Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 119460F) is a Certificate III delivered by Platinum Institute Pty Ltd over 1 year. This qualification sits under the field of Education (07) and is designed for international students seeking to work in early childhood settings in Australia. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 04409J), it meets the standards of the ESOS Act, ensuring quality education and student protections. Delivered in Melbourne, Victoria, this course combines theoretical learning with practical placement to prepare graduates for roles in childcare centres and preschools. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers and 26,000+ courses available nationally, HeadStart Academy helps you navigate your options. Explore the details below, including fees, entry requirements, and visa guidance to take the next step in your Australian study journey.
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Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS 119460F) is a nationally recognised qualification at AQF Level 3, offered by Platinum Institute Pty Ltd (CRICOS 04409J). The course duration is 52 weeks (1 year), with English as the language of instruction. It is a single qualification (not a dual or foundation program) and includes a mandatory work component of 8 weeks (approximately 160 hours). The course is delivered at the provider's Melbourne campus located at Level 10, 474 Flinders Street, in the heart of Melbourne's CBD. This location is well-served by public transport, with Flinders Street Station and trams nearby, making it accessible for international students. All data on this page is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026, ensuring accuracy and reliability.
This course belongs to the field of Teacher Education: Early Childhood (070101). Learners develop skills in supporting children's development, planning educational activities, maintaining safe environments, and working collaboratively with families. Typical learning outcomes include understanding child development theories, implementing play-based learning, meeting health and safety standards, and fostering inclusive practices. While the exact syllabus is set by Platinum Institute Pty Ltd, graduates of Certificate III level programs are equipped to work as early childhood educators under supervision. This qualification provides a pathway to further study, such as Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care, which may be offered by the same provider.
The course is scheduled over 52 weeks on a full-time basis, as recorded on the CRICOS register. Instruction is conducted entirely in English. This is a single qualification program, not a dual or combined award, and does not include foundation studies. The provider determines the exact study timetable, including class hours and break periods. International students should be aware that the duration directly affects visa conditions, such as the validity of their Student visa (Subclass 500) and eligibility for work rights. Always confirm the intended duration with the institution before enrolling.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$11,000, with non-tuition fees of A$1,250, giving an estimated total of A$12,250. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register and are set by Platinum Institute Pty Ltd. Note that fees are indicative only and subject to change – always verify the current costs on the provider's website at www.platinuminstitute.com.au. Additional expenses not included in the total are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs (approximately A$1,500–A$2,000 per month in Melbourne), and the visa application charge. Budgeting for these is essential for meeting the financial capacity requirements of the Student visa. HeadStart Academy provides general guidance but recommends checking official sources.
As a guide, international students typically need an IELTS overall score of 5.0–5.5 (or equivalent). Applicants should hold a qualification equivalent to Australian Year 12 or higher. Foundation or pathway options may be available for students who do not meet the direct entry requirements – contact Platinum Institute Pty Ltd for details. All applicants must satisfy the provider's academic and English proficiency standards. Additionally, for visa purposes, the Department of Home Affairs may require evidence of English language ability depending on your country of origin. HeadStart Academy does not assess eligibility; we recommend consulting the provider or a registered migration agent for personalised advice.
This course includes a work-integrated learning component of 8 weeks, estimated at 160 total hours (20 hours per week). It involves an industry placement in an early childhood education setting, such as a childcare centre or preschool. Placements are arranged by the provider and allow students to apply classroom theory in real-world environments. This practical experience is integral to the qualification and helps students develop professional skills and confidence. Note that placement hours may affect your Student visa work rights – while placement is part of your course, paid work outside of placement is capped at 48 hours per fortnight during term. Confirm placement schedules with Platinum Institute Pty Ltd.
The course is delivered at Level 10, 474 Flinders Street Melbourne 3000 – in the Melbourne CBD. Melbourne is Victoria's capital, home to over 200,000 international students and more than 40 CRICOS-registered providers offering early childhood education courses. The campus is steps from Flinders Street Station, with tram and train connections across the city. Living costs in Melbourne average A$1,500–$2,000 per month for rent, groceries, and transport. The city offers a vibrant lifestyle with a strong job market for early childhood educators. For a broader view, explore other Certificate III options in Victoria via our study pages.
International students require a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. Key conditions include: maintaining enrolment with a CRICOS-registered provider, maintaining OSHC, and satisfying the genuine temporary entrant (GTE) requirement. Student work rights allow up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited work during scheduled breaks. You must also demonstrate sufficient financial capacity for tuition, living costs, and travel. HeadStart Academy provides visa guidance but does not provide immigration advice. For detailed eligibility and applications, consult the Department of Home Affairs or a MARA-registered agent.
Follow these three steps to apply for Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care at Platinum Institute Pty Ltd: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and city. Compare Platinum Institute Pty Ltd with other options in Melbourne. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check entry requirements, submit English test results, and meet application deadlines. Contact Platinum Institute Pty Ltd for the application form and supporting documents. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once you have your CoE, prepare your visa application with evidence of finances, OSHC, and GTE statement. Lodge your visa online through the Department of Home Affairs.
Melbourne is a top study destination for international students, offering a multicultural environment, quality education, and strong job prospects. With over 200,000 international students from 170 countries, the city has a well-established support network. Living costs are slightly higher than other Australian cities but manageable with proper budgeting. Public transport is efficient, and the early childhood education sector in Victoria is growing, providing potential employment opportunities after graduation. Consider factors like climate, lifestyle, and accommodation options before deciding. HeadStart Academy provides free resources to help you compare locations and courses.
Ready to start your early childhood education journey? Compare more Certificate III courses in Melbourne or apply directly to Platinum Institute Pty Ltd today.
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Platinum Institute 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.