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Early Childhood Education

Certificate III Early Childhood Education and Care (VIC only)

CHC30121

Provider logo: MCFE – Melbourne College of Further Education
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Career Outcomes

Child Care Coordinator

Child Care Worker

Early Childhood Educator

Early Learning Coordinator

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Study Mode

Blended

Classroom

Online

Workplace


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Awarded by

Melbourne College of Further Education (RTO: 21340)

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Qualification

Certificate III


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Course Fee

Price may vary

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Duration

Up to 15 months depending on delivery model and student commitment


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Start Date

Start any time if self-paced. Enquire for other start dates.

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Payment Option

Fee For Service

Payment plan

Upfront payment


On this page:

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In a nutshell

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What you'll need to get it

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Subject breakdown

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Why Melbourne College of Further Education ?

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Where will this course take you?

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Career outcomes

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Let's talk price

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This course meets the Nationally Recognised Training standards. It is listed on the Australian government's National Register for Vocational Education and Training (VET). Studying this course leads to a qualification that's recognised throughout Australia, and lets employers know that you have the right skills for the job.

In a Nutshell

The CHC30121 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care offered by the Melbourne College of Further Education is a nationally recognised qualification designed for those aspiring to work in early childhood settings. This course equips participants with essential skills and knowledge to provide safe and nurturing care for children from infancy through to kindergarten age. Students will learn to create engaging educational experiences tailored to the individual needs of each child, ensuring a supportive environment that fosters their development and well-being.

Throughout the course, learners will explore key areas such as legal and ethical obligations in childcare, inclusion and diversity, and the importance of building positive relationships with children. Practical placements are a vital component, allowing students to apply their theoretical knowledge in real-world settings. With various delivery options available, including face-to-face, blended, and self-paced models, this course is designed to accommodate diverse learning preferences and schedules. 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 You'll Need to Get In

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 Breakdown

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 trusted name in vocational training for over 20 years. As a government-registered training organisation (RTO), it is dedicated to providing quality education and training to students across Melbourne and its suburbs. With a strong commitment to student success, MCFE has positively impacted the lives of thousands of learners, helping them achieve their career aspirations.

MCFE offers a diverse range of courses, available both in classroom settings and online, ensuring flexibility for all students. The college boasts modern facilities and a team of inspiring trainers who bring valuable industry experience to the classroom. With excellent student support services in place, MCFE is committed to creating an enriching learning environment that empowers students to thrive in their chosen fields.

MCFE is a Registered Training Organisation (RTO 21340).

Where will this course take you?

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.

Let's talk price

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Payment plan

This course offers payment plan options to help you manage costs while you study. Enquire now for more details!

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

Course temporarily paused

Certificate III Early Childhood Education and Care (VIC only)

This course is temporarily closed for enquiries due to high demand but will be back soon!

Course temporarily paused

Certificate III Early Childhood Education and Care (VIC only)

This course is temporarily closed for enquiries due to high demand but will be back soon!