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CHC30121: Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care

Build the practical skills to support children’s learning, development, safety and wellbeing.

Blended (In class and Online)
Burwood
52 weeks (4 Terms)
Certificate III
Intake 1: 21 September 2026, Intake 2: 19 October 2026 ...
This course is available to international students holding a current Student visa.
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Course Overview

The CHC30121 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care prepares you to support children’s learning, development, health, safety and wellbeing in regulated education and care environments.

You will develop practical skills in building positive relationships with children, planning play-based experiences, supporting inclusion and diversity, applying approved learning frameworks and meeting legal and ethical responsibilities.

The course combines classroom learning, online study, practical simulations and a minimum of 160 hours of supervised vocational placement in an approved early childhood education and care service.

Entry Requirements & Eligibility

To enrol, you must:

  • Be at least 16 years of age
  • Hold a current Student visa
  • Demonstrate satisfactory completion of studies equivalent to an Australian Year 10 qualification
  • Provide evidence of upper-intermediate English language proficiency through one of the following approved tests:
    • IELTS
      • Overall band score of 6, or
      • Overall band score of 5.0 when packaged with at least 10 weeks of ELICOS, or
      • Overall band score of 4.5 when packaged with at least 20 weeks of ELICOS
    • Cambridge English: Advanced, CAE
      • Score of 162, or
      • Score of 154 when packaged with at least 10 weeks of ELICOS, or
      • Score of 147 when packaged with at least 20 weeks of ELICOS
    • Pearson Test of English Academic, PTE
      • Score of 42, or
      • Score of 36 when packaged with at least 10 weeks of ELICOS, or
      • Score of 30 when packaged with at least 20 weeks of ELICOS
    • Occupational English Test, OET
      • A score of at least B for each test component
    • TOEFL iBT
      • Score of 46, or
      • Score of 35 when packaged with at least 10 weeks of ELICOS, or
      • Score of 32 when packaged with at least 20 weeks of ELICOS
  • The English language test must have been taken within the two years immediately before the date of the visa application.

To successfully complete this course, you’ll need to:

  • Have access to a computer/laptop with webcam, microphone, headset/speakers, reliable internet, and Microsoft Office (or equivalent)
  • Maintain access to required technology and study resources
  • Complete any required Language, Literacy, Numeracy and Digital Skills evaluation
  • Obtain a valid Working with Children Check before commencing placement
  • Obtain a Police Check where required
  • Meet any immunisation requirements advised by the vocational placement provider
  • Wear appropriate attire during practical activities and vocational placement

South Sydney College may assess individual learning and support needs before enrolment and arrange suitable assistance where required.

Course Structure

All units are delivered across four study terms. The delivery schedule allows students to commence at different scheduled intakes while progressively developing the knowledge and practical skills required for vocational placement and employment.

Core Units (15) Description
CHCECE030 – Support inclusion and diversity Promote inclusive practices that respect the individual needs, cultures, identities and backgrounds of children and families.
CHCECE031 – Support children’s health, safety and wellbeing Apply practices that protect and promote children’s health, safety, nutrition and overall wellbeing.
CHCECE032 – Nurture babies and toddlers Provide responsive, respectful and developmentally appropriate care for babies and toddlers.
CHCECE033 – Develop positive and respectful relationships with children Build secure, supportive relationships and guide children’s behaviour through positive interactions.
CHCECE034 – Use an approved learning framework to guide practice Apply an approved learning framework when supporting children’s learning and development.
CHCECE035 – Support the holistic learning and development of children Support children’s physical, social, emotional, cognitive and communication development.
CHCECE036 – Provide experiences to support children’s play and learning Plan and support engaging play experiences that encourage exploration, creativity and learning.
CHCECE037 – Support children to connect with the natural environment Create opportunities for children to explore nature and develop environmentally responsible practices.
CHCECE038 – Observe children to inform practice Observe and document children’s interests, strengths and development to guide educational practice.
CHCECE054 – Encourage understanding of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples’ cultures Support respectful awareness and understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories, cultures and perspectives.
CHCECE055 – Meet legal and ethical obligations in children’s education and care Apply the legislation, regulations, standards and ethical responsibilities relevant to education and care services.
CHCECE056 – Work effectively in children’s education and care Work collaboratively and professionally within an early childhood education and care environment.
CHCPRT001 – Identify and respond to children and young people at risk Recognise indicators of harm or risk and respond according to legal and organisational requirements.
HLTAID012 – Provide First Aid in an education and care setting Provide first aid and respond to emergencies involving children, infants and adults in education and care settings.
HLTWHS001 – Participate in workplace health and safety Follow workplace health and safety procedures and contribute to maintaining a safe environment.
Core Units (3) Description
CHCECE030 – Support inclusion and diversity Promote inclusive practices that respect the individual needs, cultures, identities and backgrounds of children and families.
CHCECE031 – Support children’s health, safety and wellbeing Apply practices that protect and promote children’s health, safety, nutrition and overall wellbeing.
CHCECE032 – Nurture babies and toddlers Provide responsive, respectful and developmentally appropriate care for babies and toddlers.
CHCECE033 – Develop positive and respectful relationships with children Build secure, supportive relationships and guide children’s behaviour through positive interactions.
CHCECE034 – Use an approved learning framework to guide practice Apply an approved learning framework when supporting children’s learning and development.
CHCECE035 – Support the holistic learning and development of children Support children’s physical, social, emotional, cognitive and communication development.
CHCECE036 – Provide experiences to support children’s play and learning Plan and support engaging play experiences that encourage exploration, creativity and learning.
CHCECE037 – Support children to connect with the natural environment Create opportunities for children to explore nature and develop environmentally responsible practices.
CHCECE038 – Observe children to inform practice Observe and document children’s interests, strengths and development to guide educational practice.
CHCECE054 – Encourage understanding of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples’ cultures Support respectful awareness and understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories, cultures and perspectives.
CHCECE055 – Meet legal and ethical obligations in children’s education and care Apply the legislation, regulations, standards and ethical responsibilities relevant to education and care services.
CHCECE056 – Work effectively in children’s education and care Work collaboratively and professionally within an early childhood education and care environment.
CHCPRT001 – Identify and respond to children and young people at risk Recognise indicators of harm or risk and respond according to legal and organisational requirements.
HLTAID012 – Provide First Aid in an education and care setting Provide first aid and respond to emergencies involving children, infants and adults in education and care settings.
HLTWHS001 – Participate in workplace health and safety Follow workplace health and safety procedures and contribute to maintaining a safe environment.
Elective Units (2) Description
CHCDIV001 – Work with diverse people Communicate and work respectfully with people from diverse social and cultural backgrounds.
CHCPRP003 – Reflect on and improve own professional practice Review your performance, seek feedback and identify opportunities for ongoing professional development.

