international student looking to start a career in early childhood education in Australia? The Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 114221F) is a nationally recognised qualification that provides the foundational skills to work in children's services. Delivered by Australian College of Technology and Business Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03164M) at their Fortitude Valley campus in Queensland, this 1-year program combines theoretical learning with a mandatory work placement of 8 weeks (160 hours). As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian standards for international students and qualifies you for a Student visa (Subclass 500). In this page, HeadStart Academy breaks down everything you need to know: fees, entry requirements, location insights, and how to apply.
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Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 114221F) is a Certificate III delivered by Australian College of Technology and Business Pty Ltd over 1 year. This qualification sits at AQF Level 3 and is designed to prepare you for roles such as early childhood educator or assistant in long day care centres, preschools, and family day care. The course covers core competencies in child development, health and safety, fostering relationships with children and families, and planning play-based learning activities. CRICOS registration (03164M) ensures the course meets the quality standards required for international students under the ESOS Act.
The field of education for this course is 070101 - Teacher Education: Early Childhood. Students learn to support children's wellbeing, development, and learning through a range of experiences. Typical topics include: understanding legal and ethical frameworks, promoting physical and emotional safety, providing care for infants and toddlers, and building inclusive environments. While every provider tailors delivery, graduates of Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care are equipped to work under supervision in regulated children's services. The course also includes a work-integrated learning component to apply knowledge in real settings.
According to the CRICOS register, the Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care runs for 52 weeks (1 year). Instruction is in English, and the course is offered as a single qualification (no dual qualification or foundation studies). Classes are held at the provider's campus in Fortitude Valley, Brisbane. The study mode is typically face-to-face with some online components, but confirm with the provider for exact delivery.
Fees for this course are set by Australian College of Technology and Business Pty Ltd and are indicative only. Based on the CRICOS register (April 2026), the tuition fee is A$15,000, with non-tuition fees of A$2,000, giving an estimated total of A$17,000. Additional costs not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC – approximately A$500–A$700 per year for single cover), living expenses (see below), and the Student visa application charge (currently A$1,600). Always visit the provider's website (www.actb.com.au) for the most current fees and any scholarship opportunities.
International students need to demonstrate English proficiency, typically IELTS 5.0–5.5 overall (or equivalent). You should also have completed Year 10 or equivalent (Australian schooling) to meet the academic entry level for Certificate III. Some providers may require a police check or working with children check. If you don't meet the English requirement, pathway options like foundation courses or ELICOS may be available—check with the provider. HeadStart Academy recommends contacting the admissions team for individual assessment.
Yes, this course includes a mandatory work component: 8 weeks of work placement at 20 hours per week (approximately 160 total hours). This is an industry placement where you gain hands-on experience in a licensed early childhood setting, under the guidance of qualified educators. The placement helps you apply classroom learning to real interactions with children, families, and staff. It also satisfies the practical requirements for the qualification and is a great way to build local work references.
The course is delivered at 100 Brunswick Street, Fortitude Valley QLD. Fortitude Valley is a vibrant inner-city suburb of Brisbane, known for its entertainment precinct and easy access via public transport (buses, trains, ferries). Brisbane has over 200,000 students across multiple universities and colleges, and the cost of living is moderate: indicative weekly rent for a share house is around A$200–A$300, groceries A$70–A$100, and a transport pass about A$50 per week. Fortitude Valley itself is home to several CRICOS-registered providers, making it a convenient hub for international students.
To study this course on a Student visa (Subclass 500), you must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, maintain OSHC for your stay, and demonstrate financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. While studying, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). After completing this Certificate III, you may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa if you pursue further study or skills assessment. HeadStart Academy reminds you that visa outcomes depend on your individual circumstances—always consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered MARA agent.
Fortitude Valley offers a dynamic study environment with a high concentration of early childhood services for placement opportunities. Brisbane's lower cost of living compared to Sydney or Melbourne is a plus, and the climate is subtropical. However, consider your preference for urban vs. quiet settings. The campus is near public transport, so commuting from suburbs like Kelvin Grove or South Brisbane is easy. For early childhood education students, the proximity to childcare centres in the Brisbane area enhances networking and job prospects after graduation.
Ready to start your early childhood education career? Browse CRICOS-registered providers offering Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care on HeadStart Academy today.
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Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Australian College of Technology and Business 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.