Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 120117M) is a Certificate III delivered by Tigerleap Education Pty Ltd over 1 year. This qualification, nationally recognised under the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF Level 3), is designed for those looking to start a career in early childhood education. The course covers essential skills for working with children from birth to 5 years in a range of early childhood settings. As a CRICOS-registered program (CRICOS provider code 04437E), international students can study this course on a Student visa (Subclass 500). With a strong focus on practical work-based learning, including a mandatory 160-hour work placement, graduates are prepared to support children's development and wellbeing. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource, with data sourced directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026). Always verify details with the provider before applying.
This course falls under Field of Education 07 - Education, specifically 0701 Teacher Education and 070101 Teacher Education: Early Childhood. At Certificate III level, students typically develop foundational knowledge and practical skills to work in early childhood education and care settings. Core areas include supporting children's learning and development, fostering positive relationships, ensuring health and safety, and understanding legal and ethical frameworks. While HeadStart Academy does not provide specific syllabus content, graduates of such programs usually gain competencies in planning and implementing activities, communicating with families, and working collaboratively in a team. This course serves as a stepping stone to further study, such as the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care.
According to the CRICOS register, Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care at Tigerleap Education Pty Ltd has a duration of 1 year (52 weeks). The course is taught in English. It is a single qualification, not a dual or combined program. The study mode is typically full-time on campus, with a work component integrated into the curriculum. International students should note that the duration meets the requirements for a Student visa (Subclass 500).
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$10,500, with non-tuition fees of A$700, giving an estimated total of A$11,200. Please note that these fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by Tigerleap Education Pty Ltd. Fees are subject to change, so always confirm directly with the provider. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge. For current fees and payment details, visit the provider's website. As a general guide, international students should budget for living costs of approximately A$2,000–A$2,500 per month in Sydney, depending on lifestyle.
Entry requirements for this course are determined by Tigerleap Education Pty Ltd. Typically, for a Certificate III level, students need to have completed Year 12 or equivalent. English language proficiency is generally required, with an indicative IELTS score of 5.0–5.5 overall. Other equivalent English tests may be accepted. Some providers may also require a pre-training assessment or interview. International students should check the specific entry criteria with the provider and ensure they meet Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirements for their visa. Foundation or pathway programs may be available if you do not meet the direct entry requirements.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 4 weeks at 40 hours per week, totaling approximately 160 hours. This work-integrated learning (WIL) is typically undertaken as an industry placement in an early childhood education setting, such as a childcare centre or preschool. Work placements provide invaluable hands-on experience, allowing students to apply their learning in a real-world environment under supervision. It also helps build professional networks and meets the requirements for qualification. The work component is a core part of the course and may be scheduled throughout the year.
The course is delivered at Level 1, 128 Chalmers St, SURRY HILLS NSW 2010. Surry Hills is a vibrant inner-city suburb of Sydney, close to the CBD. Sydney has over 200 CRICOS-registered providers and a large student population, with excellent public transport options including trains, buses, and light rail. The campus is within walking distance to Central Station. Living costs in Sydney are higher than the national average, with indicative weekly rent for shared accommodation around A$300–$450, groceries A$80–$150, and transport A$40–$60.
International students studying this course on a Student visa (Subclass 500) must comply with visa conditions. While studying, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. You must maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. Additionally, you need to demonstrate genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criteria and financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. After completing an AQF Level 3 course, you may have limited post-study work options; consider longer or higher-level qualifications if you plan to work in Australia after study. Contact a registered migration agent for personalised advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care at Tigerleap Education Pty Ltd: 1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy's directory to filter providers by course level, field, and city. Confirm that Tigerleap Education Pty Ltd (CRICOS 04437E) meets your needs. 2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Check entry requirements (including English test scores) and application deadlines. Submit your application through the provider's online portal or contact their admissions office. 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)** – Once the provider issues your CoE, lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and meet financial requirements.
Start your application for Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care at Tigerleap Education Pty Ltd today.
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Tigerleap Education 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.