Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 119662G) is a Certificate III delivered by Penfold College Pty Ltd over 1 year. This qualification is designed for those seeking to work in early childhood education settings, such as childcare centers or preschools, under supervision. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 03946C), it meets Australian Government standards for international students. The course covers core units in child development, health and safety, and inclusive practices. Located in Melbourne's CBD at Level 3, 123 Lonsdale Street, students benefit from access to a vibrant city with over 150,000 international students. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), ensuring accuracy. HeadStart Academy is a free resource with no referral fees, helping you navigate Australia's 26,433 courses across 1,556 providers.
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Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 119662G) is a Certificate III (AQF Level 3) offered by Penfold College Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03946C), a private provider. The course falls under the field of Education: Early Childhood, with VET national code CHC30125. It is a single qualification (no dual award) and does not include foundation studies. The program runs for 52 weeks (1 year), with English as the language of instruction. A key feature is the embedded work component: 4 weeks of industry placement at 40 hours per week (approximately 160 total hours), giving students practical experience in real early childhood settings. As a CRICOS-registered course, it is covered by the ESOS Act, providing legal protections for international students. Tuition fees are indicative at A$15,000, with non-tuition fees of A$2,000 (total A$17,000). However, these fees are set by the provider and subject to change—always confirm directly with Penfold College.
This Certificate III focuses on early childhood education and care, preparing graduates to support children's learning and development in a range of settings. The curriculum typically includes units on promoting child health and safety, supporting play and learning, working with diverse families, and maintaining a safe environment. Students learn to support children's emotional and social wellbeing, plan age-appropriate activities, and comply with regulations such as the National Quality Framework. The qualification aligns with industry needs, and graduates may pursue roles as early childhood educators or assistants. It also provides a pathway to further study, such as a Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care. Note: This is a general overview; the specific syllabus is determined by Penfold College and can be obtained from their website.
The course duration is 1 year (52 weeks) as listed on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English, and the program is delivered as a single qualification (no dual qualification). The study mode is typically face-to-face at the Melbourne campus, with a significant practical component. Students should expect a mix of classroom learning and supervised work placement. Full-time study is required to maintain student visa conditions, with a minimum of 20 scheduled contact hours per week (including placement). This structure ensures compliance with student visa (Subclass 500) requirements, which mandate that international students be enrolled in a full-time CRICOS-registered course.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$15,000, with additional non-tuition fees of A$2,000, bringing the estimated total to A$17,000. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change by Penfold College Pty Ltd at any time. Please note: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the student visa application charge are not included. For a single student, OSHC costs approximately A$600–A$700 per year, and living costs in Melbourne are estimated at A$21,041 per year (Department of Home Affairs guideline). Always check the provider's website (Penfold College) for the most current fee schedule before applying.
International students must meet academic and English language requirements. The indicative English requirement for this course is IELTS 5.0–5.5 overall (or equivalent), as this is a Certificate III level qualification. Students are expected to have completed Australian Year 10 or equivalent overseas. Penfold College may also have specific prerequisites, such as a police check or working with children clearance for the work placement component. If you do not meet the English level, consider pathway options like ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students) offered by many CRICOS-registered providers. Foundation studies may also be available. Always refer to Penfold College's entry requirements on their official website, as these are set by the institution.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 4 weeks, 40 hours per week (approximately 160 total hours). This industry placement provides hands-on experience in a licensed early childhood education setting, such as a childcare centre or preschool. Under supervision, students will apply their learning in real-world scenarios, developing practical skills in caring for children, planning activities, and working with families. The placement is an integral part of the qualification and is assessed by the provider. International students should ensure their student visa allows for work-integrated learning as part of their course. This component also helps students build professional networks and enhances employability upon graduation.
The course is delivered at Level 3, 123 Lonsdale Street, MELBOURNE VIC 3000. This campus is in the heart of Melbourne's central business district, within walking distance of Flinders Street Station and other public transport hubs. Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city, home to over 150,000 international students from 150+ countries. The city offers a multicultural environment, extensive public transport (trams, trains, buses), and a relatively lower cost of living compared to Sydney. Indicative weekly living costs in Melbourne: rent A$250–A$400 (shared accommodation), groceries A$80–A$150, and transport A$50–A$70. As a major education hub, Melbourne has over 50 CRICOS-registered providers offering early childhood education courses. The central location provides easy access to childcare centres for work placements.
To study this course as an international student, you need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criterion, sufficient financial capacity (tuition + living costs + OSHC), and enrolment in a full-time CRICOS-registered course. With this visa, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). You must maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. Also, the ESOS Act protects your rights, including access to the Tuition Protection Service. For visa applications, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care at Penfold College Pty Ltd:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level (Certificate III), field (Education), and location (Melbourne, VIC). Ensure the provider (Penfold College, CRICOS 03946C) is registered.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit Penfold College's official website to review entry requirements, English language test scores, and application deadlines. Submit your application with required documents (academic transcripts, English test results, passport). If accepted, you will receive an Offer Letter.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): After accepting the offer and paying fees, you get a CoE. Then apply online for the student visa through ImmiAccount, providing the CoE, evidence of funds, OSHC, and GTE statement. Visa processing times vary; apply early.
Melbourne is an excellent city for international students pursuing Early Childhood Education. It has a strong demand for qualified educators, with many childcare centres and kindergartens. The city's multicultural environment enriches learning, and there are numerous networking opportunities through industry events and student associations. Public transport is student-friendly (concession fares available). While living costs are moderate, careful budgeting is advised. Students can also enjoy Melbourne's culture, food, and outdoor spaces. However, consider that competition for work placements may be high due to the number of providers. Overall, Melbourne offers a balanced study experience with strong job prospects post-graduation.
Ready to start your journey in early childhood education? Contact Penfold College directly to apply for Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (119662G).
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Penfold 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.