Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 119617A) is a Certificate III delivered by Bankstown Community College Inc. over 1 year. This program is designed for international students seeking to start a career in early childhood education, focusing on foundational skills for working with children from birth to 5 years. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 03447M), it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment. Students gain practical knowledge through coursework and a mandatory work placement of 160 hours, preparing them for roles in childcare centres, preschools, and family day care. With delivery at two Sydney campuses—Bankstown and Surry Hills—students can choose a location that suits their lifestyle. The indicative tuition fee is A$10,000, with non-tuition costs of A$700, bringing the estimated total to A$10,700. Note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and visa application charges are additional. This course is ideal for those who are passionate about child development and want to work in a rewarding field in Australia.
This course belongs to the field of education, specifically Teacher Education: Early Childhood (field code 070101). At AQF Level 3, Certificate III qualifications provide foundational vocational knowledge and skills for entry-level roles. In early childhood education and care, graduates learn to support children's learning and development, plan and implement activities, maintain safe environments, and communicate effectively with families and colleagues. While specific curricula vary by provider, students typically cover topics such as child development, health and safety, cultural competence, and early learning frameworks like the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF). The course includes both theoretical study and practical application, ensuring graduates are ready to contribute in regulated children's services. For exact unit details, refer to Bankstown Community College Inc.'s student handbook or website.
According to the CRICOS register, this course has a duration of 1 year (52 weeks). The language of instruction is English, and it is a single qualification—not a dual or combined award. Study mode is typically full-time face-to-face attendance at one of the two campuses. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with student visa conditions. This course does not include foundation studies or pathway components; it is a standalone Certificate III.
The indicative tuition fee for Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care is A$10,000, with non-tuition fees of A$700, totalling approximately A$10,700 for the 1-year program. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change by the institution. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the student visa application charge. For current fees, always confirm directly with Bankstown Community College Inc. at www.bcci.edu.au.
International applicants typically need an English proficiency of IELTS 5.0–5.5 overall (or equivalent). Prior qualifications expected for Certificate III level generally include completion of Australian Year 10 or equivalent. Some students may enter via a foundation or pathway program—contact the provider for specific options. Meeting minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission; the provider assesses each application individually.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 5 weeks (32 hours per week, approximately 160 total hours). This industry placement or internship provides hands-on experience in a real early childhood setting, such as a childcare centre or preschool. Work-integrated learning is a core part of the program, allowing students to apply theory to practice, develop professional relationships, and meet training package requirements. The placement is arranged or approved by Bankstown Community College Inc. and supervised by qualified educators.
The course is delivered at two campuses in Sydney, New South Wales: - Bankstown Campus: Level 1, 457 Chapel Road, Bankstown NSW 2200. Bankstown is a vibrant suburb 22 km south-west of Sydney's CBD, with a large student population and affordable living costs. - City Campus: Level 1, 16-22 Wentworth Ave, Surry Hills NSW 2010. Surry Hills is close to Sydney's central business district, offering easy access to public transport, dining, and cultural attractions. Both locations are well-served by trains and buses, making commuting convenient for students.
International students studying this CRICOS-registered course on campus are eligible to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key considerations include: - Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement: Applicants must demonstrate genuine intent to stay temporarily for study. - Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC): Mandatory health insurance for the duration of the visa. - Financial capacity: Evidence of sufficient funds for tuition, living costs ($29,710/year for a single student as of 2026), OSHC, and travel. - Work rights: During term, students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight; unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Conditions are subject to visa rules. Always consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent for personal visa advice.
Follow these three steps to enrol in Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care at Bankstown Community College Inc.: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field, and city. Confirm that Bankstown Community College Inc. (CRICOS 03447M) offers this course. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit bcci.edu.au or contact their admissions team. Check entry requirements, English test scores, and application deadlines. Submit required documents (academic transcripts, English results, passport copy). 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa: Once accepted, the provider will issue a CoE. Use it to lodge a Subclass 500 visa application online. Prepare supporting documents and ensure you meet GTE and financial capacity requirements.
Sydney is Australia's largest city and a top destination for international students, with over 150,000 enrolled across its universities and colleges. With 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers nationally, Sydney alone hosts hundreds of institutions offering diverse courses. Living costs in Sydney are higher than other cities: weekly rent for a shared apartment ranges from A$250–$400, groceries about A$80–$150, and public transport A$40–$60 (though student concessions apply). The city's multicultural environment, job market, and world-class amenities make it appealing, but consider your budget carefully. Both Bankstown and Surry Hills campuses are well-connected by trains and buses, offering access to part-time work opportunities in retail, hospitality, and childcare centres.
Start your journey in early childhood education today—check your eligibility and apply to Bankstown Community College Inc.
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Bankstown Community College Inc.. 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.