Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 119659B) is a Certificate III delivered by Shafston International Pty Ltd over 1 year 1 month (~56 weeks). This nationally recognised qualification (CHC30125) prepares international students for a rewarding career in early childhood education, focusing on child development, safety, and learning through play. Shafston International is a CRICOS-registered private provider (CRICOS 03917H) with campuses in Kangaroo Point (Brisbane) and Southport (Gold Coast), both popular study destinations with strong infrastructure for international students. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, this program is protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring quality education and student rights. Whether you aim to work in childcare centres or kindergartens, this course provides the foundational skills and practical experience needed in the Australian early childhood sector.
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Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 119659B) is a Certificate III (AQF Level 3) qualification delivered by Shafston International Pty Ltd. The course runs for 1 year 1 month (~56 weeks) and is taught in English. It is a single qualification with an embedded work component of 16 weeks (10 hours per week, totaling ~160 hours). The course falls under the field of education: Teacher Education: Early Childhood (070101). This program is designed to equip international students with the skills to support children's learning, development, and wellbeing in early childhood settings. Upon completion, graduates may pursue roles such as early childhood educator or assistant, with pathways to further study at Diploma level. Shafston International is one of over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers in Australia, offering more than 26,000 courses to international students.
As a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care student, you will explore key concepts in early childhood development, including how children learn through play, how to create safe and inclusive environments, and how to support children's social and emotional growth. The curriculum covers child health and safety, cultural competence, and effective communication with families and colleagues. You will also learn about regulatory frameworks such as the National Quality Framework (NQF) and the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF). While specific unit details are set by the provider, this level of study emphasizes practical skills and theoretical knowledge aligned with Australian industry standards. Graduates typically demonstrate competency in planning and implementing activities, observing and recording children's progress, and collaborating with families and communities.
The course duration is 1 year 1 month (~56 weeks) as per the CRICOS register. It is offered on a full-time basis with instruction in English. This is a single qualification (not part of a dual award or foundation studies program). Students are expected to attend classes and complete supervised work placements. The standard study load for an international student holding a Subclass 500 visa is 20 hours per week of scheduled contact hours, though this may vary. The course is designed to be completed within the stated duration, with scheduled breaks aligning with academic calendars. Shafston International provides a supportive learning environment with access to academic resources and student services.
The indicative tuition fee for Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care is A$10,000, with non-tuition fees of A$300, bringing the estimated total to A$10,300. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as of April 2026 and are subject to change. Fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory for international students (typically A$600–$800 per year for single cover), living expenses (indicative weekly rent in Brisbane/Gold Coast: A$200–$350, groceries: A$80–$150, transport: A$30–$50), or the Student visa application fee (currently A$1,600 as of 2025). Always confirm current fees directly with Shafston International before applying.
For Certificate III level, applicants typically need to have completed Year 12 or equivalent in their home country. English language proficiency is required, with an IELTS overall score of 5.0–5.5 (or equivalent) being the common benchmark for this level. Some providers may also accept previous study in English or alternative tests like TOEFL or PTE. There are no specific subject prerequisites, but a genuine interest in working with children is essential. If you do not meet the English requirements, Shafston International may offer pathway options such as English language courses (ELICOS) before commencing the qualification. Always check the provider's website for the most current entry criteria.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 16 weeks, with students required to complete approximately 10 hours per week of supervised work placement (totaling around 160 hours). This work-integrated learning is typically undertaken in early childhood education settings such as childcare centers, kindergartens, or preschools. The placement provides hands-on experience in planning activities, interacting with children, and supporting daily routines under the guidance of qualified educators. It is an integral part of the qualification, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world environments and meet the vocational requirements for graduation. International students must ensure their visa conditions allow for the work component; the Subclass 500 visa permits unlimited work hours when the placement is part of the course.
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care is delivered at three locations: (1) 46 Thorn Street, Kangaroo Point QLD 4169 – in the inner Brisbane suburb of Kangaroo Point, close to the CBD with excellent public transport via bus and ferry; (2) 72 Nerang Street, Southport QLD 4215 – on the Gold Coast, a major international student hub with a vibrant lifestyle; (3) Shafston Gold Coast (same address as Southport). Both Brisbane and the Gold Coast offer diverse student communities, part-time job opportunities, and moderate living costs compared to Sydney or Melbourne. Brisbane has over 200 CRICOS-registered providers, while the Gold Coast has around 100, making these cities rich in educational resources.
International students enrolling in this course must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to study full-time at a CRICOS-registered institution and work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods, with unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). Key requirements include demonstrating genuine temporary entrant (GTE) intent, maintaining adequate health insurance (OSHC), and proving financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs (A$21,041 per year as per Department of Home Affairs), and travel. The ESOS Act protects your rights, including access to refund policies and academic grievance procedures. Always consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered MARA agent for personalised advice, as HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care at Shafston International Pty Ltd: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy's directory to filter by course level (Certificate III), field (Early Childhood Education), and location (Queensland). Verify that Shafston International (CRICOS 03917H) meets your preferences. 2. Apply directly to Shafston International: Visit their website or contact their admissions team. Prepare your academic transcripts, English language test results (IELTS 5.0-5.5), and any other required documents. Check application deadlines – many institutions have rolling intakes. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, Shafston will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application online via ImmiAccount. Ensure you have OSHC arranged and evidence of funds. Allow several weeks for visa processing.
Queensland is a top choice for international students pursuing early childhood education, with its warm climate, affordable living, and strong job market. Brisbane, the state capital, is home to over 90,000 international students and offers a mix of urban and suburban campuses. The Gold Coast, known for its beaches and tourism industry, also has a growing early childhood sector. Living costs in Brisbane are approximately 15-20% lower than in Sydney, while the Gold Coast is slightly cheaper than Brisbane. Both cities have excellent public transport, with Brisbane's TransLink network and Gold Coast's light rail and buses connecting campuses to student accommodation. The early childhood education sector in Australia is projected to grow, with qualified educators in demand. Studying in Queensland gives you access to a diverse range of childcare providers for work placements, enhancing your practical experience.
Ready to start your early childhood education journey? Explore your options today and take the first step towards a rewarding career in Australia.
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Shafston International 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.