CHC30121

Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care

For Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students

Start your career with this entry-level course that will set you up with the foundation skills you need to succeed as an educator in Early Childhood Education and Care.

Apply now

STUDY LOCATIONS North Queensland

WAYS TO STUDY On campus Apprenticeships and traineeships

NEXT INTAKE Start date: 13 Jan 2025 Duration: 18 months View all intakes

WHAT YOU'LL PAY

Fee-Free TAFE

Concession

$20 - $420

Subsidised

$20 - $955

Full Fee

$5,240

Eligibility calculator

Course overview

Start your Early Childhood Education and Care career with this entry-level course designed specifically for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students. This qualification is the minimum requirement for early childhood settings in Australia and will set you up with the foundation skills to get ahead.

According to the Australian Government's Job Outlook service, the Early Childhood Education and Care industry is experiencing very strong growth. Qualified candidates are in high demand in this very large occupation with around 184,000 job openings expected over the next five years.

This course covers a number of core skills including how to plan, implement and evaluate educational early childhood programs, support healthy meal times for children, and foster individual development. You will also learn how to comply with legal and industry requirements. Our highly-experienced team of industry professionals will provide you with one-on-one guidance in simulated working environments to give you the foundations you need to enter the sector.

Successful completion of this course will allow you to confidently seek employment in a range of entry-level early childhood education and care roles as well as equip you to complete further studies in this field.

This qualification is delivered through a compulsory residential program over 18 months. Students are eligible to enter this qualification, if they identify as being Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander and are from remote areas across the state such as:

Thursday Island and Torres Strait Outer Islands
Bamaga/Injinoo/Umagico/New Mapoon/Seisia
Napranum/Weipa
Lockhart River
Hope Vale/Cooktown
Pormpuraaw
Normanton
Yarrabah
Woorabinda
Cherbourg

What can I do?

Out of School Hours Care Assistant
Family Day Care Provider
Early Childhood Education and Care Assistant
Early Childhood Education and Care Worker

Course outcome:

CHC30121 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care

Indigenous student support

Our dedicated Indigenous Student Support Officers (ISSOs) provide tailored support designed to meet the unique needs of our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students. ISSOs can provide assistance with enrolment processes, Centrelink ABSTUDY enquiries, tutor support, referrals to other community service providers, enrolment into 'away from base' courses, and personal support.

Fee-Free TAFE

The career of your dreams is within reach thanks to Fee-Free TAFE. Follow your passion with over 70 industry-recognised courses to choose from. With a range of skill sets, certificates and diplomas available, now’s the time to get job ready with Fee-Free TAFE. Learn more

What you will study

The successful achievement of this qualification requires you to complete all core and 2 elective units from the list below. You will also be required to undertake 160 hours of vocational placement in an approved setting.

UNIT CODE
UNIT NAME

UNIT CODE
CHCECE030

Support inclusion and diversity

UNIT CODE :
CHCECE030

Unit description :
This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to reflect on and understand the impact of own values and biases, demonstrate respect for inclusion and diversity, and support children's understanding of inclusive principles and behaviours.
UNIT NAME
Support inclusion and diversity

UNIT CODE
CHCECE031

Support children's health, safety and wellbeing

UNIT CODE :
CHCECE031

Unit description :
This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge to support and promote children's health, safety and wellbeing in relation to physical activity, healthy eating, sleep, rest and relaxation and individual medical requirements.
UNIT NAME
Support children's health, safety and wellbeing

UNIT CODE
CHCECE032

Nurture babies and toddlers

UNIT CODE :
CHCECE032

Unit description :
This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to develop relationships with babies and toddlers and their families and attend to the specific physical and emotional needs of babies and toddlers from birth to 23 months. It requires the ability to follow individualised care routines for sleep, feeding and toileting.
UNIT NAME
Nurture babies and toddlers

UNIT CODE
CHCECE033

Develop positive and respectful relationships with children

UNIT CODE :
CHCECE033

Unit description :
This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to communicate and interact respectfully with children and to guide their behaviours in ways that support their agency, positive sense of self and self-regulation.
UNIT NAME
Develop positive and respectful relationships with children

