Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 116071K) is a Certificate III delivered by Sydney Metro College Pty Ltd over 1 year. This qualification prepares international students for a rewarding career in early childhood education, focusing on child development, health and safety, and fostering learning through play. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 03427D), it meets Australian quality standards and is eligible for student visa applications. Graduates can work as early childhood educators in childcare centres, preschools, or family day care settings. The course is nationally recognised under the CHC30121 training package, ensuring your skills are valued across Australia. Sydney Metro College operates campuses in New South Wales and Victoria, giving you flexibility in choosing your study location. Whether you're starting your career or upskilling, this Certificate III is your first step into a growing sector with strong demand for qualified professionals.
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The course covers core and elective units aligned with the CHC30121 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care. Key learning areas include child development, first aid, nutrition, and family partnerships. You'll also explore Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives and inclusive practices. By the end of the course, you'll be prepared to work as an early childhood educator, supporting children's learning and well-being in diverse environments.
The course is delivered over 52 weeks (1 year) as per the CRICOS register. Instruction is in English, and it is a single qualification (no dual qualification). The study mode is typically full-time, face-to-face with practical placements. Sydney Metro College may offer a mix of classroom learning and online resources, but the work component requires physical attendance at approved early childhood centres. As an international student, you must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with your student visa conditions.
Course fees are set by Sydney Metro College Pty Ltd and are indicative as at April 2026. Tuition is A$18,000, with non-tuition fees of A$1,000 (including enrolment and materials), estimated total A$19,000. These fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. For current fees, always check the provider's website at www.sydneymetrocollege.edu.au. HeadStart Academy is a free resource and does not receive commissions — data is sourced from the official CRICOS register.
International students typically need an IELTS overall score of 5.0-5.5 (or equivalent) for this certificate level. Prior qualifications expected include completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent. No foundation studies are offered for this course. Sydney Metro College may also require you to demonstrate suitability for working with children (e.g., a police check). For exact entry criteria, contact the provider directly.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 5 weeks, 32 hours per week (approximately 160 total hours). This is a work-integrated learning placement (industry placement) where you gain hands-on experience in an early childhood education setting. You'll assist educators, interact with children, and apply classroom theory in real-world environments. Placements are arranged by Sydney Metro College and are a critical part of meeting the CHC30121 competency requirements.
The course is delivered at three locations: Petersham Training Centre (49A New Canterbury Rd, Petersham NSW), SMC Melbourne Campus (Melbourne VIC), and Sydney Metro College Surry Hills (Lvl 2, 16-22 Wentworth Ave, Surry Hills NSW). Petersham and Surry Hills are in Sydney's inner suburbs with excellent public transport access. Melbourne campus is centrally located. Each city has a large international student population, with Sydney hosting over 1,500 CRICOS providers and Melbourne similarly vibrant. Living costs in these cities range from A$450–700 per week for rent, groceries, and transport (guide only).
To study this course, you need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criterion, enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, sufficient OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover), and financial capacity. Current student work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Always check the Department of Home Affairs for updates. ESOS Act protections apply to all CRICOS-registered providers, ensuring your rights as an international student.
Follow these steps to apply for Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care at Sydney Metro College Pty Ltd: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Certificate III), field (Education), and location (NSW or VIC). Compare providers, fees, and delivery locations. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit www.sydneymetrocollege.edu.au to check entry requirements (English test scores, academic documents) and submit your application. Deadlines vary—apply early. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, Sydney Metro College issues a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Include OSHC and financial evidence.
Ready to start your early childhood education journey? Explore more Certificate III courses on HeadStart Academy or contact Sydney Metro College directly.
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Sydney Metro 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.