Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 119533E) is a Certificate III delivered by NATIONAL POLYTECHNIC OF AUSTRALIA PTY LTD over 1 year. This qualification is designed for international students who want to start a career in early childhood education, equipping them with practical skills to support the development and learning of children from birth to 5 years. Studying in Australia not only provides a world-class education but also access to ESOS Act protections and pathways to further study or employment. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 04096K), it meets Australian Government standards for international student programs. Whether you plan to work in childcare centers, preschools, or family day care, this certificate lays the foundation for a rewarding profession. HeadStart Academy is a free resource that helps you explore over 26,000 CRICOS courses across 1,500+ providers. Use this page to compare key details and take the next step toward your Australian study dream.
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 119533E) is a vocational qualification at AQF Level 3, classified under the field of 07 - Education (Teacher Education, n.f.c.). Delivered by NATIONAL POLYTECHNIC OF AUSTRALIA PTY LTD (CRICOS 04096K, Private), this course runs for 1 year (52 weeks) with English as the language of instruction. It is a single qualification with no dual or foundation study component. The VET national code for this course is CHC30125, and it does not include a mandatory work component. International students can enrol at two delivery locations: Quay Street in Haymarket, NSW, and South Melbourne in Victoria. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, students are protected under the ESOS Act and can access student visa provisions for study in Australia.
While specific syllabi are set by NATIONAL POLYTECHNIC OF AUSTRALIA PTY LTD, students in this field typically learn to support children's development, plan educational activities, ensure health and safety, and build respectful relationships with families. Core skills include fostering emotional, social, and cognitive growth through play-based learning, as well as adhering to national quality frameworks and workplace policies. Graduates emerge ready to work as early childhood educators in a variety of settings, including long day care centers, kindergartens, and before/after school care programs. This course provides a strong foundation for those who wish to pursue higher qualifications, such as the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care.
According to the CRICOS register, this course has a duration of 1 year (52 weeks). Instruction is delivered in English, and students can expect a full-time study load. The course is a single qualification — it is not packaged as a dual degree or foundation program. Students should confirm the specific timetable and study mode (e.g., on-campus delivery) directly with NATIONAL POLYTECHNIC OF AUSTRALIA PTY LTD, as CRICOS data does not specify online or part-time options. International students must maintain full-time enrollment to comply with Student visa (Subclass 500) conditions.
Indicative fees for this course, as recorded in the CRICOS register as at April 2026, are: tuition A$14,000, non-tuition fees A$700, giving an estimated total of A$14,700. Please note that these figures are set by NATIONAL POLYTECHNIC OF AUSTRALIA PTY LTD and subject to change. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (rent, food, transport), and the visa application charge. For current fees, always check the provider's website. As a guide, living costs in Sydney or Melbourne range from approximately A$20,000 to A$25,000 per year, covering accommodation, groceries, and public transport.
General entry requirements for this course include an IELTS score of 5.0–5.5 overall or equivalent English proficiency test. Applicants should have completed Australian Year 10 or an equivalent overseas qualification. Some providers may have specific prerequisites, such as a Working with Children Check or prior study in related fields. Foundation or pathway options may be available if you do not meet direct entry requirements — contact NATIONAL POLYTECHNIC OF AUSTRALIA PTY LTD for details. Always confirm the exact requirements with the provider, as CRICOS data provides only a guide.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, all international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are eligible to work 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This allows you to gain industry experience and supplement your living costs. Note that work rights are subject to visa conditions, and it is essential to enroll in a CRICOS-registered course to be eligible.
The course is delivered at two locations in Australia: Quay Street in Haymarket, New South Wales (near Sydney CBD), and South Melbourne in Victoria (close to Melbourne city). Sydney is home to over 200 CRICOS-registered providers, while Melbourne boasts over 150, offering vibrant student communities. Both cities have excellent public transport, making campuses easily accessible. Haymarket is a bustling hub near Central Station, while South Melbourne is a lively inner-city suburb with tram and train connections. Living costs are similar in both cities — expect weekly rent of A$250–A$400 for shared accommodation, plus A$60–A$80 for groceries.
To study this CRICOS-registered course, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: 1) Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from NATIONAL POLYTECHNIC OF AUSTRALIA PTY LTD. 2) Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement. 3) Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. 4) Proof of sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. As mentioned, work rights allow up to 48 hours per fortnight during term. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice — consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs for visa applications. ESOS Act protections ensure your rights as an international student.
Follow these three steps to enrol in Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care at NATIONAL POLYTECHNIC OF AUSTRALIA PTY LTD: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field, and city. Compare providers like NATIONAL POLYTECHNIC OF AUSTRALIA PTY LTD and check their CRICOS code (04096K). 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Meet entry requirements (English test, prior qualifications), submit your application before the deadline, and provide necessary documents. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once you have the CoE, lodge your visa application online through the Department of Home Affairs, including OSHC evidence and financial documents.
Both NSW and Victoria offer excellent opportunities for early childhood education students. Sydney (NSW) has a high demand for qualified educators, with many childcare centers and preschools. Melbourne (Victoria) is known for its strong early years framework and diverse multicultural settings. When choosing a location, consider your personal preferences for climate, lifestyle, and cost of living. Both cities have affordable public transport and vibrant student communities. With over 1,500 CRICOS providers across Australia, you can also explore other states. Use HeadStart Academy to compare courses and locations to find the best fit for your goals.
Ready to start your study journey? Visit the NATIONAL POLYTECHNIC OF AUSTRALIA PTY LTD website for the latest fees and to apply.
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Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at NATIONAL POLYTECHNIC OF AUSTRALIA 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.