UNIT CODE
CHCECE034

Use an approved learning framework to guide practice

UNIT CODE :
CHCECE034

Unit description :
This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to source and use an approved childhood learning framework.
UNIT NAME
Use an approved learning framework to guide practice

UNIT CODE
CHCECE035

Support the holistic learning and development of children

UNIT CODE :
CHCECE035

Unit description :
This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge to recognise and support the interrelationship between the physical, social, emotional, cognitive and communication development of children.
UNIT NAME
Support the holistic learning and development of children

UNIT CODE
CHCECE036

Provide experiences to support children's play and learning

UNIT CODE :
CHCECE036

Unit description :
This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to set up, support and review experiences for children's play and learning.
UNIT NAME
Provide experiences to support children's play and learning

UNIT CODE
CHCECE037

Support children to connect with the natural environment

UNIT CODE :
CHCECE037

Unit description :
This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to support and encourage children's connection with the natural environment.
UNIT NAME
Support children to connect with the natural environment

UNIT CODE
CHCECE038

Observe children to inform practice

UNIT CODE :
CHCECE038

Unit description :
This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to identify and gather information about children from observation and other sources as part of a collaborative process and as a basis for curriculum planning.
UNIT NAME
Observe children to inform practice

UNIT CODE
CHCECE054

Encourage understanding of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples' cultures

UNIT CODE :
CHCECE054

Unit description :
This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to identify different perspectives on Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples' cultures, develop an understanding of the local and broader cultural contexts, and use the identified information to embed culturally appropriate experiences, interactions, behaviours and physical environments into daily practice with children.
UNIT NAME
Encourage understanding of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples' cultures

UNIT CODE
CHCECE055

Meet legal and ethical obligations in children's education and care

UNIT CODE :
CHCECE055

Unit description :
This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to identify and meet legal and ethical obligations. This includes the ability to recognise potential and actual examples of non-compliance with regulatory requirements and contribute to the continuous improvement of practice.
UNIT NAME
Meet legal and ethical obligations in children's education and care

UNIT CODE
CHCECE056

Work effectively in children's education and care

UNIT CODE :
CHCECE056

Unit description :
This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to work in a children's education and care context using effective communication and knowledge of job roles, responsibilities and service procedures to complete daily work activities.
UNIT NAME
Work effectively in children's education and care

UNIT CODE
CHCPRT001

Identify and respond to children and young people at risk

UNIT CODE :
CHCPRT001

Unit description :

This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to support and protect children and young people who are at risk of harm. This work occurs within legislative and policy frameworks and carries a duty of care responsibility.
UNIT NAME
Identify and respond to children and young people at risk

UNIT CODE
HLTAID012

Provide First Aid in an education and care setting

UNIT CODE :
HLTAID012

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to provide a first aid response to infants, children and adults in line with first aid guidelines determined by the Australian Resuscitation Council (ARC) and other Australian national peak clinical bodies. This unit applies to a range of workers within an education and care setting who are required to respond to a first aid emergency, including asthma and anaphylactic emergencies. This includes early childhood workers and educators who work with school age children in outside school hours care and vacation programs. This unit of competency may contribute towards approved first aid, asthma and anaphylaxis training under the Education and Care Services National Law, and the Education and Care Services National Regulations (2011). Specific licensing/regulatory requirements relating to this competency, including requirements for refresher training should be obtained from the relevant national/state/territory Work Health and Safety Regulatory Authorities
UNIT NAME
Provide First Aid in an education and care setting

UNIT CODE
HLTWHS001

Participate in workplace health and safety

UNIT CODE :
HLTWHS001

Unit description :

This unit describes the skills and knowledge required for workers to participate in safe work practices to ensure their own health and safety, and that of others. The unit applies to all workers who require knowledge of workplace health and safety (WHS) to carry out their own work, either under direct supervision or with some individual responsibility.
UNIT NAME
Participate in workplace health and safety

UNIT CODE
UNIT NAME

UNIT CODE
CHCDIV001

Work with diverse people

UNIT CODE :
CHCDIV001

Unit description :

This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to work respectfully with people from diverse social and cultural groups and situations, including Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people.
UNIT NAME
Work with diverse people

UNIT CODE
HLTFSE001

Follow basic food safety practices

UNIT CODE :
HLTFSE001

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to comply with personal hygiene, maintain food safety, contribute to cleanliness of food handling areas and dispose of food.
UNIT NAME
Follow basic food safety practices

Note: For some courses, not all electives are available at all campuses.

