Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 119593D) is a Certificate III level qualification delivered by Southern Cross Education Institute Pty Ltd (CRICOS 02934D) over 50 weeks (~12 months). This course is ideal for international students seeking a pathway into Australia's early childhood sector, combining theoretical knowledge with practical work placement. As a CRICOS-registered program, it meets Australian education standards and allows you to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource based on the official CRICOS register (April 2026) – no referral fees, just transparent data to help you plan your studies in Australia. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and this course is one of thousands in the Education field.
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Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 119593D) is a Certificate III delivered by Southern Cross Education Institute Pty Ltd over 50 weeks (~12 months). This qualification is classified under the field of Education (07), specifically Teacher Education: Early Childhood (070101). It equips students with foundational skills to support children's learning and development in early childhood settings. The course VET national code is CHC30125. Upon completion, graduates may work as early childhood educators or assistants in childcare centres, kindergartens, or preschools. Southern Cross Education Institute is a private CRICOS-registered provider (02934D) with multiple delivery locations in Adelaide and Melbourne. As a CRICOS-registered course, it complies with the ESOS Act, ensuring international student protections.
This Certificate III program covers core competencies in early childhood education and care. Students learn about child development, health and safety, supporting children's play and learning, and fostering positive relationships. The curriculum typically includes units on promoting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural safety, working legally and ethically, and providing care for infants and toddlers. While specific syllabi may vary, graduates at this level are prepared for entry-level roles in the early childhood sector. The course aligns with Australian Quality Framework (AQF) Level 3, focusing on practical skills and knowledge application.
The course duration is 50 weeks (~12 months), as recorded on the CRICOS register. Language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (no dual or foundation studies). Students are expected to attend classes at one of the provider's campuses in Adelaide or Melbourne. The course may include face-to-face teaching, online components, and self-directed study. As an international student, you must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with your student visa conditions.
Tuition fees for Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care at Southern Cross Education Institute are indicative at A$12,000. Non-tuition fees (e.g., enrolment, materials) add A$850, bringing the estimated total to A$12,850. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Additional costs not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (approx. A$20,000–25,000 per year depending on city), and the student visa application charge (currently A$1,600). Always confirm current fees directly with the provider at www.scei.com.au. ESOS protections ensure you receive a refund policy in line with Australian law.
International students typically need an IELTS score of 5.0–5.5 overall (or equivalent) to demonstrate English proficiency. Applicants should have completed year 12 or equivalent. No prior work experience is required, but some providers may assess literacy and numeracy. For pathway options (e.g., if you don't meet English requirements), contact Southern Cross Education Institute directly. HeadStart Academy does not set entry requirements – these are at the institution's discretion. All criteria must be verified with the provider.
This course includes a mandatory work placement of 4 weeks (40 hours per week, totalling approximately 160 hours). This work-integrated learning component provides hands-on experience in an early childhood setting, such as a childcare centre or preschool. It allows students to apply theory to practice and gain industry exposure. Placements are arranged by the provider and are a CRICOS-registered requirement. Students must have a valid Working with Children Check (or equivalent) to participate.
The course is delivered at three campuses: 14-16 Grote Street, Adelaide (South Australia); 41 Boundary Road, North Melbourne (Victoria); and 52-56 Chetwynd St, West Melbourne (Victoria). Adelaide and Melbourne are both major education hubs with large international student populations. Melbourne is home to over 200,000 international students, while Adelaide offers a more affordable cost of living. The Adelaide campus is in the city centre, close to public transport. Melbourne campuses are near public transport links to the CBD. Typical weekly rent in Adelaide is around A$250–350, compared to A$350–500 in Melbourne. Groceries and transport are also lower in Adelaide. Both cities have strong early childhood job markets.
To study this CRICOS-registered course, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to stay in Australia for the course duration plus a period after completion. Work rights: 48 hours per fortnight while your course is in session, and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. You must maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire visa period. The genuine temporary entrant (GTE) requirement must be satisfied. Financial capacity evidence is needed to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice – consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs.
Both cities offer excellent study environments. Melbourne has a vibrant multicultural scene and extensive public transport, but higher living costs. Adelaide is more relaxed and affordable, with a growing international student community. For early childhood education, both have strong demand for qualified educators. Consider your budget, climate preference, and lifestyle. South Australia has over 20 CRICOS-registered providers offering education courses, while Victoria has many more. Use HeadStart Academy's provider search to compare options.
This career requires patience, creativity, and a genuine passion for working with children. You'll need to complete a working with children check. The field offers strong job prospects in Australia, with early childhood educators in high demand. Consider whether you prefer working with infants, toddlers, or preschoolers – different courses may specialise. Also think about location: metropolitan areas offer more placement opportunities but higher competition. Your English skills must meet the requirement, as communication is key.
Ready to start your early childhood education journey? Explore more courses on HeadStart Academy or apply directly to Southern Cross Education Institute.
View the full Southern Cross Education Institute Pty Ltd profile →
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Southern Cross Education 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.