Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 119781M) is a Certificate III delivered by Australian College of Community and Health Services Pty Ltd over 1 year. This qualification is designed for individuals who want to work in early childhood education settings, such as childcare centres, kindergartens, and family day care. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment. With Australia's growing demand for qualified early childhood educators, this course opens pathways to rewarding careers supporting children's development. HeadStart Academy provides this page as a free resource to help you understand the course structure, fees, and entry requirements — always confirm details directly with the provider.
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 119781M) is a 1-year Certificate III level qualification (AQF Level 3) offered by Australian College of Community and Health Services Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03687F). This course falls under the field of Teacher Education: Early Childhood (070101), preparing students to support children's learning and development from birth to school age. Graduates are equipped with practical skills in planning educational activities, fostering inclusive environments, and ensuring children's safety and wellbeing. The course includes a work component of 8 weeks (160 hours) of industry placement, giving students real-world experience. All Australian College of Community and Health Services Pty Ltd programs are CRICOS-registered, meaning international students are protected under the ESOS Act and can access student visa pathways.
While specific subjects are set by the provider, this Certificate III typically covers foundational knowledge in early childhood development, health and safety, play-based learning, and communicating with families. Students learn to design and implement educational programs, observe children's progress, and work within legal and ethical frameworks. The course also emphasises cultural competency and inclusive practices, reflecting Australia's diverse society. At this AQF Level 3, graduates gain practical skills for direct employment in children's services under supervision. For a detailed syllabus, refer to Australian College of Community and Health Services Pty Ltd.
The course is scheduled for 52 weeks (1 year) on the CRICOS register. Instruction is in English, and it is a single qualification (no dual or foundation studies). Delivery is full-time, typically involving classroom-based learning combined with practical placement. International students should ensure they maintain full-time enrolment to comply with student visa conditions.
Tuition fees for Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care are A$8,000, with non-tuition fees of A$2,000, bringing the estimated total to A$10,000. These fees are indicative and sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Additional costs include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge — these are not included in the course fees. For current fees and any updates, visit the provider's website at www.acchs.edu.au. Always confirm fees directly with Australian College of Community and Health Services Pty Ltd before applying.
International students typically need an IELTS score of 5.0-5.5 overall (or equivalent) for this Certificate III level. Prior qualifications expected include completion of Australian Year 10 or equivalent. Some providers may require a police check or working with children check due to the nature of early childhood work. Foundation or pathway programs are not offered as part of this course; however, applicants who do not meet English requirements should contact Australian College of Community and Health Services Pty Ltd for options. Always check the provider's specific entry requirements when applying.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 8 weeks at 20 hours per week (approximately 160 total hours). This practical placement takes place in an early childhood education setting such as a childcare centre or preschool. It is an integral part of the learning experience, allowing students to apply classroom knowledge under supervision. Industry placements also help students build professional networks and gain confidence working with children, families, and educators.
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care is delivered at Parramatta Campus Main, Suite 107 30 Cowper St, PARRAMATTA NSW 2150. Parramatta is a major commercial hub in Greater Western Sydney, home to a large student population and excellent public transport connections to the Sydney CBD and surrounding suburbs. With many CRICOS-registered providers in Parramatta, the area offers a vibrant multicultural student community. Living costs in Parramatta are generally lower than Sydney city; indicative weekly costs: rent A$250-350, groceries A$80-120, transport A$30-50.
International students enrolling in this course must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). To obtain a student visa, you need: a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from a CRICOS-registered provider, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay, and evidence of financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while their course is in session and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. You must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, demonstrating your intention to stay temporarily for study. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; for visa advice, consult a MARA-registered agent or visit the Department of Home Affairs.
Parramatta offers a dynamic environment for international students, with a wide range of accommodation, dining, and entertainment options. Its proximity to Sydney's CBD (about 30 minutes by train) makes it ideal for those seeking urban amenities without the high cost of living. The area has over 20 CRICOS-registered providers offering courses across all levels. For early childhood education students, Parramatta has numerous childcare centres and preschools for placement opportunities. Consider your lifestyle preferences: do you prefer a bustling city centre or a quieter suburban area? Parramatta strikes a balance, with parks, riverside walks, and a growing student community.
Applying for Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care at Australian College of Community and Health Services Pty Ltd is straightforward. Follow these three steps:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy's filters to find courses by level, field, and location. Verify that Australian College of Community and Health Services Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03687F) is registered to enrol international students.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check entry requirements (English test scores, prior qualifications) and application deadlines. Submit your application to Australian College of Community and Health Services Pty Ltd via their website www.acchs.edu.au.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, you'll receive a CoE. Use this to apply for your visa, ensuring you have OSHC and evidence of funds. Always refer to the Department of Home Affairs for the latest visa requirements.
Ready to start your early childhood education journey? Explore more Certificate III courses in Parramatta or apply directly to Australian College of Community and Health Services Pty Ltd today.
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Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Australian College of Community and Health Services 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.