Ways to study

Choose your study location

On campus with some online

You’ll primarily learn face to face with a teacher in one of our learning spaces such as a classroom or simulated workplace environment. Some of your training may also take place via video or Zoom. Learn more
View comparison chart

CAMPUS	STUDY MODE	START DATE	DURATION	WORKLOAD	WHAT YOU'LL PAY
Northern Peninsula Area	On campus with some online	13 Jan 2025	up to 18 months	Compulsory residential block attendance. Residential block dates will be confirmed upon enrolment.	Fee-Free TAFE: $0 Fee-Free TAFE is a government initiative covering some or all of your course fees for eligible students. Learn more Concession: $420 Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more Subsidised: $955 There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more Full fee: $5,240 This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans. More Apply
Northern Peninsula Area On campus with some online Online Time How much of the course will be delivered online. 20% On Campus Time 80% START DATE The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 13 Jan 2025 The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. DURATION The total length of time it takes to complete the course. up to 18 months The total length of time it takes to complete the course. Workload The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. Compulsory residential block attendance. Residential block dates will be confirmed upon enrolment. The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. WHAT YOU'LL PAY Fee-Free TAFE: $0 Fee-Free TAFE is a government initiative covering some or all of your course fees for eligible students. Learn more Concession: $420 Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more Subsidised: $955 There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more Full fee: $5,240 This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans. Class format Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. Teacher-led, Scheduled Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. VIRTUAL CLASS Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). No Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). ASSESSMENT The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. Online, On-Campus and vocational placement The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. TEACHER COMMS The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Less Ask a question Apply
Palm Island	On campus with some online	13 Jan 2025	18 months	Compulsory residential block attendance. Residential block dates will be confirmed upon enrolment.	Fee-Free TAFE: $0 Fee-Free TAFE is a government initiative covering some or all of your course fees for eligible students. Learn more Concession: $20 Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more Subsidised: $20 There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more Full fee: $5,240 This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans. More Apply
Palm Island On campus with some online Online Time How much of the course will be delivered online. 20% On Campus Time 80% START DATE The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 13 Jan 2025 The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. DURATION The total length of time it takes to complete the course. 18 months The total length of time it takes to complete the course. Workload The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. Compulsory residential block attendance. Residential block dates will be confirmed upon enrolment. The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. WHAT YOU'LL PAY Fee-Free TAFE: $0 Fee-Free TAFE is a government initiative covering some or all of your course fees for eligible students. Learn more Concession: $20 Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more Subsidised: $20 There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more Full fee: $5,240 This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans. Class format Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. Teacher-led, Scheduled Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. VIRTUAL CLASS Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). No Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). ASSESSMENT The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. Online, On-Campus and vocational placement The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. TEACHER COMMS The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Less Ask a question Apply
Cairns	On campus with some online	13 Jan 2025	up to 18 months	Compulsory residential block attendance. Residential block dates will be confirmed upon enrolment.	Fee-Free TAFE: $0 Fee-Free TAFE is a government initiative covering some or all of your course fees for eligible students. Learn more Concession: $420 Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more Subsidised: $955 There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more Full fee: $5,240 This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans. More Apply
Cairns On campus with some online Online Time How much of the course will be delivered online. 20% On Campus Time 80% START DATE The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 13 Jan 2025 The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. DURATION The total length of time it takes to complete the course. up to 18 months The total length of time it takes to complete the course. Workload The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. Compulsory residential block attendance. Residential block dates will be confirmed upon enrolment. The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. WHAT YOU'LL PAY Fee-Free TAFE: $0 Fee-Free TAFE is a government initiative covering some or all of your course fees for eligible students. Learn more Concession: $420 Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more Subsidised: $955 There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more Full fee: $5,240 This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans. Class format Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. Teacher-led, Scheduled Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. VIRTUAL CLASS Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). No Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). ASSESSMENT The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. Online, On-Campus and vocational placement The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. TEACHER COMMS The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Less Ask a question Apply
