Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 119637H) is a Certificate III delivered by Harbourside Institute of Australia Pty Ltd over 1 year. This qualification prepares you to work in early childhood education and care services, supporting children's development and learning from birth to five years. The field of education is Teacher Education: Early Childhood (070101), and the course aligns with the national CHC30125 training package. It includes a work component of 20 weeks with approximately 8 total hours of industry placement, giving you real-world experience in an approved early childhood setting. The course is delivered at two locations in Sydney, NSW: Harris Street, Ultimo and Shop 118, 243 Pyrmont Street, Pyrmont. Indicative total fees are A$16,800 (tuition A$16,000 plus non-tuition A$800). As a CRICOS-registered course (119637H) at a CRICOS-registered provider (Harbourside Institute of Australia Pty Ltd, CRICOS 03670D), it meets Australian Government standards for international students. International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) and satisfy Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) requirements. The course is delivered in English, and typical entry requires IELTS 5.0-5.5 overall.
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Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS 119637H) is a one-year program at Harbourside Institute of Australia Pty Ltd. As a Certificate III (AQF Level 3), it provides foundational knowledge and skills for educators working in early childhood settings. The course covers child development, health and safety, play-based learning, and working with families. It is a single qualification (no dual or foundation studies) and includes a mandatory work placement component. The course is delivered full-time over 52 weeks, with instruction in English. Harbourside Institute of Australia Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03670D) is a private provider based in Sydney, offering a supportive environment for international students. All CRICOS-registered courses are protected by the ESOS Act, ensuring quality education and student rights. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses to international students, so you can trust that this course meets rigorous standards.
This course sits within the field of Teacher Education: Early Childhood (070101). Graduates learn to support the wellbeing, development, and learning of children from birth to five years. Typical learning outcomes include understanding child development stages, planning and implementing play-based learning activities, maintaining health and safety standards, and building positive relationships with children and families. The curriculum follows the national VET training package CHC30125, which is designed to meet industry requirements for early childhood educators. While specific unit details are set by the provider, students can expect a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills. The course is delivered in a classroom setting with simulated environments and real-world placements.
The course runs for 1 year (52 weeks) as per the CRICOS register. It is a full-time program delivered in English. There is no dual qualification or foundation studies component. The mode of instruction is on-campus at the provider's delivery locations. This duration is typical for Certificate III level courses in Australia, allowing international students to complete the qualification within the standard student visa timeframe. The course starts at various intake dates throughout the year — contact Harbourside Institute directly for upcoming start dates.
The indicative fees for Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care at Harbourside Institute of Australia Pty Ltd are as follows:
Please note that these fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are indicative only. Fees are set by the institution and subject to change. The following costs are NOT included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (accommodation, food, transport), and the visa application charge for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Always confirm the current fees with Harbourside Institute of Australia Pty Ltd directly via their website at www.harbourside.nsw.edu.au before applying.
International students must meet the following entry requirements for this course:
These are general guidelines — specific entry requirements are set by the provider. Always confirm directly with Harbourside Institute of Australia Pty Ltd.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 20 weeks, with approximately 8 total hours of industry placement. This work-integrated learning (WIL) component typically takes the form of an industry placement in an approved early childhood education setting, such as a childcare centre or preschool. During the placement, you will work under supervision, applying the skills learned in class to real-world situations. This practical experience is essential for developing competence as an early childhood educator and fulfilling the requirements of the CHC30125 training package. Placement hours are structured across the duration of the course, and the provider will assist in arranging suitable host organisations. Note that the exact hours per week may vary — check with Harbourside Institute for details.
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care is delivered at two locations in Sydney, New South Wales:
1. Harris Street — ULTIMO, NSW 2. Shop 118 243 Pyrmont St PYRMONT NSW 2009 — PYRMONT, NSW
Both campuses are located in Sydney's inner city, close to public transport options including trains, buses, and light rail. Ultimo and Pyrmont are vibrant areas with easy access to amenities, making them convenient for international students. Sydney has a large student population and many CRICOS-registered providers, especially in the education field. Living costs in Sydney are higher than other Australian cities — indicative weekly expenses are around A$200-$450 for rent (share accommodation), A$80-$150 for groceries, and A$40-$60 for public transport. These figures are a guide only.
International students studying this course must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key visa conditions include:
While this course is CRICOS-registered and meets visa requirements, HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice. For visa applications, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit the Department of Home Affairs. Remember, as a CRICOS-registered course, you are protected by the ESOS Act, which safeguards your tuition fees and ensures quality education.
New South Wales, particularly Sydney, is a popular destination for international students studying early childhood education. The state has over 400 CRICOS-registered providers offering courses in education, many in the early childhood field. Sydney offers a multicultural environment, excellent public transport, and a range of childcare centres for practical placements. The demand for qualified early childhood educators in Australia is strong, with career opportunities in childcare centres, preschools, and early learning centres. Studying in NSW also gives you access to professional networks and industry events. However, consider the higher cost of living in Sydney compared to other Australian cities. If you prefer a more affordable option, regional areas in NSW also have CRICOS-registered providers for this qualification.
Follow these three steps to apply for Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care at Harbourside Institute of Australia Pty Ltd:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use HeadStart Academy or the official CRICOS register to confirm that Harbourside Institute of Australia Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03670D) is registered and check the course details. 2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution**: Contact Harbourside Institute to obtain the application form, submit your academic transcripts and English test results (IELTS 5.0-5.5 overall), and meet any additional requirements (e.g., Working with Children Check). Ensure you apply before the intake deadline. 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)**: Once accepted, the provider will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for your Student visa online via the Department of Home Affairs. Do not forget to arrange OSHC and prepare your GTE statement.
Ready to start your journey? Contact Harbourside Institute of Australia Pty Ltd today to apply.
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Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Harbourside Institute of Australia 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.