Certificate III in Montessori Early Childhood Education

COURSE ID:

11024NAT

Are you inspired by the Montessori approach and passionate about shaping young minds? The Certificate III in Montessori Early Childhood Education equips you with the foundational knowledge and practical skills to support children in Montessori settings. This specialised program is perfect for those looking to deepen their understanding of Montessori philosophy while contributing to a nurturing educational environment.

INVESTMENT

$4,500.00

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 in Montessori education

Are you inspired by the Montessori philosophy and eager to nurture young minds? The Certificate III in Montessori Early Childhood Education is the perfect program to help you develop foundational skills and deepen your understanding of this time-tested educational approach. Whether you’re starting your career or looking to specialise, this course offers a comprehensive blend of theory, practice, and support to guide your success.

Specialise in Montessori education

Gain unique insights into the Montessori method, equipping you to create enriching, child-centered learning environments. This qualification is ideal for anyone passionate about fostering independence, creativity, and curiosity in children.

Flexible learning options

Balance your studies with other commitments by choosing between small-group, face-to-face sessions or live online training. Classes are scheduled on Tuesday evenings, making it easy to fit into your busy life.

Real-world experience

This course combines 160 hours of classroom practicum, 100 hours of Montessori observation, and 438 hours of guided independent learning. You’ll apply what you learn in a real Montessori environment, ensuring you’re fully prepared for the challenges of the field.

Expert support every step of the way

You’re never on your own. Access personalised support through your online portal, where you’ll find learning materials, assessments, and direct access to your trainers.

Affordable education

With a total course cost of just $4,500, including all materials and assessments, we also offer flexible payment plans to help you budget your investment in your future.

What you’ll learn

You’ll gain knowledge and skills to:

  • Gather and use information about children effectively.
  • Promote and implement Montessori philosophy in daily practice.
  • Facilitate the Montessori curriculum and maintain the learning environment.
  • Support development in Practical Life, Grace and Courtesy, language, mathematics, sensory learning, and more.

Career pathways

This course positions you for roles in Montessori and Early Childhood Education settings. Pair it with an ACECQA-recognised qualification to meet National Quality Framework (NQF) requirements for regulated childcare services.

Don’t wait to start making a difference in the lives of children. The Certificate III in Montessori Early Childhood Education is more than a qualification—it’s a pathway to a fulfilling and impactful career.

Meet the trainers

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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.

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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.

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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.

NAT11024001 – Gather and use information about the child

NAT11024002 – Promote Montessori philosophy theory and practice

NAT11024003 – Assist in the facilitation of the Montessori curriculum

NAT11024004 – Maintain the learning environment

NAT11024005 – Support Practical Life and Grace and Courtesy development

NAT11024006 – Support Montessori language development

NAT11024007 – Support sensory development

NAT11024008 – Support Cultural, Science and The Arts development

NAT11024009 – Support mathematical development

Note: This course does not meet National Quality Framework (NQF) qualifications independently. Pair this program with an ACECQA-recognised qualification to meet regulated childcare service requirements.

This program is delivered part-time over a period of 1 – 2 years.

Learning will be conducted in the training centre or via real time, scheduled online classes. These sessions are run on a Tuesday night from 5:30pm – 8:30pm AEST (Brisbane)

Students are required to organise access to an Early Childhood Education and Care environment with a Montessori philosophy, as observation and practicum in a classroom is required as part of the course.

Students must also complete:

  • 160 hours of classroom practicum – performing the activities outlined in the performance criteria of the units in at least one regulated education and care service with a Montessori philosophy
  • 100 hours of Montessori observation
  • 27 hours of theoretical tutorials
  • 438 hours of guided independent learning.

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
  • Portfolio
  • Practical Observation
  • Projects
  • Research project
  • Case Study
  • Montessori Albums
  • Observation and Practicum logbooks
  • Material Examination

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

    $4,500.00

    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