RATEP sites	On campus with some online	13 Jan 2025	18 months	Woorabinda. Compulsory residential block attendance. Residential block dates will be confirmed upon enrolment.	Fee-Free TAFE: $0 Fee-Free TAFE is a government initiative covering some or all of your course fees for eligible students. Learn more Concession: $20 Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more Subsidised: $20 There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more Full fee: $5,240 This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans. More Apply
RATEP sites On campus with some online Online Time How much of the course will be delivered online. 20% On Campus Time 80% START DATE The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 13 Jan 2025 The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. DURATION The total length of time it takes to complete the course. 18 months The total length of time it takes to complete the course. Workload The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. Woorabinda. Compulsory residential block attendance. Residential block dates will be confirmed upon enrolment. The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. WHAT YOU'LL PAY Fee-Free TAFE: $0 Fee-Free TAFE is a government initiative covering some or all of your course fees for eligible students. Learn more Concession: $20 Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more Subsidised: $20 There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more Full fee: $5,240 This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans. Class format Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. Teacher-led, Scheduled Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. VIRTUAL CLASS Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). No Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). ASSESSMENT The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. Online, On-Campus and vocational placement The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. TEACHER COMMS The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Less Ask a question Apply
Palm Island	On campus with some online	03 Feb 2025	18 months	Compulsory residential block attendance. Residential block dates will be confirmed upon enrolment.	Fee-Free TAFE: $0 Fee-Free TAFE is a government initiative covering some or all of your course fees for eligible students. Learn more Concession: $20 Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more Subsidised: $20 There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more Full fee: $5,240 This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans. More Apply
Palm Island On campus with some online Online Time How much of the course will be delivered online. 20% On Campus Time 80% START DATE The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 03 Feb 2025 The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. DURATION The total length of time it takes to complete the course. 18 months The total length of time it takes to complete the course. Workload The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. Compulsory residential block attendance. Residential block dates will be confirmed upon enrolment. The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. WHAT YOU'LL PAY Fee-Free TAFE: $0 Fee-Free TAFE is a government initiative covering some or all of your course fees for eligible students. Learn more Concession: $20 Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more Subsidised: $20 There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more Full fee: $5,240 This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans. Class format Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. Teacher-led, Scheduled Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. VIRTUAL CLASS Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). No Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). ASSESSMENT The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. Online, On-Campus and vocational placement The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. TEACHER COMMS The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Less Ask a question Apply
RATEP sites	On campus with some online	03 Feb 2025	18 months	Woorabinda. Compulsory residential block attendance. Residential block dates will be confirmed upon enrolment.	Fee-Free TAFE: $0 Fee-Free TAFE is a government initiative covering some or all of your course fees for eligible students. Learn more Concession: $20 Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more Subsidised: $20 There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more Full fee: $5,240 This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans. More Apply
RATEP sites On campus with some online Online Time How much of the course will be delivered online. 20% On Campus Time 80% START DATE The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 03 Feb 2025 The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. DURATION The total length of time it takes to complete the course. 18 months The total length of time it takes to complete the course. Workload The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. Woorabinda. Compulsory residential block attendance. Residential block dates will be confirmed upon enrolment. The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. WHAT YOU'LL PAY Fee-Free TAFE: $0 Fee-Free TAFE is a government initiative covering some or all of your course fees for eligible students. Learn more Concession: $20 Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more Subsidised: $20 There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more Full fee: $5,240 This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans. Class format Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. Teacher-led, Scheduled Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. VIRTUAL CLASS Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). No Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). ASSESSMENT The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. Online, On-Campus and vocational placement The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. TEACHER COMMS The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Less Ask a question Apply
