Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 119668A) is a Certificate III delivered by AUSTRALIAN INSTITUTE OF DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY PTY LTD over 1 year. This nationally recognised qualification (CHC30125) prepares international students to work as educators in early childhood settings, from daycare centres to preschools. Delivered at the provider's Melbourne CBD campus, the course combines theoretical knowledge with practical work placement. All listed providers are CRICOS-registered with the Australian Government, ensuring you study with a trusted institution. As of April 2026, Australia has 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers offering 26,433 courses — this course is one of many options for aspiring educators.
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Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 119668A) is a Certificate III (AQF Level 3) qualification from AUSTRALIAN INSTITUTE OF DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY PTY LTD (CRICOS 03983J). This private provider, based in Melbourne, delivers the course over 52 weeks of full-time study. The program sits within the field of education (07 - Education, 0701 - Teacher Education, 070101 - Teacher Education: Early Childhood) and is designed for those who want to work with children aged 0–5 in regulated early childhood services. Graduates gain skills in supporting children's learning, development, and wellbeing, and may progress to a Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care. CRICOS registration is your key trust signal — only registered providers can enrol international students, and ESOS Act protections apply to every course.
This Certificate III covers the core competencies required to work in early childhood education. Students learn how to support children's play and learning, ensure health and safety, foster positive relationships, and work within legal and ethical frameworks. The field of education focuses on teaching and curriculum development, and at this level graduates are prepared to work as assistant educators under supervision. While the specific syllabus is set by AUSTRALIAN INSTITUTE OF DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY PTY LTD, typical topics include child development, cultural competence, first aid, and communication with families. Practical placement gives you real-world experience in Melbourne's early childhood centres.
The course runs for 1 year (52 weeks on the CRICOS register) with full-time study in English. It is a single qualification (no dual award) and does not include foundation studies. Students attend classes at the Melbourne CBD campus, with a combination of in-person and possibly online delivery (confirm with the provider). The language of instruction is English, and the course is designed to meet the requirements of the National Quality Framework. International students must maintain satisfactory course attendance and progress to comply with their student visa conditions.
Tuition fees are indicative at A$12,000, with non-tuition fees of A$2,000, bringing the estimated total to A$14,000. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and may change. Always confirm current fees directly with AUSTRALIAN INSTITUTE OF DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY PTY LTD at https://aidt.edu.au/. Additional costs include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge. For example, a single student in Melbourne should budget around A$500–600 per week for rent, groceries, and transport. Living costs are not included in the course fees.
International applicants typically need an IELTS score of 5.0–5.5 overall (or equivalent) for entry to a Certificate III. You should also have completed Year 12 or equivalent; prior qualifications in education or childcare are beneficial but not required. Foundation or pathway programs may be available if you need to strengthen your English or academic skills — contact the provider for details. Note that entry requirements are set by AUSTRALIAN INSTITUTE OF DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY PTY LTD and may vary. Meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission. Always check with the institution and consult a registered migration agent for visa-specific advice.
Yes — this course includes a mandatory work placement of 4 weeks at 40 hours per week (approximately 160 total hours). Work-integrated learning is a core part of the Certificate III, giving you hands-on experience in early childhood settings such as long day care centres or preschools. The placement allows you to apply classroom theory under supervision, develop professional relationships, and build a portfolio for future employment. Placements are typically arranged by the provider, but you may need to meet certain prerequisites (e.g., working with children check). This practical component is essential for meeting the National Quality Framework requirements.
The course is delivered at the CBD Campus in Melbourne, Victoria. Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city and a top study destination, with over 150,000 international students and more than 50 CRICOS-registered providers in the city alone. The campus is likely well-served by public transport (trams, trains, buses), and the surrounding area offers a vibrant student lifestyle. Living costs in Melbourne are slightly higher than the national average, but students can find affordable accommodation in suburbs near the CBD. When choosing a location, consider proximity to your placement centre and access to libraries, cafes, and student support services.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. Key conditions include: maintaining enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, meeting attendance, and having sufficient financial capacity. From July 2023, student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. You will also need to obtain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement means you must demonstrate a genuine intention to study in Australia. 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 AUSTRALIAN INSTITUTE OF DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY PTY LTD:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use the CRICOS register to verify that the course (code 119668A) and provider (03983J) are listed. Compare course duration, fees, and location to find the right fit for your goals.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Submit your application to AUSTRALIAN INSTITUTE OF DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY PTY LTD, along with required documents such as academic transcripts, English test results (e.g., IELTS), and a copy of your passport. Check application deadlines and any additional requirements (e.g., a working with children check for placements).
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** – Once accepted, the provider will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have adequate health cover (OSHC) and funds for tuition and living costs.
Ready to start your early childhood career in Australia? Visit AUSTRALIAN INSTITUTE OF DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY PTY LTD's website for current fees and how to apply.
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Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at AUSTRALIAN INSTITUTE OF DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY 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.