Certificate III in Early
Childhood Education & Care
-
Early Childhood
Educator -
Family Day Care
Educator - Nanny
-
Outside School
Hours Care Educator -
Playgroup
Supervisor
GET STARTED ON THE CAREER OF YOUR DREAMS
Get started on the career of your dreams with a CHC30121 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care. In order to work in this industry, you must have, or be actively working towards, at least an approved certificate III level education and care qualification in most states. This qualification will teach you how to care for children, nurture their development, and make sure their environment is safe and supportive.
Learning Method
100% online study at your own pace with dedicated support through your learning journey
Study Duration
9 Months to complete with the option to complete sooner”
Work Placement
160 hours minimum work placement required
Course Pricing
Starting from $74.95 per week
GET STARTED ON THE CAREER OF YOUR DREAMS
Get started on the career of your dreams with a CHC30121 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care. In order to work in this industry, you must have, or be actively working towards, at least an approved certificate III level education and care qualification in most states. This qualification will teach you how to care for children, nurture their development, and make sure their environment is safe and supportive.
Learning Method
Hybrid program of in class and online, spend time in our world leading facility on the Gold Coast whilst utilising our custom online learning tools
Study Duration
12 Months to complete with the option to complete sooner”
Work Placement
160 hours minimum work placement required
Course Pricing
Flexible payment arrangements on application
COURSE DESCRIPTION
Summary
This qualification equips students with the legal entry, comprehensive knowledge, and confidence needed to work with young children in the early childhood sector. Combining classroom learning with workplace training, students gain practical skills essential for a rewarding career in this field. Upon completing all relevant units of competency, students will receive a Nationally Recognised Qualification under the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) and be issued a certificate.
Entry Requirements
Students are required to be 15 years or older
Students will be required to complete and pass a Working With Vulnerable People Check (including a national police check) in the state or territory that they are working in prior to commencing work in this field.
Structure
This is a 9-month qualification, taught online and in a workplace-based environment. The qualification is comprised of competency-based training and assessment. Students will be required to log a minimum of 160 hours experience within a regulated education and care service, with GA helping with sourcing work placement
COURSE DESCRIPTION
Eligibility
Students must have passed equivalent Australian Year 11 qualifications, and hold an overall IELTS 6.0 average, or equivalent language level. Students must be eligible to obtain a Blue Card, please click on the link to discover more about Blue Cards – https://www.qld.gov.au/law/laws-regulated-industries-andaccountability/queensland-laws-and-regulations/regulated-industries-and-licensing/blue-cardservices
Delivery
This 52-week qualification includes both in-class instruction and additional vocational placement. Students will attend class 2 days per week (9am – 3pm) and engage in self-paced independent learning. The program features competency-based training and assessment, with no exams required!
Placement
Students must complete a minimum of 280 hours of vocational placement, which Gifford Academy will arrange on their behalf. This hands-on experience is crucial for applying classroom knowledge in real-world settings, ensuring students develop the practical skills and confidence needed to excel in their early childhood education careers. Gifford Academy partners with reputable early childhood centres to provide a supportive and enriching environment for vocational training.
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LOOKING FOR?
No problem! Book in a free 30 minute meeting with us or chat live with our team.
Career Insights
A Child Care course can go a long way. Here’s what is possible
- Early Childhood Educator
- Family Day Care Educator
- Nanny
- Outside School Hours Care Educator
- Playgroup Supervisor
Future Growth
Up to 6% projected growth in the Child Care sector by 2026
Avg Weekly Pay
Up to $1100 per week for child care workers
Training Satisfaction
96% of graduates were satisifed with the training
COURSE STRUCTURE
To achieve a CHC30121 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care, a total of 17 units of competency must be completed 15 core units, plus 2 elective units.
CORE UNITS
The following 15 core units must be completed:
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
Observe children to inform practice
Encourage understanding of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples’ cultures
Meet legal and ethical obligations in children’s education and care
Work effectively in children’s education and care
Identify and respond to children and young people at risk
Provide First Aid in an education and care setting
Participate in workplace health and safety
ELECTIVE UNITS
The following 2 units must be completed:
Follow basic food safety procedures
Work with diverse people
COURSE STRUCTURE
To achieve a CHC30121 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care, a total of 17 units of competency must be completed 15 core units, plus 2 elective units.
CORE UNITS
The following 15 core units must be completed:
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
Observe children to inform practice
Encourage understanding of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples’ cultures
Meet legal and ethical obligations in children’s education and care
Work effectively in children’s education and care
Identify and respond to children and young people at risk
Provide First Aid in an education and care setting
Participate in workplace health and safety
ELECTIVE UNITS
The following 2 units must be completed:
Follow basic food safety procedures
Work with diverse people
Our graduates
James L.
Enrolling in the Certificate III at Gifford Academy was the start of an incredible journey. The teaching staff was incredibly supportive, and the practical aspects of the course thoroughly prepared me for real childcare settings. I've gained invaluable skills and confidence, and I'm eager to start making a difference in young children's lives.
Maria T.
I was nervous about going back to study, but choosing the Certificate III in Early Childhood Education at Gifford Academy was the best decision I could have made. The course was so flexible around my life commitments, and the teachers were always there when I needed help or a bit of encouragement. It’s been a really empowering experience!
Anita S.
Doing the Diploma at Gifford Academy has opened so many doors for me. The lecturers brought real passion and industry insights into every class, which made learning so engaging. Plus, getting involved in projects with local childcare centres was a highlight—real hands-on learning! I feel fully equipped to start my next chapter.
Kevin R.
The small class sizes and personal attention from all the tutors at Gifford Academy made a huge difference in completing my Diploma. It wasn’t just about passing exams; it was about really understanding the material and how to apply it in a real-world setting. I've already secured a job, and I feel so prepared, thanks to Gifford Academy.
Sophie G.
Studying for my Certificate III at Gifford Academy was such a rewarding experience. The campus has a great vibe—everyone is friendly and it's easy to make friends. The practical placements were a game changer for me; they really helped me understand what working in early childhood education is all about. I’m excited for what’s next!