Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (15 months)

About the course

This entry-level qualification builds foundational skills for working in early childhood education and care settings. You’ll learn to support children’s learning and development, implement routines, and work effectively with educators, children and families while meeting relevant regulations and safety practices. The course is delivered in a hybrid format with multiple campus options, and prepares you for supervised work in early learning environments at Certificate III level in education and teaching.

Career outcome

Graduates can pursue roles supporting children’s education and wellbeing in early childhood services. Typical opportunities include working as an early childhood educator in long day care or kindergarten programs, providing in-home care as a nanny, or assisting in family day care environments (subject to role and employer requirements). This Certificate III supports entry to the early childhood sector and builds a base for further study in education and teaching. Preparing graduates for teacher aide, early childhood support, and education assistant roles, or degree articulation.

Living Costs in Gold Coast**

Restaurant (Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant) A$ 22 - 29	Rent per Month (1 bedroom in City Centre) A$ 1,564 - 2,068	Rent per Month (1 bedroom Outside of Centre) A$ 1,096 - 1,449
Transportation (Daily) A$ 3 - 9	Utilities per Month (Electricity, Mobile & Internet) A$ 234 - 310

Average Salary***

*Source: QS World University Subjects Rankings (2026)

**Source: numbeo.com

***Source: PayScale.com (2026)