Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 119572J) is a Certificate III delivered by Department of Training and Workforce Development over 1 year. This qualification is designed for individuals who want to work in early childhood education settings, such as childcare centres, preschools, and family day care. Graduates will gain the skills to support children's development, implement learning activities, and work under supervision. Registered on CRICOS (provider 00020G), this course is offered across multiple campuses in Western Australia, giving students flexibility in location. As a HeadStart Academy resource, all data is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026). Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses to international students. The ESOS Act protects your rights as an international student. This course includes a substantial work component of 475 hours, ensuring graduates are job-ready. Fees are indicative and subject to change – always confirm with the provider.
This course falls under the field of Education (07) with a specific focus on Teacher Education: Early Childhood (070101). At Certificate III level (AQF Level 3), students develop foundational skills in childhood development, health and safety, cultural competence, and inclusive practices. Graduates learn to create engaging learning environments, support children's play and learning, and work effectively with families and communities. While the exact syllabus is set by the provider, typical topics include child development, first aid, communication with children, and understanding legal frameworks. This level provides a pathway to further study, such as Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care.
According to the CRICOS register, the course duration is 1 year (52 weeks). The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (not a dual or packaged course) and does not include foundation studies. Students are expected to study full-time on campus, with a significant work-integrated learning component. The course is delivered face-to-face at TAFE campuses across Western Australia.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$13,752, with non-tuition fees of A$977, totalling an estimated A$14,729. These fees are set by Department of Training and Workforce Development and sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Please note: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs (approximately A$600–1,200 per week depending on location), and the visa application charge are not included. Always check the provider's website (http://www.tafeinternational.wa.edu.au/) for the most current fees, as they are subject to change.
International students typically need an IELTS overall score of 5.0–5.5 or equivalent (e.g., TOEFL, PTE). For Certificate III level, applicants should have completed Year 11 or equivalent. Prior qualifications in early childhood are not required, but relevant experience may be beneficial. Some providers may offer foundation or pathway programs for students who do not meet academic or English requirements. Contact Department of Training and Workforce Development directly for specific entry criteria.
This course includes a mandatory work component: 25 weeks at 19 hours per week, totalling approximately 475 hours. This work-integrated learning typically involves industry placements in childcare centres, kindergartens, or early learning centres. Under supervision, students apply classroom theory to real-world settings, developing practical skills in caring for children, planning activities, and working with families. This experience is invaluable for meeting professional requirements and enhancing employability.
The course is delivered at six campuses across Western Australia: Central Regional TAFE (Kalgoorlie, Geraldton, Northam), North Metropolitan TAFE (Leederville), North Regional TAFE (Broome), and South Metropolitan TAFE (Murdoch). Each campus offers access to local amenities. Western Australia has a diverse student population, with Perth being a major study hub. Public transport links vary by location; regional campuses may require private transport. Living costs in WA range from A$600–1,200 per week for rent, groceries, and transport, with Perth being more expensive than regional areas.
International students require a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. Key conditions include: maintain enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, attend classes satisfactorily, and hold OSHC for the duration of the visa. Students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during course sessions and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. All applicants must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, demonstrating intent to stay temporarily for study. Health insurance (OSHC) is mandatory. Financial capacity requirements include tuition, living costs, and travel. For personalised advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs.
Follow these three steps to apply for Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care at Department of Training and Workforce Development: 1) Research CRICOS-registered providers – use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field, and city to find the right course. 2) Apply directly to your chosen institution – ensure you meet entry requirements and English test scores. Prepare documents and submit your application by the deadline. 3) Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – once enrolled, you'll get a CoE, which you need for the visa application. Then apply online via the Department of Home Affairs.
Western Australia is a popular destination for international students, with over 50,000 students enrolled across its universities and TAFEs. Perth, the capital, offers a vibrant lifestyle with affordable living compared to Sydney or Melbourne. Regional campuses like Kalgoorlie and Broome provide unique opportunities to study in smaller communities. The state has extensive public transport in Perth, but regional areas may require a car. Living costs vary: Perth weekly rent A$400–700, groceries A$100–150, transport A$30–50. Many international students choose WA for its strong economy, outdoor lifestyle, and quality education. HeadStart Academy lists all CRICOS-registered providers in WA to help you compare.
Ready to study in Western Australia? Explore more Certificate III courses in early childhood education on HeadStart Academy and compare CRICOS-registered providers today.
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Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Department of Training and Workforce Development. 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.