Program Overview

Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care

Course Description

This qualification reflects the role of workers in a range of early childhood education settings who work within the requirements of the Education and Care Services National Regulations and the National Quality Standard. They support the implementation of an approved learning framework, and support children’s well being, learning and development. Depending on the setting, educators may work under direct supervision or autonomously.

KEY INFORMATION

• Duration: 52 weeks including holidays & 160 hours of work placement
• AQF Level: 3
• Course Delivery: Face-to-Face

Course Entry Requirements

International Students

• Students must be 18 years or above.
• Complete a Pre-Enrolment Review prior to enrolment
• Complete an online language, literacy and numeracy (LLN) assessment (on campus)
• Basic-intermediate level of computer skills
• Proficient in English International Students require either an
  • IELTS level of 5.5 or above with no band under 5.0 or
  • TOEFL 46-49 (internet-based) or
  • Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE) 42 or
  • Cambridge English Advanced (CAE) score of 162 or
  • OET score of C for each test component

Domestic Students

• 18 years of age or older
• Satisfactorily completed Year 12 or equivalent
• Be able to read and comprehend course requirements
• Have an intermediate understanding of computers and the internet to assist with conducting research and complete assessments

Course Structure

This qualification consists of 17 units of competency that is made up of 15 core units and 2 elective units

All students enrolled in this qualification are required to undertake work placement. Work placement provides the student with the opportunity to put into practice the skills learned in the classroom. Work placement requirements will be discussed during Student Orientation.

AHSI will organise the work placement opportunities for students and where possible in organisations located close to their address. Should a student wish to change the work placement provider, they will need AHSI suitability approval and this can only take place after AHSI has assessed that organisation and signed a contract with the new provider.

Work placement requirements

• Hold a Working with Children Check
• Hold a National Criminal Police Check
• Are physically, mentally and emotionally healthy to respond appropriately to personal needs
• First Aid Course certificate
• Up to date immunisation including COVID19

Core units

• CHCECE030 | Support inclusion and diversity
• CHCECE031 | Support children’s health, safety and wellbeing
• CHCECE032 | Provide care for babies and toddlers
• CHCECE033 | Develop positive and respectful relationships with children
• CHCECE034 | Use an approved learning framework to guide practice
• CHCECE035 | Support the holistic learning and development of children
• CHCECE036 | Provide experiences to support children’s play and learning
• CHCECE038 | Observe children to inform practice
• CHCECE054 | Encourage understanding of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples’ cultures
• CHCECE055 | Meet legal and ethical obligations in children’s education and care
• CHCECE056 | Work effectively in children’s education and care
• CHCPRT001 | Identify and respond to children and young people at risk
• HLTWHS001 | Participate in workplace health and safety
• HLTAID012 | Provide an emergency first aid response in an education and care setting
• CHCECE037 | Support children to connect with the natural environment

Elective units

• CHCPRP003 | Reflect on and improve own professional practice
• CHCDIV001 | Work with diverse people

Career opportunities

Possible career opportunities relevant to this qualification include:

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

Pathways for Further Education

This qualification provides a pathway for students to continue their studies and enhance their skills through CHC50121 Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care.