Certificate III Early Childhood Education and Care (VIC only)
- Location
- VIC
- Study Mode
- Blended, Classroom, Online, Workplace
- Awarded by
- Melbourne College of Further Education (RTO: 21340)
- Qualification
- Certificate III
- Course Fee
- Price may vary
- Duration
- Up to 15 months depending on delivery model and student commitment
- Start Date
- Start any time if self-paced. Enquire for other start dates.
- Payment Options
- Fee For Service, Payment plan, Upfront payment
About the Course
The CHC30121 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care, offered by the Melbourne College of Further Education, is a nationally recognised qualification designed to equip individuals with the essential skills and knowledge required to work effectively in early childhood settings. This course focuses on providing safe and nurturing care for children from infancy through to kindergarten age, ensuring that educators can meet the diverse needs of each child. Participants will engage in both theoretical and practical learning experiences, preparing them to become confident and professional childcare educators. Throughout the course, learners will explore key areas such as child development, health and safety, and the importance of inclusive practices. The curriculum includes core units that cover legal and ethical obligations, as well as strategies to support children’s holistic learning and development. With various delivery options available, including face-to-face, blended, and self-paced models, students can choose a format that best suits their lifestyle and commitments. This flexibility, combined with a strong emphasis on practical placement, ensures that graduates are well-prepared to enter the workforce and make a positive impact in the lives of children and their families. Upon completion of the CHC30121 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care, graduates will have access to a range of job opportunities, including roles as educators, playgroup supervisors, and kindergarten assistants. This qualification also serves as a stepping stone for further studies, such as the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care. Enquire to learn more. There are three delivery options for this course: Classroom based: Face-to-Face Theory + Practical Skills Class-based Blended: Online Zoom classes + Practical Skills Self-Paced Model: Online Theory + Practical Skills 160 hours of practical work placement at a regulated children’s service is required to complete this course. Please note: This course is Fee for Service, it is NOT government funded.
What can I do after?
Upon successful completion of this course you will receive a CHC30121 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care qualification from Melbourne College of Further Education. This nationally recognised qualification is essential for anyone looking to start a career in early childhood education and care. Graduates will gain the foundational skills and knowledge necessary to provide safe and nurturing environments for children, from infants to kindergarten age. With this certification, students can pursue various roles such as educator, playgroup supervisor, or kindergarten assistant, opening doors to a rewarding career in a growing industry. Additionally, completing the Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care provides a pathway for further study, including the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care. This progression allows students to enhance their qualifications and career prospects, while also gaining membership in professional associations that can support their ongoing professional development.
What are the fees?
The full fee for this course is $3,910. Pay upfront and receive a 10% discount. Payment Plan: $78.20 per week for 50 weeks There is also an enrolment fee of $100
Frequently Asked Questions
What you’ll need
To enrol in this course the following entry criteria apply: Application Participate in a Pre-Training Review Complete an enrolment Form Digital Literacy Access to a computer or smart device and the internet Intermediate digital literacy skills Language Literacy and Numeracy AQF Level 2 Availability Class-based: One day a week for 5 hours Ability to undertake 160 hours practical placement at a regulated children’s service
Subject summary
In the CHC30121 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care course, the subjects that students may study include: Core Units CHCECE056 – Work effectively in children’s education and care CHCECE055 – Meet legal and ethical obligations in children’s education and care CHCECE030 – Support inclusion and diversity CHCECE034 – Use an approved learning framework to guide practice CHCECE054 – Encourage understanding of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples’ cultures HLTWHS001 – Participate in workplace health and safety HLTAID012 – Provide first aid in an education and care setting CHCPRT001 – Identify and respond to children and young people at risk CHCECE032 – Nurture babies and toddlers CHCECE031 – Support children’s health, safety and wellbeing CHCECE035 – Support the holistic learning and development of children CHCECE036 – Provide experiences to support children’s play and learning CHCECE038 – Inform practice CHCECE033 – Develop positive and respectful relationships with children CHCECE037 – Support children to connect with the environment Elective Units HLTFSE001 – Follow basic food safety practices BSBTWK301 – Use inclusive work practices 160 hours of practical work placement at a regulated children’s service is also required. Delivery and Assessment Class-based (Face-to-face or Blended) – 35 Sessions 30 X 5 Hour Theory Sessions 4 X 5 Hour Classroom-Based Practical Skills Sessions 1 X 8 Hour First Aid Class 160 hours practical placement 2 X 2 Hour Assessor Workplace Visit Recommended 15 hours of self-paced learning per week Average duration 12 months Enhanced Blended Model – 49 Sessions 44 X 5 Hour Live Online Theory Sessions (extra support) 4 X 5 Hour Classroom-Based Practical Skills Sessions (you must book these in) 1 X 8 Hour First Aid Class (you must book this in) 160 hours practical placement 2 X 2 Hour Assessor Workplace Visit Recommended 15 hours of self-paced learning per week Average duration 15 months Self-paced Model (Available from April 2025) Self-paced theory – study plans available for 9 month fast track or 15 month standard duration 4 X 5 Hour Classroom-Based Practical Skills Sessions 1 X 8 Hour First Aid Class 160 hours practical placement 2 X 2 Hour Assessor Workplace Visit Self -paced learning per week depends on duration, averages 15-25 hours per week Average duration 15 months Assessment Online Theory questions in Canvas our Learning Management System Oral questions Projects Observations of skills Log book Credit transfer and RPL available Practical Placement 160 hours of practical placement at a regulated children’s service Class-based students: Placement can commence from your final group Self-paced students: Placement commences after all theory & skills have been completed Assessor workplace visits can be booked after all classes have been completed and placement hours are nearly complete You must leave enough placement hours to cover time required to complete visits after all classes have been completed Meet industry working with children check Ability to travel to placement Travel fees will apply for visits over 50km from head office
Why Melbourne College of Further Education?
Melbourne College of Further Education (MCFE) has been a cornerstone of quality education for over 20 years. As a government-registered training organisation (RTO), it is well-respected for its commitment to providing exceptional training and education. With its headquarters in Melbourne and various training sites across the city and suburbs, MCFE has successfully supported thousands of students in their educational journeys. Students at MCFE benefit from state-of-the-art facilities and inspiring trainers who bring a wealth of industry experience to the classroom. Whether studying in-person or online, learners receive excellent support tailored to their needs, ensuring a rewarding and successful educational experience. MCFE is dedicated to empowering individuals to achieve their career aspirations through quality training and education. MCFE is a Registered Training Organisation (RTO 21340).
