Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 119664E) is a Certificate III delivered by Starford College Pty Ltd over 1 year. This qualification is designed for individuals who wish to work in early childhood education settings, such as childcare centres, preschools, and family day care. As an AQF Level 3 course, it provides foundational knowledge and practical skills in child development, safety, and program planning. Starford College is a CRICOS-registered provider (CRICOS 03957M), ensuring international students receive quality education under Australian standards. Located in the heart of Sydney's CBD, this course offers convenient access to vibrant city life and numerous student amenities. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and this qualification is a popular choice for those seeking a rewarding career in early childhood education. All data on this page is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026, making it a reliable resource for your study abroad decisions.
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS 119664E) is a 1-year (52-week) program at Starford College Pty Ltd. This vocational course falls under the field of Education (07 - Education) and focuses on Teacher Education: Early Childhood (070101). It is a single qualification, not a dual or combined course, and does not include a foundation studies component. The course is delivered entirely in English, preparing international students for work in Australian early childhood settings. Graduates gain skills to support children's learning and development, plan activities, and maintain safe environments. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards for international students, and all students are protected under the ESOS Act. HeadStart Academy presents this information as a free resource, with no referral fees or commissions.
This Certificate III program provides an introduction to early childhood education principles. Students learn about child development from birth to school age, including physical, cognitive, social, and emotional growth. Practical topics include designing play-based learning experiences, ensuring children's health and safety, building relationships with families, and working effectively in a team. The course aligns with the national competency standards for early childhood educators in Australia. While the exact syllabus is set by Starford College, typical learning outcomes involve understanding legal and ethical frameworks, cultural competence, and inclusive practices. Graduates are equipped to take on roles such as early childhood educator, assist in kindergarten programs, or pursue further study in Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care. The field of education is vital in Australia, with a growing demand for qualified early childhood professionals.
The course duration is 1 year (52 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. It is a full-time program delivered in English. There is no dual qualification or work component included. Students are expected to attend classes and complete assessments on campus. The language of instruction is English, so applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through tests like IELTS. The provider, Starford College, may offer face-to-face classes at their Sydney location. As a single qualification, students focus exclusively on this Certificate III without additional certifications. This structure allows for concentrated learning and timely completion, making it ideal for international students planning to enter the workforce or continue their studies in Australia.
The indicative tuition fee for Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care at Starford College Pty Ltd is A$18,000. Non-tuition fees amount to A$1,000, giving an estimated total of A$19,000. Please note: these fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Always confirm current fees directly with the provider. The total does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. For a single student, OSHC typically costs around A$500-$700 per year. Living expenses in Sydney are estimated at A$30,000-$35,000 annually, covering rent, groceries, transport, and personal costs. Sydney has over 130 CRICOS-registered providers, and living costs are higher than the national average. For fee updates, visit the Starford College website.
General entry requirements for Certificate III courses typically include completion of Year 12 or equivalent. For international students, English language proficiency is required, with an IELTS overall score of 5.0 to 5.5 (or equivalent). Starford College may have specific prerequisites such as a minimum age of 18. Foundation or pathway options may be available if you do not meet direct entry; check with the provider. As a CRICOS-registered course, the provider assesses academic documents and English test results. It is recommended to have a Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement ready for your visa application. Entry requirements are set by the institution and may vary. HeadStart Academy does not guarantee admission; always verify with Starford College.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. According to the CRICOS register, there is no work placement or internship specified. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Work rights are separate from the course itself. Students should not rely on work to fund their studies; financial capacity must be demonstrated for the visa. For more information on student work rights, refer to the Department of Home Affairs.
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care is delivered at Suite 1, level 7, 280-282 Pitt St, Sydney NSW 2000. This is in the central business district of Sydney, Australia's largest city. Sydney is home to over 200,000 international students and more than 130 CRICOS-registered providers. The campus is accessible via public transport, including trains, buses, and light rail. Living costs in Sydney are higher than in other Australian cities; indicative weekly costs are rent A$350-$600, groceries A$80-$150, and transport A$40-$60. The location offers proximity to educational resources, libraries, and cultural attractions. Studying in Sydney provides a vibrant urban lifestyle alongside quality education.
International students enrolling in this course require a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key conditions include: enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, genuine temporary entrant (GTE) requirement, adequate health insurance (OSHC), and sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. On a Student visa, holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during course sessions and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Family members may accompany with a Student Guardian visa (Subclass 590). All international students are protected by the ESOS Act, ensuring education quality and consumer rights. For visa application details, consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent (MARA). HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice.
Ready to enrol in Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care at Starford College Pty Ltd? Follow these three steps:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and location. Confirm the course code (119664E) and provider details.
2. Apply directly to Starford College: Submit an application with your academic transcripts, English test results (e.g., IELTS 5.0-5.5), and any required documents. Check application deadlines and entry requirements on their website.
3. Receive your CoE and apply for a Student visa: If accepted, you will receive a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Include OSHC, GTE statement, and proof of finances. Start your Australian study journey today!
Start your journey in early childhood education. Apply now through HeadStart Academy.
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Starford 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.