Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 119666C) is a Certificate III delivered by Prospect Education Group Pty Ltd over 1 year. This AQF Level 3 qualification is designed for those entering the early childhood education field, preparing graduates to work in regulated children's education and care services in Australia. The course is registered on CRICOS (Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students), ensuring it meets the standards required for international student enrolment. Located in Melbourne, Victoria, this course offers a pathway to a rewarding career working with children aged 0-5 years. With a strong emphasis on practical skills and theoretical knowledge, students gain the competencies needed to support children's learning and development in a safe, inclusive environment. The course includes a work placement component, providing real-world experience in Australian early childhood settings. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, international students are protected by the ESOS Act, ensuring quality education and consumer rights. Australia offers over 26,000 courses across 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers, and this course is a popular choice for those seeking a hands-on qualification with strong employment outcomes.
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Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 119666C) is a Certificate III delivered by Prospect Education Group Pty Ltd over 1 year. This qualification is listed under the field of Teacher Education: Early Childhood (070101) at AQF Level 3. The course is designed to equip students with foundational skills in child development, health and safety, and educational program planning. Graduates are eligible to work as early childhood educators in long day care centres, family day care, and other regulated settings. The CRICOS registration (03962C for the provider) assures international students that the course meets Australian Government standards. Prospect Education Group is a private provider with campuses in Melbourne, offering a supportive learning environment for international students.
As a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care, this course covers core areas of early childhood education theory and practice. Students learn about child development from birth to five years, fostering children's learning through play, creating inclusive environments, and supporting children's health and safety. The curriculum also includes communication with families, cultural competence, and ethical practice. While specific unit outlines are determined by the provider, graduates at this level typically gain the ability to apply a range of technical and interpersonal skills in early childhood settings. This field of education (0701 - Teacher Education) prepares students for roles as educators and assistants in childcare centres, kindergartens, and preschools across Australia.
The course duration is 1 year (52 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English, and the course is a single qualification (not a dual or combined award). It is not classified as foundation studies. Students should expect full-time study commitment, typically comprising classes, self-study, and the work placement component. The provider may offer flexible scheduling, but the CRICOS duration is fixed to ensure compliance with student visa study requirements.
Tuition fees for this course are indicative at A$9,500, with non-tuition fees of A$1,000 (including materials, administration, etc.), giving an estimated total of A$10,500. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Please note: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the visa application charge are not included. Living expenses in Melbourne are approximately A$500–700 per week for rent, groceries, and transport. Always confirm current fees directly with Prospect Education Group Pty Ltd through their official website, as fees are subject to change. All listed providers are CRICOS-registered, and this is a free resource with no referral fees.
International students need to demonstrate English language proficiency, typically an IELTS overall score of 5.0–5.5 (or equivalent). Academic requirements include completion of Australian Year 10 or equivalent. Some providers may require prior study or experience in early childhood, but this is at the institution's discretion. Foundation or pathway options may be available for students who do not meet direct entry – refer to the provider's website for details. These are general guidelines; actual requirements are set by Prospect Education Group Pty Ltd. Always check the latest entry criteria before applying.
This course includes a mandatory work component: 4 weeks of industry placement at 40 hours per week, totalling approximately 160 hours. This work-integrated learning (WIL) involves hands-on experience in a regulated early childhood education setting, such as a long day care centre or kindergarten. Under supervision, students apply classroom knowledge to real-world situations, developing practical skills in child supervision, program implementation, and teamwork. Placements are arranged by the provider and must be completed to satisfy course requirements.
The course is delivered at two locations in Melbourne, Victoria: Level 8, 118 Queens St, Melbourne VIC 3000, and Swanston Institute, 364 Lonsdale St, Melbourne VIC 3000. Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city with over 200,000 international students and excellent public transport (trams, trains, buses). Both campuses are well-connected to the CBD. Studying in Melbourne offers access to a vibrant multicultural community, numerous early childhood services, and a strong job market for early childhood educators.
International students studying this course on a student visa (Subclass 500) 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. The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement applies – you must demonstrate a genuine intention to study in Australia. Financial capacity evidence is also required. For visa advice, 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 Prospect Education Group Pty Ltd:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Filter by course level (Certificate III), field (Education), and location (Melbourne). Use the CRICOS register to confirm registration status. HeadStart Academy helps you compare options.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check entry requirements, English language test scores, and application deadlines. Submit your application with required documents (academic transcripts, English test results, passport copy).
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, you'll receive a CoE from Prospect Education Group. Use it to apply for a visa through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds.
Melbourne is a top destination for early childhood education studies, with numerous CRICOS-registered providers offering Certificate III and Diploma qualifications. The city boasts a high quality of life, diverse culture, and strong demand for qualified early childhood educators. With over 1,500 CRICOS providers across Australia, Melbourne alone hosts many, making it a competitive but rewarding environment. Consider factors like campus location, support services, and industry connections when choosing. The city's cost of living is moderate compared to Sydney, with weekly expenses around A$500–700. Public transport is reliable, with trams and trains serving all major areas.
Ready to start your journey in early childhood education? Explore more Certificate III courses in Melbourne on HeadStart Academy, or apply directly to Prospect Education Group Pty Ltd. Remember to check CRICOS registration and visa requirements.
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Prospect Education Group 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.