Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 119573H) is a Certificate III delivered by TAFE SA over 1 year. This qualification is ideal for international students seeking entry-level roles in early childhood education settings such as childcare centres and preschools. With a strong focus on practical skills and work-integrated learning, graduates are equipped to support children's development and wellbeing. TAFE SA is a government-owned provider with a long history of vocational education, and this course is CRICOS-registered, meaning it meets Australian standards for international student enrolment. As part of HeadStart Academy’s free resource, we provide accurate CRICOS data (as at April 2026) to help you make informed decisions about studying in Australia.
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Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 119573H) is a Certificate III delivered by TAFE SA over 1 year. This qualification is classified under the field of Education (07) and Teacher Education (0701), specifically Teacher Education: Early Childhood (070101). It is a single qualification (no dual awards) and is not a foundation studies program. The vocational national code is CHC30125, which aligns with the nationally endorsed training package. As a CRICOS-registered course, it is available to international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500). TAFE SA is a public provider (CRICOS 00092B) with a strong reputation for quality vocational training in South Australia.
This course provides the foundational knowledge and practical skills required to work in early childhood education. Students learn about child development, health and safety, supporting children's play and learning, and building positive relationships with families and communities. While specific units vary, the content is designed to prepare graduates for roles such as early childhood educator or assistant educator in childcare centres, kindergartens, and other early learning settings. The course emphasises hands-on, work-integrated learning to ensure graduates are job-ready.
The course duration is 1 year (52 weeks) as per the CRICOS register. Language of instruction is English, and it is delivered as a single qualification (no dual qualification). TAFE SA offers this course on-campus at Regency Park Campus. International students should be prepared for full-time study commitments, including both classroom learning and practical placement components.
Tuition fees for this course are indicative at A$14,490 total. Non-tuition fees are A$0, giving an estimated total of A$14,490. Please note that these figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by TAFE SA. Fees are subject to change, and you should always confirm with TAFE SA before applying. Additional costs not included in the course fees are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (e.g., accommodation, food, transport), and the student visa application charge. Refer to the Department of Home Affairs for current visa costs and OSHC requirements.
International applicants typically need an IELTS overall band score of 5.0 to 5.5 (or equivalent) for this level of study. Additionally, applicants are expected to have completed Australian Year 10 or equivalent. TAFE SA may also consider previous qualifications or work experience. Foundation or pathway programs may be available for students who do not meet direct entry requirements; check TAFE SA’s website for details. Always verify specific entry requirements with the provider, as they can change.
This course includes a mandatory work component: 24 weeks of industry placement (approximately 168 total hours). This is a practicum or professional experience placement where students work in a licensed early childhood setting under supervision. It provides real-world application of skills and is a key part of the qualification. International students on a Student visa can also work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions.
This course is delivered at Regency Park Campus, located in REGENCY PARK, South Australia. Adelaide, the capital of SA, has a vibrant student community with over 30,000 international students. The cost of living in Adelaide is generally lower than in Sydney or Melbourne. As a guide, weekly rent for shared accommodation is around A$150–A$250, groceries A$80–A$120, and public transport A$30–A$50 (concession available). Regency Park is a northern suburb of Adelaide, accessible by bus and train. South Australia has over 20 CRICOS-registered providers offering early childhood education courses.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this CRICOS-registered course. Key requirements include meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, maintaining adequate Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and demonstrating sufficient financial capacity (tuition, living costs, and travel). The Department of Home Affairs sets the visa application fee and processing times. All international students in Australia are protected by the ESOS Act (Education Services for Overseas Students), which ensures quality education and consumer rights. Note: HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice; consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit homeaffairs.gov.au.
Follow these three steps to apply:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Certificate III), field (Education), and location (South Australia). Confirm that TAFE SA (CRICOS 00092B) offers the course you want.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Visit TAFE SA’s international website (http://www.tafesa.edu.au/international) to review specific entry requirements, including English language test scores (IELTS 5.0–5.5) and academic qualifications. Submit your application along with required documents (transcripts, passport, English test results). Be mindful of application deadlines.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** – If accepted, TAFE SA will issue your CoE. Use this to lodge your Student visa (Subclass 500) application online via ImmiAccount. Include evidence of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE statement. Once granted, you can study and work under visa conditions.
Ready to apply? Visit TAFE SA’s international page to start your application for Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS 119573H).
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at TAFE SA. 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.