Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 119576E) is a Certificate III delivered by Technical and Further Education Commission over 49 weeks (~11 months). This qualification is designed for individuals who want to work in early childhood education settings, such as child care centres, preschools, or family day care. Students learn about child development, health and safety, and how to create educational programs. The course includes a mandatory work component of 4 weeks (approximately 160 hours) in an approved early childhood service. As a CRICOS-registered course, international students are protected under the ESOS Act. TAFE NSW, the provider, is a government-owned institution with a strong reputation for vocational training. With six delivery locations across NSW, including Armidale, Bankstown, Bathurst, Campbelltown, Coffs Harbour, and Glendale, students can choose a campus that suits their lifestyle. Upon completion, graduates can pursue further study or seek employment as early childhood educators in Australia.
This course falls under the field of Education (07) with a focus on Teacher Education: Early Childhood (070101). At Certificate III level, students gain foundational knowledge and skills in early childhood education and care. Key areas include supporting children's development, fostering positive relationships, and maintaining a safe environment. Students also learn about cultural diversity, inclusion, and effective communication with families. The course combines theory with practical application, preparing graduates to work as educators in a range of settings. The VET national code for this qualification is CHC30125. Note that this is a general description of the field; for specific syllabus details, consult TAFE NSW.
The course duration is 49 weeks (~11 months) as recorded on the CRICOS register. Instruction is delivered in English. There are no dual qualification or foundation studies options associated with this course. Students are expected to attend classes full-time, with a combination of classroom learning and practical placement. The language of instruction is English, so proficiency is required.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$12,080, with no additional non-tuition fees listed, making the estimated total A$12,080. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Please note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the visa application charge are not included. For current fee information, always visit the TAFE NSW international website.
International students typically need an IELTS score of 5.0-5.5 overall (or equivalent) to meet English language requirements. As a Certificate III course, prior qualifications such as completion of Australian Year 10 or equivalent are generally expected. Some providers may also require a police check or working with children check due to the nature of working with children. For detailed entry requirements, including any foundation or pathway options, please refer to TAFE NSW directly.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 4 weeks, approximately 160 total hours. This work-integrated learning is typically an industry placement in an early childhood education setting. During the placement, students apply their classroom knowledge in a real-world environment under supervision. It is an essential part of the training and helps students gain practical experience. The exact hours per week may vary, so confirm with the provider.
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care is delivered at six TAFE NSW campuses across New South Wales: Armidale (Beardy Street), Bankstown, Bathurst, Campbelltown, Coffs Harbour (Hogbin Drive), and Glendale (Cardiff). Each location offers a different living experience. For example, Armidale is a regional city with a lower cost of living, while Bankstown is in suburban Sydney with higher living costs. Students should consider transport links, accommodation options, and lifestyle preferences when choosing a campus.
International students studying this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to study full-time in Australia and work up to 48 hours per fortnight while your course is in session, and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. You must also maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. In addition, you must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. For visa guidance, always consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent.
Follow these three steps to apply for Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care at Technical and Further Education Commission: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to compare courses and find the right fit. 2. Apply directly to the institution: Prepare your documents, meet entry requirements (including English tests), and submit your application by the deadline. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once you have your CoE, submit your visa application online. Remember to arrange OSHC and funds.
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Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Technical and Further Education Commission. 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.