Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care

Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (117992E)

Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 117992E) is a Certificate III delivered by Hessel Pty Ltd over 46 weeks (~11 months). This qualification is designed for individuals who wish to work in early childhood education settings, such as childcare centers, kindergartens, and preschools. The course covers essential skills for supporting children's development, including health and safety, play-based learning, and fostering positive relationships. As an international student, you'll benefit from the practical work placement component, which provides hands-on experience in an Australian early learning environment. Hessel Pty Ltd (CRICOS 04363G) is a private provider located in Wellard, South Australia. The course is registered on the CRICOS register, ensuring it meets Australian standards for international education. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, Australia is a top destination for early childhood education studies. This page provides detailed information about the course structure, fees, entry requirements, and student visa considerations to help you make an informed decision.

All listed providers are CRICOS-registered with the Australian Government
Data sourced directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026)
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What you'll study

This qualification focuses on developing skills to work with children from birth to five years. Areas of study include promoting children's health and safety, designing and implementing play-based learning experiences, and building respectful relationships with children and families. Graduates typically learn to support children's physical, social, emotional, and cognitive development in line with the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF). The course combines theoretical knowledge with practical application, preparing students for roles such as early childhood educator or assistant. While specific subjects are set by the provider, core competencies often cover communication, teamwork, and cultural awareness in early childhood settings. This qualification is recognized across Australia under the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF Level 3). In addition, students explore inclusive practices, ethical behavior, and legal requirements in early childhood education. The course also emphasizes reflective practice and ongoing professional development. With a focus on Australian standards, graduates are equipped to contribute to quality early learning environments.

Duration and study mode

The course is delivered over 46 weeks (~11 months) as recorded on the CRICOS register. Instruction is in English, and it is a single qualification with no dual or foundation studies. Students are expected to attend classes at the Hessel Group West campus in Wellard. The program typically runs on a full-time basis, allowing international students to maintain their student visa compliance. The course structure includes both classroom learning and practical placement hours. For details on study schedules, contact Hessel Pty Ltd directly.

Fees (indicative)

According to the CRICOS register as at April 2026, the indicative tuition fee for this course is A$13,650. There are no non-tuition fees listed, bringing the estimated total to A$13,650. Please note that these fees are set by Hessel Pty Ltd and may change. Always confirm with the provider before applying. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and visa application charges are not included. For the most current fee information, visit the provider's website. As a guide, living expenses in South Australia are approximately A$20,000 to A$25,000 per year, including rent, food, and transport.

Entry requirements (general guidance)

International students typically need to demonstrate English language proficiency. For this course, the recommended IELTS score is 5.0 to 5.5 overall (or equivalent such as TOEFL or PTE). Academic requirements may include completion of Australian Year 10 or equivalent. Prior qualifications or experience in education or childcare may be beneficial but are not always mandatory. Foundation or pathway programs are available if you do not meet direct entry requirements — consult Hessel Pty Ltd for options. All entry requirements are subject to the provider's admission policies.

Work component

This course includes a mandatory work component of 8 weeks, with 20 hours per week, totaling approximately 160 hours of supervised industry placement. This hands-on experience takes place in a real early childhood setting, such as a childcare center, where you will apply your learnings under the guidance of experienced educators. The placement is designed to develop your practical skills in child supervision, program implementation, and communication with families. It is an excellent opportunity to gain Australian workplace experience and build professional networks.

Delivery locations

The course is delivered at Hessel Group West, located at 2 Arlington Terrace, Wellard, SA 5007. Wellard is a suburb in the Adelaide metropolitan area. Adelaide, the capital of South Australia, is known for its affordable cost of living and high quality of life. According to recent data, Adelaide has over 250 CRICOS-registered providers offering a wide range of courses. The campus is accessible by public transport, with bus stops nearby and train connections to the city center. Living costs in Adelaide are generally lower than in Sydney or Melbourne, with indicative weekly rent for a shared apartment around $150-$250.

Student visa

International students studying this course on a full-time basis may apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. You will also need Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement must be satisfied, demonstrating that your intention is to study in Australia temporarily. Additionally, you must show sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, travel, and dependents if applicable. For detailed visa guidance, consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent (MARA). HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice.

How to apply

Follow these three steps to apply for Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care at Hessel Pty Ltd:

1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field, and city. Verify the provider's CRICOS registration at cricos.teqsa.gov.au.

2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check entry requirements (e.g., English test scores), prepare your documents (transcripts, CV, passport), and submit your application to Hessel Pty Ltd by their deadline.

3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, you will receive a CoE. Then apply for the student visa through the Department of Home Affairs, including proof of OSHC, GTE statement, and financial evidence.

Is South Australia right for you?

South Australia offers a welcoming environment for international students. Adelaide is a vibrant, multicultural city with a strong focus on education and innovation. The early childhood education sector is growing, with opportunities for qualified educators. Living costs are relatively low compared to eastern states, and the city has excellent public transport. Consider factors like climate, lifestyle, and proximity to family. HeadStart Academy provides resources to help you compare states and find the best fit for your studies.

Ready to apply? Review the application steps above and contact Hessel Pty Ltd for the latest information.

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Source-backed course facts

Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Hessel 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
117992E
Provider
Hessel Pty Ltd (04363G)
Course level
Certificate III
Field of education
07 - Education
Duration
46 weeks
Tuition (indicative)
A$13,650
Estimated total (indicative)
A$13,650
Delivery locations
FULLARTON
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 tuition fee is A$13,650 for the entire course, with no additional non-tuition fees listed, totaling A$13,650. These figures are from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Fees are subject to change, so always confirm directly with Hessel Pty Ltd. Note that OSHC, living expenses, and visa costs are separate.
The course duration is 46 weeks (~11 months) on the CRICOS register. It includes a work placement component of 8 weeks (160 hours). Students must attend full-time to comply with visa conditions.
International students typically need an IELTS score of 5.0-5.5 overall or equivalent. Academic requirements include completion of Australian Year 10 or equivalent. Some prior experience or study in child care may be helpful. For specific entry criteria, contact Hessel Pty Ltd.
The course is delivered at Hessel Group West, 2 Arlington Terrace, Wellard, SA 5007, in the Adelaide metropolitan area. The campus is accessible by public transport.
CRICOS lists estimated total fees of A$13,650 for Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (tuition A$13,650). Figures are indicative as at the April 2026 register snapshot — confirm current fees with Hessel Pty Ltd before applying.
The CRICOS course code is 117992E, offered by Hessel Pty Ltd (provider code 04363G). Use these codes when checking your offer and CoE.