Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS 114723F)

Course Overview and What You'll Study

The Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS 114723F) sits at AQF Level 3 and belongs to the field of Education, specifically Teacher Education: Early Childhood (070101). This level of study introduces foundational concepts in child development, health and safety, and educational program design. Students explore how to create nurturing environments for children from birth to 5 years, support inclusive practices, and collaborate with families and communities. Typical learning outcomes include understanding regulatory frameworks like the National Quality Framework (NQF), implementing approved learning frameworks such as the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF), and developing skills in observation, documentation, and reflection. While the specific syllabus is set by Australian Scholar's College Pty Ltd, graduates can expect to be prepared for roles such as early childhood educator, assistant educator, or family day care educator. The course emphasises practical skills — through simulated environments and actual work placements — so that students are job-ready upon graduation. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses across Australia, this particular certificate is one of many pathways into the education sector. Melbourne alone hosts dozens of providers offering early childhood courses, giving students plenty of choice. However, what sets this course apart is its integrated work component and central location in Melbourne's education hub.

Duration, Study Mode and Work Component

This Certificate III course runs for 1 year (52 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English, and the course is a single qualification with no dual or foundation studies attached. A notable feature is the mandatory work component: 8 weeks at 20 hours per week, totalling approximately 160 hours. This work-integrated learning takes the form of an industry placement in an approved early childhood education and care setting, such as a childcare centre or preschool. It is an assessed part of the course, providing real-world experience under the supervision of qualified educators. For international students, this placement counts towards the formal hours required for graduation and is a valuable opportunity to build Australian workplace references. The work component is separate from any employment or visa work rights. The course is delivered full-time on campus at the provider's location. Students should expect a combination of classroom study, practical workshops, and supervised placement. Given the hands-on nature of early childhood education, attendance and participation are essential. The 52-week duration allows sufficient time to cover all core units and elective units required for the qualification, with the work placement typically scheduled in the latter part of the course.

Indicative Fees and Additional Costs

The indicative tuition fee for Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care at Australian Scholar's College Pty Ltd is A$15,000, according to the CRICOS register. Non-tuition fees (such as application fees, materials, or administration) total A$1,000, bringing the estimated total to A$16,000. Please note: these fees are indicative only and are set by the provider. They may change without notice, so always confirm current charges directly with Australian Scholar's College before applying. The fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory for student visa holders. OSHC costs vary by provider and policy length, typically around A$500–A$700 per year for single cover. Additionally, you will need to budget for living expenses. In Melbourne, the cost of living for a single student is approximately A$25,000–A$30,000 per year, covering rent (A$200–A$400 per week for shared accommodation), groceries (A$80–A$120 per week), and public transport (concession rates available). The Australian Government requires you to demonstrate financial capacity to cover tuition, travel, and living costs for yourself and any dependants. The Visa Subclass 500 application charge is an extra cost (currently A$1,600 for the main applicant). For a full breakdown of fees, visit the provider's website or consult the CRICOS register. HeadStart Academy does not charge any referral or commission fees; this information is provided free of charge as a public resource.

Entry Requirements and English Proficiency

Entry requirements for this Certificate III course typically include completion of Australian Year 10 or equivalent, and an English language proficiency of IELTS 5.0–5.5 overall (or equivalent such as TOEFL iBT 35–46, PTE Academic 36–42, or Cambridge English 154–162). These are general guidelines; specific requirements are set by Australian Scholar's College Pty Ltd and may vary. Some providers may also require a Working with Children Check or a pre-course interview. If you do not meet the stated English level, pathway options such as an English Language Intensive Course for Overseas Students (ELICOS) may be available. Always check with the institution for the most up-to-date criteria. The course is at AQF Level 3, which is a Certificate III level, so it is suitable for students starting from a foundation of secondary education. No formal early childhood background is required, but a genuine interest in working with children is beneficial. Note that CRICOS-registered providers must adhere to the ESOS Act, ensuring transparent and fair entry processes. To proceed with your application, you will need to provide certified copies of your academic transcripts, English test results, and identity documents. If your qualifications are from outside Australia, they may need to be assessed for equivalency. Always consult the provider's admissions team for guidance specific to your situation.

Delivery Locations and Studying in Melbourne

This course is delivered at Level 10, 474 Flinders St, Melbourne VIC 3000 — a prime location in Melbourne's central business district. Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city and a leading education destination, home to over 200,000 international students from 170 countries. The city boasts a vibrant culture, excellent public transport, and a strong demand for qualified early childhood educators. With over 50 CRICOS-registered providers offering education courses in Melbourne, students have access to a rich learning environment. The campus is steps from Flinders Street Station, making it easily accessible by train, tram, and bus. Living in Melbourne, you can expect a moderate climate, diverse cuisine, and numerous parks and recreational areas. Weekly rent for a room in a shared apartment averages A$250–A$350, while studio apartments start at A$400. Groceries cost around A$60–A$100 per week, and a monthly myki public transport pass is about A$120 (concession). Studying in Melbourne also means you can network with early childhood professionals, attend industry events, and potentially find work in one of the many childcare centres in the metropolitan area. Before choosing Melbourne, consider factors like climate (cool winters, variable weather), accommodation availability, and your personal preferences for a big-city lifestyle. HeadStart Academy provides detailed guides on studying in Victoria and Melbourne to help you make an informed decision.

Student Visa Information and ESOS Protections

International students enrolling in this Certificate III course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to study full-time in a CRICOS-registered course, work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term (and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks), and bring eligible family members. To apply, you must have a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Australian Scholar's College Pty Ltd, meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, have sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and hold valid health insurance (OSHC). The application fee is A$1,600 (as of 2026). You must also satisfy health and character requirements. It is important to note that HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent and does not provide immigration advice. For visa assistance, consult a registered MARA agent or visit the Department of Home Affairs website. As a CRICOS-registered course, you are protected by the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act. This means you have rights to quality education, refunds if the course is not provided, and access to support services. The ESOS framework also ensures that providers adhere to the National Code of Practice for Providers of Education and Training to Overseas Students. Your CoE is a critical document — do not lose it. For more details on the student visa process, see our dedicated guide.

Is Melbourne the Right City for Your Early Childhood Education Studies?

Melbourne is consistently ranked as one of the world's most liveable cities, and its early childhood education sector is thriving. The Victorian government has invested heavily in early childhood services, creating job opportunities for qualified educators. As an international student, you will benefit from Melbourne's multicultural environment, excellent public transport, and a wide range of accommodation options within easy reach of the CBD campus. The city is home to a large student population, so you'll find plenty of peer support and student events. However, living costs in Melbourne are higher than in smaller Australian cities like Adelaide or Hobart. Typical weekly expenses (rent, food, transport) total around A$400–A$600. If you prefer a quieter lifestyle, regional Victoria options might be more suitable. Melbourne's weather can be unpredictable — hot summers and cool winters — but indoor activities abound. Before committing, consider your budget, climate preferences, and career goals. The early childhood sector in Melbourne offers diverse roles in long day care, family day care, and kindergarten settings. HeadStart Academy provides free resources comparing study destinations to help you choose. Remember, over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers exist across Australia, so explore options in other states too.

Ready to start your early childhood career? Visit Australian Scholar's College Pty Ltd's website to apply, or explore more Certificate III courses in Victoria on HeadStart Academy. Our free, CRICOS-sourced database helps you compare providers and courses across Australia.

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