Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care
Turn Your Childcare Experience into a National Qualification
This nationally recognised qualification prepares you to support the development, wellbeing, and learning of children from birth to school age. You’ll gain the foundational skills and knowledge required to create safe, nurturing, and engaging environments for children in early education and care settings.
AT A GLANCE
Delivery Mode:
Online + Practical Placement
Duration:
Self-paced
Entry Requirements:
18 years or older, basic literacy and numeracy, access to a computer and internet
Work Placement:
160 hours (arranged or supported by our partner RTOs)
Course Overview
The Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care is ideal for individuals passionate about helping young children learn, grow, and thrive.
Through this qualification, you’ll develop the practical skills and theoretical knowledge needed to support educators and families in fostering children’s holistic development in a safe and inclusive environment.
Core & Elective Units
Core Units
- Support inclusion and diversity
- Support children’s health, safety and wellbeing
- Nurture babies and toddlers
- Develop positive and respectful relationships with children
- Use an approved learning framework to guide practice
- Support the holistic learning and development of children
- Provide experiences to support children’s play and learning
- Support children to connect with the natural environment
- Participate in workplace health and safety
- Identify and respond to children and young people at risk
Elective Units (sample)
- Work with diverse people
- Reflect on and improve own professional practice
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this qualification may find employment in roles such as:
- Early Childhood Educator
- Family Day Care Educator
- Preschool Assistant
- Kindergarten Assistant
- Childcare Support Worker
This qualification also serves as a pathway to further study, such as the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care.
Work Placement Requirements
- A minimum of 160 hours of practical placement in a registered early childhood education or care setting
- Students must obtain a National Police Check, Working with Children Check, and meet health and vaccination requirements (as required by their state or territory)
- Assistance with placement is available through our partner RTO network
Recognition of Prior Learning & Credit Transfer
If you’ve already worked in the community or disability sector, you may be eligible for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).
Your experience and previous studies can count towards units in this qualification — saving you time and cost.
Our RPL specialists will guide you through an easy eligibility and documentation process.
Learner Support
We’re committed to supporting every learner:
- Flexible study options and online access
- Guidance from experienced trainers
- Ongoing administrative and technical support
- Assistance with RPL and documentation preparation
Ready to Get Recognised?
Turn your experience into a qualification — start today.