Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 117104J) is a Certificate III delivered by Vocational Augment Pty Ltd over 1 year. This nationally recognised qualification (AQF level 3) provides the foundational skills to work in early childhood education settings, including childcare centres, kindergartens, and preschools. You’ll learn how to support children’s development, plan educational programs, and maintain safe environments. With a strong focus on practical experience, this course includes a mandatory work placement to prepare you for the workforce. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards for international students.
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 117104J) is a Certificate III delivered by Vocational Augment Pty Ltd over 1 year. This qualification is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS), ensuring it meets national quality standards for international students. Vocational Augment Pty Ltd (CRICOS 04305F) is a private provider based in Victoria. The course is classified under the field of Education (07), specifically Teacher Education: Early Childhood (070101). It corresponds to the VET national code CHC30121 and is offered at AQF Level 3. With an estimated total cost of A$27,800, this course prepares graduates for roles such as early childhood educator or assistant. All CRICOS-registered courses are protected under the ESOS Act, giving international students legal safeguards.
This course falls under the field of Education – Teacher Education: Early Childhood. Students gain theoretical and practical knowledge in areas such as child development, fostering creativity, promoting health and safety, and working with families and communities. Graduates develop competencies to implement approved learning frameworks and respond to children’s individual needs. While specific syllabus varies by provider, typical units include supporting children’s play and learning, ensuring children's health and safety, and developing positive relationships. The course emphasises practical skills through workplace-based learning, aligning with Australian early childhood education standards. Upon completion, graduates are eligible to apply for further study or entry-level positions in the sector.
The course duration is 1 year (52 weeks) on a full-time basis. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification, not offered as a dual award or foundation studies program. Students are expected to attend classes and engage in self-directed study. The provider may offer flexible delivery modes; confirm directly with Vocational Augment Pty Ltd.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$25,000. Non-tuition fees, including materials, resources, and student services, are estimated at A$2,800. The estimated total cost is A$27,800. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Additional expenses not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs (accommodation, food, transport), and the student visa application charge. For current fees, always visit the provider's official website: http://www.vat.vic.edu.au/. Always confirm all costs directly with Vocational Augment Pty Ltd before enrolling.
Entry requirements are set by Vocational Augment Pty Ltd. Typical expectations include completion of Year 12 or equivalent overseas qualification. English language proficiency: IELTS overall band score of 5.0 to 5.5 (or equivalent such as TOEFL, PTE). Some providers may require a higher score for certain components. If you do not meet direct entry, pathways such as foundation or ELICOS programs may be available. Contact the provider for specific prerequisites and assessment of previous qualifications.
This course includes a mandatory work component: 8 weeks of industry placement, totalling approximately 160 hours (exact weekly hours not specified). Work-integrated learning involves supervised practical experience in an early childhood education setting, such as a childcare centre or preschool. This placement allows you to apply classroom theory in a real workplace under professional supervision, develop practical skills, and build industry connections. It is a key part of the qualification and must be completed to graduate.
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care is delivered at two locations in Victoria: - 395-397 Victoria St, ABBOTSFORD VIC 3067 (Abbotsford campus) - Flinders Street Campus – Level 11, 474 Flinders St, MELBOURNE VIC 3000 (Melbourne CBD) Both are in the greater Melbourne area, a vibrant international student destination with over 150,000 international students from more than 150 countries. Melbourne offers excellent public transport, diverse communities, and a strong early childhood education sector. Indicative weekly living costs: rent A$250–A$400, groceries A$80–A$150, transport A$30–A$50. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers nationwide, Melbourne offers many study options.
International students need a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course in Australia. You must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, demonstrate financial capacity, and hold Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. Student work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during academic sessions and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). All CRICOS-registered courses are protected under the ESOS Act. For visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs.
Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city and a top study destination with a multicultural population and high quality of life. It is home to numerous CRICOS-registered providers offering early childhood courses. The city has a strong demand for qualified early childhood educators, with government initiatives supporting the sector. Students benefit from excellent public transport, affordable living options (compared to Sydney), and a thriving arts and food scene. Consider your personal preferences for campus location, lifestyle, and career opportunities when deciding. HeadStart Academy helps you compare providers across all states.
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Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Vocational Augment 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.