Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 119693M) is a Certificate III delivered by Imperial Institute QLD Pty Ltd over 1 year. This course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS), ensuring it meets Australian Government quality standards for international students. The qualification, with VET national code CHC30125, prepares students to work in early childhood education settings, supporting children's development and learning. As a CRICOS-registered provider (CRICOS 04359C), Imperial Institute QLD Pty Ltd offers this course at its campuses in Cairns and Brisbane, giving international students flexibility in choosing their study location. Whether you're drawn to the tropical lifestyle of Cairns or the vibrant city life of Brisbane, this course provides a pathway to a rewarding career in early childhood education. Prospective students should note that all CRICOS-registered courses are protected under the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act, which safeguards tuition fees and ensures quality education.
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 119693M) is a Certificate III (AQF Level 3) delivered by Imperial Institute QLD Pty Ltd (CRICOS 04359C) over 1 year (52 weeks). This qualification falls under the field of education 070101 - Teacher Education: Early Childhood, providing foundational knowledge and skills to support children aged 0-5 years in educational settings. As a VET course with national code CHC30125, it is nationally recognized and aligns with Australian early childhood industry standards. Imperial Institute QLD Pty Ltd is a private provider registered on CRICOS, which is the official Australian Government register that all institutions enrolling international students must be listed on. The course does not offer a dual qualification or foundation studies option. The language of instruction is English, and there is a mandatory work component of 8 weeks (approximately 160 hours). All CRICOS-registered courses like this one are subject to the ESOS Act, giving international students legal protections including tuition fee safeguards and access to complaint handling mechanisms.
This course is in the field of Teacher Education: Early Childhood, focusing on the knowledge and skills needed to work effectively with young children. Students learn how to create safe, inclusive, and engaging learning environments that promote children's developmental outcomes. Typical topics include supporting children's social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development, planning and implementing play-based learning activities, and maintaining health and safety standards. Students also develop skills in communicating with families and communities, and understanding legal and ethical frameworks in early childhood education. While specific syllabus details are set by the provider, graduates of Certificate III level courses in early childhood are equipped to work as early childhood educators in childcare centers, kindergartens, and preschools. The course includes both theoretical and practical components, ensuring graduates are work-ready.
The Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care is a 1-year program, comprising 52 weeks of study as registered on CRICOS. The language of instruction is English, and the course is offered as a single qualification (no dual qualification). The study mode is typically full-time, with face-to-face classes and practical placements. As a Certificate III level course, it requires approximately 20-25 hours of study per week, including classroom sessions and self-directed learning. Students should be prepared for a structured timetable that balances theory with hands-on experience. The 52-week duration includes scheduled breaks as per the academic calendar. It is important to note that this duration meets student visa requirements for full-time study.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$12,500, with non-tuition fees listed as A$0, bringing the estimated total to A$12,500. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by Imperial Institute QLD Pty Ltd. Note that fees are subject to change, and prospective students should always confirm current charges directly with the provider. In addition to tuition, international students must budget for Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which costs approximately A$600 per year for a single student, and living expenses. The Australian Government recommends a living cost budget of about A$24,505 per year for a single student (as of 2026), though this varies by city. For example, Brisbane’s weekly rent averages A$300–$400, while Cairns is more affordable at A$250–$350. Other costs include groceries, transport, and personal expenses, plus the student visa application fee of A$1,600. HeadStart Academy does not guarantee fee amounts; always check with the provider.
International students must meet English language proficiency and academic entry requirements. For this course, the indicative English requirement is IELTS 5.0–5.5 overall (or equivalent such as TOEFL or PTE). Academic requirements typically include completion of Year 10 or equivalent, though some providers may accept students with relevant work experience. If you do not meet these requirements, Imperial Institute QLD Pty Ltd may offer pathway options such as foundation studies or English language courses—contact the provider for details. All entry requirements are set by the institution and should be verified directly. Note that meeting minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as places may be competitive.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 8 weeks, totaling approximately 160 hours. This is a structured industry placement in an early childhood education setting, such as a childcare center or kindergarten. The work-integrated learning component allows students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world environments under professional supervision. It is an integral part of the course, helping students develop practical skills and gain workplace experience essential for employment. Students are responsible for arranging their own placement, though the provider may offer assistance. The placement hours count towards the total course duration and are scheduled during the study period.
Imperial Institute QLD Pty Ltd delivers this course at two campuses: Cairns Campus located at 30 Minnie Street, Cairns City QLD 4870, and Brisbane Campus at Level 3, 97 Creek Street, Brisbane City QLD 4000. Cairns is a regional city in Far North Queensland known for its tropical climate and proximity to the Great Barrier Reef. It has a smaller international student population, offering a quieter study environment with lower cost of living (weekly rent approx. $250–$350). Brisbane, the state capital, is a major education hub with over 80,000 international students and excellent public transport. Both campuses are accessible by bus and train, and offer modern facilities. When choosing a location, consider your lifestyle preferences and budget.
International students need a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. Key requirements include: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Imperial Institute QLD Pty Ltd, genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criteria, sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and health insurance. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks. OSHC must be maintained for the entire visa duration. The ESOS Act protects international students, including tuition fee refunds if the provider fails to deliver. For detailed visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit the Department of Home Affairs website. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Ready to enrol? Contact Imperial Institute QLD Pty Ltd directly at their website for the latest fees and intake dates. Explore more early childhood courses on HeadStart Academy to compare your options.
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Imperial Institute QLD 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.