Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 119602H) is a Certificate III delivered by Australian Learning Group Pty Ltd over 1 year. This qualification is designed for those seeking to work in early childhood education settings, such as childcare centres and preschools. The course provides foundational skills in child development, behaviour guidance, and program planning. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 03071E), it meets Australian standards for international students. HeadStart Academy sources data directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), which includes 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers offering 26,433 courses. All listed providers comply with the ESOS Act, ensuring student protections. This page offers a comprehensive guide to fees, entry requirements, delivery locations, and the application process for this course at Australian Learning Group.
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This course belongs to the field of education: Teacher Education: Early Childhood (field code 070101). It covers core competencies for working with children from birth to school age. Students learn about child development, health and safety, creating inclusive learning environments, and working with families. The curriculum integrates theoretical knowledge with practical skills, preparing graduates for roles as early childhood educators. While HeadStart Academy does not specify the exact syllabus, typical Certificate III programs include units on supporting children's play, cultural competence, and regulatory frameworks. Graduates may go on to further study at Diploma level or enter the workforce in positions such as childcare assistant or family day care educator.
The course duration is 1 year (52 weeks on the CRICOS register). It is delivered in English as a single qualification (no dual qualification or foundation studies). Students may have the option of full-time study, typically comprising 20+ hours per week of contact time and self-study. International students must maintain satisfactory course attendance and progress under the ESOS framework. This course is not offered online; all delivery is face-to-face at one of the six campus locations across Australia.
The indicative tuition fee is A$11,700, with non-tuition fees of A$795, bringing the estimated total to A$12,495. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. International students should budget for additional costs: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) (approximately A$600–700 per year for single cover), living expenses (the Department of Home Affairs recommends A$21,041 per year for a single student, plus 70% of that for a spouse, and A$3,000 per year for each child), and the visa application charge (currently A$710 for Subclass 500). Always confirm current fees with Australian Learning Group directly via their website at https://alg.edu.au/.
Australian Learning Group sets specific entry requirements. Generally, for a Certificate III level, applicants need to have completed Australian Year 10 (or equivalent) and demonstrate English proficiency. The indicative English requirement is IELTS 5.0–5.5 overall (or equivalent). For those who do not meet direct entry, the provider may offer pathway options such as a foundation studies program. HeadStart Academy recommends contacting the provider directly to confirm the most up-to-date requirements. All international students must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion and financial capacity requirements for a student visa.
This course includes a mandatory work component: 10 weeks of industry placement at 16 hours per week (approximately 160 total hours). This is a core part of the qualification, allowing students to apply their learning in real early childhood settings. Work-integrated learning may include supervised placement in childcare centres, preschools, or other approved facilities. It provides valuable hands-on experience and can enhance employability after graduation. Students must arrange their own placement with support from the provider, and may need to obtain a Working with Children Check and comply with immunisation requirements.
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care is offered at six Australian Learning Group campuses: - 243 Edward St, Brisbane City QLD 4000 (Brisbane, QLD) - Level 1, 601 Bourke St, Melbourne VIC (Melbourne, VIC) - Level 6, 601 Bourke St, Melbourne VIC 3000 (Melbourne, VIC) - Level 7, 601 Bourke St, Melbourne VIC 3000 (Melbourne, VIC) - Level 7, Thomas St, Sydney 2000 (Haymarket, NSW) - Suite 1 Level 3, 127 Rundle Mall, Adelaide SA (Adelaide, SA)
These cities are major education hubs in Australia. Brisbane has over 60 CRICOS-registered providers, Melbourne over 80, Sydney over 100, and Adelaide around 30. Studying in these cities offers access to diverse communities and public transport. Living costs vary: indicative weekly rent for a student can range from A$200–400 in shared accommodation, groceries A$80–150, and public transport A$30–60. Check your campus location for specific transport links.
International students enrolling in this course must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from the provider; Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement demonstrating genuine intention to study and return home; evidence of financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC; and meeting health and character requirements. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks. OSHC is mandatory for the duration of the visa. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; consult a MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs for personalised advice.
Choosing to study Early Childhood Education in Australia offers a pathway to a rewarding career with strong demand. The sector is regulated by the Australian Children's Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA). Graduates may find employment in childcare centres, kindergartens, and family day care. Working with children requires patience and cultural sensitivity. International students should consider the cost of living in their chosen city: Sydney and Melbourne are more expensive, while Adelaide and Brisbane are more affordable. All CRICOS-registered courses are protected by the ESOS Act, ensuring tuition fee protection and support services. With over 1,500 CRICOS providers, you have options—but ensure your chosen provider and course meet your goals. HeadStart Academy’s database can help you compare courses and providers.
Follow these three steps to apply: 1. Research: Use HeadStart Academy to filter CRICOS-registered providers offering Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care. Check entry requirements, fees, and locations. Australian Learning Group is one of many approved providers. 2. Apply directly: Submit your application through Australian Learning Group’s website (alg.edu.au). You’ll need to provide academic transcripts, English test results (e.g., IELTS), and copies of your passport. Deadlines vary—apply early to secure a place. 3. Receive your CoE and apply for your visa: If accepted, the provider will issue a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). With the CoE, you can lodge your Student visa (Subclass 500) application online via ImmiAccount. Ensure you have OSHC, sufficient funds, and a GTE statement ready.
Ready to start your journey in Early Childhood Education? Compare this course with others on HeadStart Academy or contact Australian Learning Group for a current fee schedule and application details.
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Australian Learning Group 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.