Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 119803K) is a Certificate III delivered by Alma Mater College Australia Pty Ltd over 1 year. This qualification is at AQF Level 3 and falls under the field of Education, specifically Teacher Education: Early Childhood. It equips students with foundational skills to work in early childhood settings, supporting children's development and learning. The course includes a mandatory work component of 200 hours, providing practical experience. Delivered at Alma Mater College's campus in Melbourne's CBD, this course is ideal for international students seeking a career in early childhood education. Australia boasts over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and this CRICOS-registered course (119803K) ensures quality assurance under the ESOS Act. As an international student, you'll enjoy student visa (Subclass 500) benefits, including work rights. Melbourne, Victoria's capital, is home to over 200,000 international students and offers a vibrant multicultural environment. The indicative total fee for this course is A$12,660 (tuition A$12,000 plus non-tuition fees A$660), excluding OSHC, living costs, and visa charges. Always confirm fees directly with Alma Mater College.
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 119803K) is a Certificate III delivered by Alma Mater College Australia Pty Ltd over 1 year. This AQF Level 3 qualification falls under field 070101 - Teacher Education: Early Childhood. It provides foundational knowledge and skills to work with children from birth to 5 years, supporting their learning and development. The course is CRICOS-registered, meaning it meets Australian standards for international students. Alma Mater College Australia Pty Ltd is a private provider (CRICOS 04058E) based in Melbourne. This course is designed for those seeking to enter the early childhood sector as an educator. The indicative tuition fee is A$12,000, with additional non-tuition fees of A$660, making a total of A$12,660. A mandatory work component of 200 hours (10 weeks at 20 hours/week) is included to provide practical experience. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026.
The course covers essential topics in early childhood education, including child development, health and safety, play-based learning, and communication with families. Graduates of Certificate III level programs typically develop skills to plan and implement activities, observe children, and work within legal and ethical frameworks. In this course, students will learn about the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF), National Quality Standards, and how to create inclusive learning environments. They will develop skills in fostering children's social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development. The curriculum includes practical components such as health and nutrition, cultural awareness, and working with Indigenous families. Assessment methods may include written assignments, observations, and practical demonstrations. Upon completion, graduates can pursue roles in childcare centers, preschools, or family day care. This qualification is a stepping stone to further study at Diploma level. For a detailed subjects list, prospective students should contact Alma Mater College directly.
According to the CRICOS register, this course has a duration of 1 year (52 weeks). The language of instruction is English. It is a single qualification, not a dual or foundation studies program. Study mode is not explicitly listed, but typically Certificate III courses are offered full-time on campus. The 52-week duration qualifies for a student visa (Subclass 500) for the expected duration of the course. Students should plan their finances accordingly for the full year. The course is delivered at Level 2, 55 Swanston St, Melbourne VIC 3000. This Melbourne CBD location is easily accessible by public transport. International students must maintain full-time enrollment as per student visa conditions, which generally require at least 20 hours of scheduled class per week. Students should confirm scheduling details with Alma Mater College.
The indicative fees for Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care at Alma Mater College Australia Pty Ltd are as follows: Tuition fee: A$12,000; Non-tuition fees: A$660; Estimated total: A$12,660. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. They do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. For current and accurate fees, always check Alma Mater College's official website. Living costs in Melbourne are estimated at around A$500-600 per week for rent, groceries, and transport (based on Department of Home Affairs guidelines). Students should budget at least A$29,710 per year for living costs as per the 2026 student visa financial capacity requirement. OSHC costs approximately A$500-700 per year for a single student, depending on the provider.
For international students, the minimum English language requirement is IELTS 5.0-5.5 overall (or equivalent). Applicants are expected to have completed Year 12 or equivalent qualification. This is a Certificate III level course, so no prior tertiary education is required, but basic literacy and numeracy skills are assumed. Some providers may require a Working with Children Check or police clearance for the work component. The course is suitable for students who have a genuine interest in working with young children. Prior study in education or childcare is not mandatory. English language proficiency can also be demonstrated through other tests like PTE Academic or Cambridge English. For visa purposes, students must meet the Department of Home Affairs requirements for English language ability, typically at least IELTS 5.5 for packaged courses. Foundation or pathway options may be available for students who do not meet entry requirements; contact Alma Mater College for details. Always confirm specific entry requirements directly with the institution as they can vary.
Yes, this course includes a mandatory work component: 10 weeks at 20 hours per week, totaling approximately 200 hours. This work-integrated learning typically involves an industry placement or internship in an early childhood setting such as a childcare center or preschool. It allows students to apply theoretical knowledge in a real-world environment, develop professional skills, and build a network in the early childhood sector. The placement is supervised by qualified educators and may require a police check or Working with Children Check. This component is integral to the qualification and is assessed as part of the course. International students must ensure their visa conditions allow for unpaid placements; student visas generally allow unlimited hours for compulsory work placements that are part of the course.
This course is delivered at Alma Mater College Australia Pty Ltd's campus located at Level 2, 55 Swanston St, Melbourne VIC 3000. This is in the heart of Melbourne's Central Business District, close to Flinders Street Station and many tram lines. Melbourne is Victoria's capital city, home to over 200,000 international students and more than 200 CRICOS-registered providers. Studying in Melbourne offers access to a vibrant cultural scene, excellent public transport, and diverse communities. The city is known for its high quality of life and is consistently ranked as one of the world's most liveable cities. Living costs in Melbourne are higher than some regional areas but lower than Sydney. The campus location provides easy access to libraries, cafes, and study spaces.
International students studying this course will require a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays (subject to visa conditions). You must maintain genuine student status, meet Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirements, and have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. Financial capacity is a key requirement; as of 2026, students need to demonstrate at least A$29,710 per year for living costs (excluding tuition and OSHC). All students are protected by the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act, which ensures quality education and consumer rights. For detailed visa information, consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent (MARA). HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice.
Melbourne is a leading destination for early childhood education studies, with numerous childcare centers, kindergartens, and long day care facilities. The city's multicultural environment provides rich opportunities for students to work with diverse families. Victoria has a strong regulatory framework for early childhood education, aligned with the National Quality Framework (NQF). Graduates of this course can find employment in Melbourne's growing early childhood sector, which has high demand for qualified educators. Additionally, studying in Melbourne allows you to connect with professional networks and access ongoing professional development. The city offers a vibrant student life with affordable food, entertainment, and sporting events. With over 200 CRICOS-registered providers in Victoria, you have many options for further study or advancement.
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Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Alma Mater College 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.