Certificate III in Early Childhood Education

Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS 116427J)

Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 116427J) is a Certificate III delivered by Prospect Education Group Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03962C) over 1 year. This AQF Level 3 qualification falls under Teacher Education: Early Childhood (field 070101) and is designed to equip students with foundational skills for working in early childhood settings, such as daycare centres and preschools. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards for international students. With delivery locations in Melbourne's central business district, this course offers practical and theoretical training, including a work component. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026). HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource, with no referral fees. For visa and migration advice, consult a registered MARA agent.

All listed providers are CRICOS-registered with the Australian Government
Data sourced directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026)
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Course Overview

Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 116427J) is a Certificate III delivered by Prospect Education Group Pty Ltd over 1 year. Prospect Education Group (CRICOS 03962C) is a private provider located in Melbourne, Victoria. This course is registered at AQF Level 3, focusing on Teacher Education: Early Childhood (field 070101). Instruction is in English, and the course includes a work component of 4 weeks (160 hours). As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets the requirements for international student enrolment under the ESOS Act. HeadStart Academy sources all data from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), ensuring accuracy and trustworthiness.

What You'll Study

This course falls under the field of Teacher Education: Early Childhood (070101). At AQF Level 3, students typically gain foundational skills in child development, health and safety, inclusive practices, and educational program planning. The national VET code CHC30121 indicates core competencies such as supporting children's learning, fostering positive relationships, and working within legal and ethical frameworks. While specific syllabi vary by provider, graduates are prepared for roles in daycare centres, preschools, and community-based early childhood services.

Duration and Study Mode

The course is offered full-time over 52 weeks (1 year) as per the CRICOS register. Instruction is in English. It is a single qualification, not a dual or foundation program. Delivery locations are in Melbourne's CBD, providing access to extensive public transport networks, including trains, trams, and buses. Melbourne has over 200 CRICOS-registered providers and a large international student population, offering a vibrant study environment.

Fees (Indicative)

Tuition fees are A$9,500, with non-tuition fees of A$1,000, totalling an estimated A$10,500. These are sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026) and are indicative only. Additional costs include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), approximately AUD$400-500 per week for living expenses (rent, food, transport) in Melbourne, and the visa application charge. Always confirm current fees with Prospect Education Group Pty Ltd. See their website for updates. ESOS Act protections apply.

Entry Requirements

International students typically need an IELTS overall score of 5.0-5.5 (or equivalent). Applicants should have completed Australian Year 10 or equivalent prior qualifications. For specific requirements, including foundation or pathway options, contact the provider directly. English proficiency can also be demonstrated via TOEFL, PTE, or other approved tests. HeadStart Academy recommends checking with the institution for the most current entry criteria.

Work Component

Yes, this course includes a mandatory work component of 4 weeks at 40 hours per week (total 160 hours). This industry placement provides practical experience in early childhood settings, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world environments. It is a form of work-integrated learning common in VET qualifications, designed to enhance employability and meet professional recognition requirements.

Delivery Locations

The course is delivered at two locations in Melbourne, Victoria: Level 8, 118 Queens St, Melbourne VIC, and Swanston Institute, 364 Lonsdale St, Melbourne VIC 3000. Both are in the central business district, easily accessible via train, tram, and bus. Melbourne offers a diverse cultural scene and a strong demand for early childhood educators. Living costs are moderate, with weekly rent for shared accommodation averaging $300-$450.

Student Visa (Subclass 500)

International students need a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. Conditions include maintaining enrolment, satisfactory progress, and OSHC. Work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited during scheduled breaks. The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement assesses your intentions. Ensure you meet financial capacity requirements (tuition, living costs, OSHC). ESOS Act protections apply. For visa advice, consult a MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice.

How to Apply

Follow these three steps to enrol in Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care at Prospect Education Group Pty Ltd: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to compare courses by CRICOS code 116427J in Melbourne. Ensure the provider is registered (CRICOS 03962C). 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Prepare your academic documents, English test results, and meet entry requirements. Check application deadlines and submit via the provider's portal. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500). Once you have the CoE, lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Include OSHC and evidence of funds.

Is Melbourne Right for Your Early Childhood Education Studies?

Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city with a vibrant multicultural community and strong education sector. With over 200 CRICOS-registered providers, it offers diverse study options. The cost of living is higher than regional areas but lower than Sydney. Public transport is extensive, making campus access easy. For early childhood education, Melbourne has a growing demand for qualified educators. Consider your budget, accommodation preferences, and lifestyle. HeadStart Academy's state page for Victoria provides more insights.

Ready to start your journey? Contact Prospect Education Group Pty Ltd to apply for Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care.

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Source-backed course facts

Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Prospect Education Group Pty Ltd. Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.

CRICOS register extract

Course
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care
CRICOS course code
116427J
Provider
Prospect Education Group Pty Ltd (03962C)
Course level
Certificate III
Field of education
07 - Education
Duration
52 weeks
Tuition (indicative)
A$9,500
Estimated total (indicative)
A$10,500
Delivery locations
Melbourne
Work component
Yes (160 total hours)

This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.

Important notes for international students

  • Tuition and living-cost figures on this site are indicative only — confirm current fees with the provider before you accept an offer.
  • HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent and does not provide immigration advice. For Student visa (Subclass 500) rules, OSHC and financial capacity, verify with the Department of Home Affairs or a registered MARA agent.
  • Only CRICOS-registered providers may enrol overseas students. Always check the CRICOS course and provider codes on your offer and Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE).

Related pages

Frequently Asked Questions

The indicative total tuition fee is A$9,500, with non-tuition fees of A$1,000, totalling A$10,500. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026) and are subject to change. Additional expenses include OSHC, living costs (approx. AUD$400-500 per week in Melbourne), and visa fees. Always check with the provider for the most current fees.
The course duration is 52 weeks (1 year) of full-time study, as recorded on the CRICOS register. This includes a work component of 4 weeks (160 hours).
International students typically need an IELTS score of 5.0-5.5 overall (or equivalent) and completion of Australian Year 10 or equivalent. Specific prerequisites may apply; contact Prospect Education Group Pty Ltd for details. Foundation or pathway options may be available upon inquiry.
This course is delivered at two locations in Melbourne's CBD: Level 8, 118 Queens St, and Swanston Institute, 364 Lonsdale St. Both are centrally located with excellent public transport access.
CRICOS lists estimated total fees of A$10,500 for Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (tuition A$9,500). Figures are indicative as at the April 2026 register snapshot — confirm current fees with Prospect Education Group Pty Ltd before applying.
The CRICOS course code is 116427J, offered by Prospect Education Group Pty Ltd (provider code 03962C). Use these codes when checking your offer and CoE.