Certificate III In Early Childhood Education and Care

COURSE ID:

CHC30121

The Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care will equip you with the essential skills and knowledge to make a real difference in their lives. This nationally recognised qualification is your gateway to a fulfilling career in the early childhood industry.

INVESTMENT

$3,800.00

Upfront payment or tailored payment plans.
Government funding may be available. Learn more

  • All course materials
  • All assessment activities
  • Direct contact with your trainer
  • Support throughout your course
  • Online support and guided online learning
APPLY NOW
Ask us a question

Begin your journey towards a rewarding career in early childhood education

Are you ready to make a genuine difference in the lives of young children? The Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CHC30121) is designed for passionate individuals who aspire to inspire and nurture the next generation. This nationally recognised qualification lays the foundation for a meaningful career in the early childhood sector.

Flexible study options to suit your lifestyle

We understand how busy life can be, so we offer flexible delivery options to fit around your schedule. With part-time study over 1–2 years, you can learn at your own pace while balancing work, family, and other commitments. Choose from face-to-face sessions at our South East Queensland campuses or convenient Live Online classes.

Earn whilst you learn

This program allows you to work or volunteer in an early childhood education setting while studying, enabling you to apply what you learn in real-time. With just 160 required placement hours, you’ll gain practical skills without needing to step away from your current job.

A career that truly makes a difference

Becoming an early childhood educator means shaping the future and building meaningful connections with children. Whether you’re nurturing babies or fostering positive relationships with families, this career path is both fulfilling and impactful.

Comprehensive support throughout your studies

From guided online learning resources to direct trainer support via email, phone, or face-to-face sessions, we are dedicated to helping you succeed. Your personal online portal ensures easy access to assessments and learning materials whenever you need them.

Affordable and accessible education

With competitive course fees of $3,800 and flexible payment options, you can invest in your future without financial strain.

Take the first step towards a career where you can inspire, nurture, and make a lasting impact. Enrol in the Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care today!

Meet the trainers

uc_stacked_images_elementor_2e4d4d7_item1 uc_stacked_images_elementor_2e4d4d7_item2 uc_stacked_images_elementor_2e4d4d7_item3 uc_stacked_images_elementor_2e4d4d7_item4 uc_stacked_images_elementor_2e4d4d7_item5

Over 115 years of combined knowledge
in Early Childhood, Montessori, and VET training

Our qualified trainers are passionate early childhood professionals with real-world experience and a deep commitment to your success. You'll benefit from personalised guidance, practical insights, and a nurturing, supportive environment where you are valued and empowered to thrive.

How is the course delivered?

Sessions run weekly on Wednesday nights from 5:30pm – 8:30pm.

Politics Debate Streamline Icon: https://streamlinehq.com

Face-to-face at our Brisbane locations

Held at our South East Queensland campuses in small, interactive classes. Hands-on practice in an Early Childhood Environment.

Group Meeting Call Streamline Icon: https://streamlinehq.com

Virtual Learning Campus

Live, real-time virtual classes with your trainer. Full access to online resources and learning portal. Flexible study that fits around work and life.

All Learners are provided with a set of learning guides and books, as well as online guided learning via our learner management system. During the course, each Learner will have access to their own personal portal where they can download and receive their assessments, and can access support from their trainers via the phone, email, or face-to-face during classes. This ensures that learners have full support from the college.

CHCECE030 – Support inclusion and diversity

CHCECE031 – Support children’s health, safety, and wellbeing

CHCECE032 – Nurture babies and toddlers

CHCECE033 – Develop positive and respectful relationships with children

CHCECE034 – Use an approved learning framework to guide practice

CHCECE035 – Support the holistic learning and development of children

CHCECE036 – Provide experiences to support children’s play and learning

CHCECE037 – Support children to connect with the natural environment

CHCECE038 – Observe children to inform practice

CHCECE054 – Encourage understanding of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Peoples cultures

CHCECE055 – Meet legal and ethical obligations in children’s education and care

CHCECE056 – Work effectively in children’s education and care

CHCPRT001 – Identify and respond to children and young people at risk

HLTWHS001 – Participate in workplace health and safety

HLTAID012 – Provide First Aid in an education and care setting (must be completed externally)

Elective Units

CHCDIV001 – Work with diverse people

HLTFSE001 – Follow basic food safety practices

This program is delivered part-time over a period of 1 – 2 years, as per the Australian Qualifications Framework volume of learning indicators.

Learning will be conducted in the training centre for 3 hours of Live Online classes or 3 hours of face-to-face training at one of our Campus locations. These sessions are held on Wednesday nights from 5:30pm – 8:30pm.

A minimum of 1200 hours study is required to allow for sufficient understanding and application of the required skills and knowledge.

The learner must complete the Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care within an early childhood education and care setting and the learner will be either an employee or volunteer. It is the responsibility of the learner to source work placement. The training package specifies 160 hours within an early childhood education and care setting.

We use competency-based assessment for all assessment activities. Students prove competency with demonstrations of written knowledge and practical skills. We take timelines into consideration for practical skills and students must meet the criteria as deemed industry competent by the assessor.

Formative evidence will be assessed in the form of an Assessment Task Portfolio. The Assessment Task Portfolio uses several assessment tools to accommodate the student’s individual needs. The assessment types include:

  • Written Assessments
  • Reflective Questions
  • Workplace Tasks
  • Third Party Reports
  • Observation Tools
  • Recognition of Prior Learning

There are no academic pre-requisites. However, we require students to take a Language, Literacy and Numeracy test at time of enrolment.

To enrol in this course you will need:

  • A free Canva account. Create your account at www.canva.com
  • A device, such as an iPad or computer, to complete your learning, assessments and training sessions.
  • Video conferencing hardware including a working computer camera with speakers and microphone (Virtual Campus Students only)
  • Reliable access to the internet.
  • A device to record yourself for the Practical Component.
  • A quiet space to attend tutorials without interruption.
  • Sound technology and digital literacy skills

What past participants say

I felt so supported throughout my course. The trainers made the experience personal, motivating, and practical. I was ready to step straight into a role with confidence.
Sarah
Certificate III Graduate
The flexibility of online learning combined with real-world placement made studying achievable while working part-time. MECTA made my career change possible!
James
Early Childhood Educator

    Frequently asked questions

    What if I don't have a childcare job yet?

    You can complete your placement hours through volunteering or casual work while you study.

    How long does the course take?

    Typically between 1–2 years part-time, depending on your pace and schedule.

    Can I work while studying?

    Yes! Many of our students balance employment or volunteering with their studies.

    Is funding available?

    Yes — eligible students may access government subsidies to reduce course costs. Learn more >

    INVESTMENT

    $3,800.00

    Upfront payment or tailored payment plans.
    Government funding may be available. Learn more

    • All course materials
    • All assessment activities
    • Direct contact with your trainer
    • Support throughout your course
    • Online support and guided online learning
    APPLY NOW
    Ask us a question