Key Learning Areas

Support children’s health, safety, nutrition and wellbeing

Build positive and respectful relationships with children

Nurture babies and toddlers using responsive care practices

Support children’s holistic learning and development

Plan play-based experiences that encourage learning and exploration

Apply approved early childhood learning frameworks

Observe and document children’s development, interests and strengths

Promote inclusion, diversity and cultural safety

Support children to connect with nature and the environment

Meet legal, ethical and regulatory responsibilities

Identify and respond to children and young people at risk

Apply workplace health and safety practices

Provide first aid in an education and care setting

Work effectively with educators, families and other professionals

Reflect on and improve professional practice

Course Delivery, Structure and Commitment

Duration: 52 weeks (including breaks)

Study Load: Approx. 30 hours per week, including 15 hours of face-to-face classes and tutorials, 5 hours of online or self-paced learning, and 10 hours of homework and independent study. Additional coaching is available by appointment.

Work Placement: Minimum 160 hours in an approved early childhood education and care service

Delivery & Assessment Methods:

Face-to-Face Classes: Delivered at the Burwood campus

Online learning: Self-paced learning activities completed via the LMS

Trainer support: Ongoing guidance, feedback, and coaching from qualified trainers

Assessments: Written assessments, case studies, projects, simulations and observed practical tasks

Training: Supervised vocational placement, workplace observations and placement evidence

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) and Credit Transfer (CT):

Students with previous study or relevant work experience may be eligible to have their existing skills recognised or receive credit for equivalent units, allowing for faster course completion.

Applications for RPL or Credit Transfer are assessed individually to ensure your experience or prior qualifications meet the required competency standards.

Ideal For:

International students seeking practical skills for entry-level roles in early childhood education and care, including long day care, preschool, family day care and outside school hours care settings.

Resources & Support

We provide the tools, equipment, and learning materials you need to succeed in your studies and future career.

01

SSC will provide:

  • Classroom and computer facilities
  • LMS access and learning materials
  • Trainer support
  • Simulated workplace resources
  • Practical training facilities
02

Student needs to provide:

  • BYO laptop with Microsoft Office or equivalent
  • Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
  • Working with Children Check
  • Police Check and immunisations
03

Vocational placement host will provide:

  • Access to early childhood workplace
  • Workplace policies and records
  • PPE and emergency equipment
  • Qualified educators supervision
Career Pathways

Career Pathways

This qualification prepares graduates for entry-level roles in regulated early childhood education and care services. Potential occupational outcomes include:

Early Childhood Educator Family Day Care Worker Playgroup Supervisor Nanny Outside School Hours Care Assistant

Graduates may progress to:

  • CHC50121 Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care
  • CHC62015 Advanced Diploma of Community Sector Management

Explore Reviews from Students

Google Rating: 4.8 | 267 reviews

I have had nothing but good experiences at South Sydney College. Every member of the staff is polite, professional, and eager to assist students with any issues or queries. They...

Maria Serenia Lee

Maria Serenia Lee

South Sydney College has provided me with invaluable knowledge and an incredible experience as an international student. They have truly honed my skills and helped me grow into a...

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Mary Ann Unggol

I appreciate the support provided by the Student Services and Administration team. They have been approachable and helpful in assisting with my queries, especially regarding...

Shane Roman (Roshien Nicole)

Shane Roman (Roshien Nicole)

I have to thank to South Sydney college for giving me a great experience talking in academic and social terms, I've learned so much with them and besides I had the great group of...

Jose Andres

Jose Andres

I've had a really positive experience studying at South Sydney College. The staff are very supportive, friendly, and approachable, which makes the college feel welcoming. They...

Renz Carmelo M. Ibay

Renz Carmelo M. Ibay

My experience studying the Certificate IV in Automotive Mechanical Diagnosis at South Sydney College over the past two years was great. The trainers were helpful, and the hands-on...

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