Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 119782K) is a Certificate III delivered by Stirling Institute of Australia Pty Ltd over 1 year. This qualification is registered on the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF Level 3) and is designed for international students who want to work in early childhood education settings. Graduates develop skills to support children's learning and development, plan activities, and maintain safe environments. This course is a single qualification with no work component, delivered entirely in English at the Stirling Institute campus in Southbank, Victoria. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets the standards required for international student enrolment under the ESOS Act. The indicative tuition fee is A$11,750, with additional non-tuition fees of A$400, making an estimated total of A$12,150. Note that this does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or visa application costs. Entry typically requires an IELTS score of 5.0–5.5 or equivalent. This page provides comprehensive information about the course structure, fees, entry requirements, and how to apply, sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026. Use this guide to determine if this course aligns with your study plans in Australia.
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 119782K) is a Certificate III delivered by Stirling Institute of Australia Pty Ltd over 1 year. This provider is a private institution registered on CRICOS (provider code 03797M) and is located in Southbank, Victoria. The course falls under the field of education 070101 - Teacher Education: Early Childhood, which is part of the Education broad field. This level of qualification (AQF Level 3) typically prepares students for para-professional work in early childhood settings, such as childcare centres and preschools. Graduates may pursue roles as early childhood educators or assistants. As a CRICOS-registered course, it is approved for international student enrolment and is protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring quality standards and student rights.
This course covers essential knowledge and skills for working with children from birth to 5 years in early childhood education and care services. The curriculum is aligned with the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) and focuses on areas such as child development, health and safety, supporting play and learning, and building relationships with children and families. Students learn to plan and implement activities that promote holistic development, observe and document children's progress, and work within legal and ethical frameworks. While specific unit details are set by the provider, graduates typically gain practical competencies to support children's wellbeing and learning in a variety of early childhood settings.
According to the CRICOS register, this course has a duration of 1 year (52 weeks). Delivery is full-time, face-to-face at the Stirling Institute campus in Southbank, VIC. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (not a dual program) and does not include a mandatory work component. It is not classified as foundation studies. The course is delivered in a classroom-based setting, with possible practical components integrated into the learning. Students should check with the provider for specific study schedules and delivery modes.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$11,750, with additional non-tuition fees of A$400, bringing the estimated total to A$12,150. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by Stirling Institute of Australia Pty Ltd. Note that course fees are subject to change and do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. International students are required to maintain OSHC for the duration of their stay. For current fees and any applicable scholarships or payment plans, we recommend contacting the provider directly at their website. All fees shown are in Australian dollars (A$).
Entry to Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care typically requires completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent international qualification. English language proficiency is required, with a minimum IELTS overall score of 5.0–5.5 (or equivalent) being common for this level. Some providers may also require a valid Working with Children Check or other clearances. If you do not meet the direct entry requirements, Stirling Institute may offer pathway or foundation options. Contact the provider for specific entry criteria and any prerequisite units. Always verify the exact requirements with the institution before applying.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, students may have opportunities for voluntary work or placements depending on the provider's arrangements. 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, which can help gain practical experience in the early childhood sector. Note that work is not a required part of this qualification.
This course is delivered at Ground Floor, 99 Queens Bridge Street, Southbank, VIC. Southbank is a vibrant inner-city suburb of Melbourne, adjacent to the CBD, with excellent public transport connections including trains, trams, and buses. The area offers a range of student amenities such as libraries, cafes, and affordable accommodation options. Melbourne is home to over 300 CRICOS-registered providers and a large international student community. Typical weekly living costs in Melbourne are estimated at A$400–A$600, covering rent (shared accommodation A$200–A$400), groceries (A$80–A$150), and transport (A$30–A$60). These are indicative and can vary based on lifestyle.
International students enrolling in this course must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criterion, acceptance and Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from the provider, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of stay, and evidence of sufficient funds to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight when their course is in session and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. Family members (dependents) may accompany on a subsequent visa. It is important to adhere to visa conditions; breach can lead to cancellation. We recommend consulting the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent (MARA) for personalised advice.
Follow these steps to apply for Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care at Stirling Institute of Australia Pty Ltd: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Compare courses, locations, and fees. Ensure your chosen institution is CRICOS-registered (like Stirling Institute, CRICOS 03797M) for student visa eligibility. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Meet entry requirements (academic and English), submit all documents, and check application deadlines. Stirling Institute may have online or paper application forms. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, the provider issues a CoE. Use this to lodge a valid student visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and evidence of financial capacity.
Victoria is a popular study destination with over 300 CRICOS-registered providers offering a wide range of courses. Early childhood education is a growing field in Australia, with demand for qualified educators. Melbourne, where Southbank is located, is known for its multicultural environment, high quality of life, and excellent public transport. When choosing this course, consider the location's living costs, part-time work opportunities, and proximity to early childhood services for practical exposure. Also, ensure the course is CRICOS-registered (like this one) to qualify for a student visa. Remember that all international students in Australia are protected by the ESOS Act, which sets standards for course quality and student support.
Use the steps above to apply directly to Stirling Institute of Australia Pty Ltd for this course.
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Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Stirling Institute of Australia 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.