Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 119613E) is a Certificate III delivered by Sydney Metro College Pty Ltd over 1 year. This AQF Level 3 qualification, in the field of Teacher Education: Early Childhood (070101), prepares you for a rewarding career in early childhood settings such as childcare centres. The course includes a 160-hour work placement to build practical skills. Sydney Metro College is a private CRICOS-registered provider (03427D) with campuses in New South Wales and Victoria. As a free resource using official CRICOS data (April 2026), HeadStart Academy helps you explore over 26,000 courses from 1,556 registered providers. All listed institutions are CRICOS-registered, ensuring ESOS Act protections for international students.
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Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 119613E) is a Certificate III delivered by Sydney Metro College Pty Ltd over 1 year. This qualification sits at AQF Level 3 and falls under the field of Education (070101). It is designed for individuals who want to work in early childhood education settings such as childcare centres. The course includes a work component of 160 hours. Sydney Metro College is a private CRICOS-registered provider (03427D) with campuses in New South Wales and Victoria. CRICOS registration is your guarantee of quality and that your course meets Australian Government standards for international students.
This course covers foundational knowledge in early childhood development, planning educational programs, and ensuring children's safety. Graduates at this level typically learn to work under supervision, support children's learning and development, and adhere to regulations. The field of Teacher Education: Early Childhood focuses on preparing educators for young children from birth to school age. You'll gain skills in communication, teamwork, and fostering inclusive environments. While specific units are set by the provider, the VET national code CHC30125 outlines the industry standards for this qualification.
The course runs for 52 weeks (1 year) full-time. Instruction is in English. This is a single qualification (no dual award) and is not a foundation studies program. The CRICOS registration confirms the duration and mode. Full-time study is a requirement for maintaining your Student visa (Subclass 500). With over 26,000 courses available on the CRICOS register, you can compare durations across providers to find the best fit for your schedule.
Indicative tuition fee is A$18,000, non-tuition fees A$1,000, total estimated at A$19,000. These fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. Always check the provider's website for current fees. Fees are set by Sydney Metro College and subject to change. As a guide, living costs in Sydney average A$500–700 per week including rent, groceries, and transport; Melbourne is slightly lower at A$400–600. The Department of Home Affairs requires evidence of funds to cover your first year of study, living costs, and travel.
Entry typically requires completion of Australian Year 10 or equivalent. English language proficiency of IELTS 5.0–5.5 overall (or equivalent like TOEFL or PTE). For specific entry requirements, contact Sydney Metro College. Foundation studies or pathway options may be available if you don't meet direct entry. Always verify with the provider, as requirements can vary. International students must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion for their visa.
The course includes a mandatory work placement of 5 weeks at 32 hours per week (approximately 160 hours total). This industry placement provides practical experience in an early childhood setting, allowing you to apply your learning in a real environment. Work-integrated learning is a key part of vocational qualifications in Australia, giving you a competitive edge in the job market. The placement is supervised and assessed as part of your course. You'll need to arrange your own travel to the placement site, but the provider will support the process.
The course is delivered at three locations: Petersham Training Centre (49A New Canterbury Rd, Petersham, NSW), SMC Melbourne Campus (Melbourne, VIC), and Sydney Metro College (Surry Hills) (Level 2, 16-22 Wentworth Avenue, Surry Hills, NSW). Each location offers access to public transport and local amenities. Sydney's Petersham and Surry Hills are inner-city suburbs with excellent train and bus connections. Melbourne's campus is centrally located. Sydney has over 50 CRICOS-registered providers offering early childhood courses, while Melbourne also offers many options. The cost of living in Surry Hills/Petersham is typical of Sydney's inner suburbs; Melbourne is generally more affordable.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500). Visa conditions include studying full-time, maintaining OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover), and complying with the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement. Students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited during scheduled holidays. You must provide evidence of financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC. For detailed information, visit the Department of Home Affairs or consult a registered migration agent (MARA). HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care at Sydney Metro College: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and location. Compare providers and confirm CRICOS registration. 2. Apply directly to Sydney Metro College Pty Ltd – check entry requirements (including English test scores), prepare your documents, and submit your application before the deadline. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) – once accepted, you'll get a CoE. Then lodge your visa application online, ensuring you meet GTE, financial, and health cover requirements.
Early childhood education is a growing field in Australia with strong job prospects and potential for migration. Consider your passion for working with children, the location of study (city vs regional), and the cost of living. Sydney's weekly rent averages A$300–500, Melbourne A$250–400, and public transport is accessible for all campuses. Ensure you choose a CRICOS-registered provider to guarantee quality and visa compliance. Also, check if the course includes a work placement, as practical experience is highly valued. The ESOS Act protects international students, and the CRICOS register is the definitive source of approved courses. With over 1,500 providers and 26,000 courses, you have many options – but this course at Sydney Metro College offers a solid foundation for your career.
Start your journey in early childhood education – explore more courses on HeadStart Academy and apply to Sydney Metro College today.
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Sydney Metro College 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.