Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (VIC Only)

The CHC30121 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care is a nationally recognised qualification offered by Swinburne Open Education, designed for those looking to build a meaningful career working with young children. Available exclusively to students based in Victoria, Australia, this course is delivered online with flexible, self-paced study options, typically completed within 12 to 18 months. The qualification is awarded by Swinburne University of Technology and represents the minimum requirement to work in the early childhood education and care sector.

The CHC30121 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care covers a broad range of learning areas essential to working effectively with children from birth through to early childhood. Students develop skills in communicating with and supporting children, nurturing babies and toddlers, promoting inclusive and respectful practice, and understanding children’s holistic learning and development. The course also addresses child health, safety and wellbeing, connecting children with the natural environment, observing children to inform practice, and meeting the legal and ethical obligations of the sector. Additional learning areas include workplace health and safety, first aid in an education and care setting, and culturally responsive practice, including an understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ cultures. Assessment takes a variety of forms, including projects, case studies, portfolios, journals, and direct observation in the workplace.

A key component of the CHC30121 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (VIC Only) is 200 hours of Structured Workplace Learning and Assessment (SWLA), which students are responsible for arranging themselves in an approved early childhood setting such as a long day care centre, family day care, preschool, or kindergarten. The course is taught by experienced trainers and assessors with extensive backgrounds in the early childhood sector. Graduates of this qualification are well positioned to enter the workforce in a range of early childhood roles, and may also choose to continue their studies at a higher level. Enquire to learn more.

Upon successful completion of this course you will receive a CHC30121 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care from Swinburne Open Education.

The Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care is the minimum qualification required to work in the early childhood sector in Australia. Graduates may pursue roles such as early childhood educator, family day care educator, or out of school hours care educator, working in settings including long day care centres, family day care services, preschools, and kindergartens. According to Jobs and Skills Australia (2024), skilled child care workers are identified as a priority occupation across every Australian state and territory, with above-average future demand expected to continue.

This qualification also provides a foundation for further study. Graduates may choose to go on to complete a higher-level qualification, such as a Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care, while working in the field. The course is nationally recognised, meaning the qualification is valued across Australia, though it is currently only available to students based in Victoria.