Palm Island	On campus with some online	03 Mar 2025	18 months	Compulsory residential block attendance. Residential block dates will be confirmed upon enrolment.	Fee-Free TAFE: $0 Fee-Free TAFE is a government initiative covering some or all of your course fees for eligible students. Learn more Concession: $20 Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more Subsidised: $20 There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more Full fee: $5,240 This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans. More Apply
Palm Island On campus with some online Online Time How much of the course will be delivered online. 20% On Campus Time 80% START DATE The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 03 Mar 2025 The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. DURATION The total length of time it takes to complete the course. 18 months The total length of time it takes to complete the course. Workload The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. Compulsory residential block attendance. Residential block dates will be confirmed upon enrolment. The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. WHAT YOU'LL PAY Fee-Free TAFE: $0 Fee-Free TAFE is a government initiative covering some or all of your course fees for eligible students. Learn more Concession: $20 Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more Subsidised: $20 There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more Full fee: $5,240 This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans. Class format Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. Teacher-led, Scheduled Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. VIRTUAL CLASS Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). No Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). ASSESSMENT The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. Online, On-Campus and vocational placement The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. TEACHER COMMS The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Less Ask a question Apply
RATEP sites	On campus with some online	03 Mar 2025	18 months	Woorabinda. Compulsory residential block attendance. Residential block dates will be confirmed upon enrolment.	Fee-Free TAFE: $0 Fee-Free TAFE is a government initiative covering some or all of your course fees for eligible students. Learn more Concession: $20 Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more Subsidised: $20 There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more Full fee: $5,240 This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans. More Apply
RATEP sites On campus with some online Online Time How much of the course will be delivered online. 20% On Campus Time 80% START DATE The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 03 Mar 2025 The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. DURATION The total length of time it takes to complete the course. 18 months The total length of time it takes to complete the course. Workload The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. Woorabinda. Compulsory residential block attendance. Residential block dates will be confirmed upon enrolment. The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. WHAT YOU'LL PAY Fee-Free TAFE: $0 Fee-Free TAFE is a government initiative covering some or all of your course fees for eligible students. Learn more Concession: $20 Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more Subsidised: $20 There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more Full fee: $5,240 This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans. Class format Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. Teacher-led, Scheduled Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. VIRTUAL CLASS Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). No Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). ASSESSMENT The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. Online, On-Campus and vocational placement The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. TEACHER COMMS The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Less Ask a question Apply
Thursday Island	On campus with some online	02 Jun 2025	up to 18 months	Compulsory residential block attendance. Residential block dates will be confirmed upon enrolment.	Fee-Free TAFE: $0 Fee-Free TAFE is a government initiative covering some or all of your course fees for eligible students. Learn more Concession: $420 Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more Subsidised: $955 There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more Full fee: $5,240 This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans. More Apply
Thursday Island On campus with some online Online Time How much of the course will be delivered online. 20% On Campus Time 80% START DATE The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 02 Jun 2025 The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. DURATION The total length of time it takes to complete the course. up to 18 months The total length of time it takes to complete the course. Workload The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. Compulsory residential block attendance. Residential block dates will be confirmed upon enrolment. The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. WHAT YOU'LL PAY Fee-Free TAFE: $0 Fee-Free TAFE is a government initiative covering some or all of your course fees for eligible students. Learn more Concession: $420 Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more Subsidised: $955 There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more Full fee: $5,240 This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans. Class format Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. Teacher-led, Scheduled Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. VIRTUAL CLASS Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). No Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). ASSESSMENT The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. Online, On-Campus and vocational placement The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. TEACHER COMMS The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Less Ask a question Apply

Choose your study location

CAMPUS	APPRENTICESHIP / TRAINEESHIPS	DELIVERY MODE
Northern Peninsula Area	Traineeship	WORKPLACE Workplace	DROP IN DAYS Drop in days	BLOCK TRAINING Block training	DAY RELEASE Day release	MOBILE VAN Mobile van	Online Online
Cairns	Traineeship	WORKPLACE Workplace	DROP IN DAYS Drop in days	BLOCK TRAINING Block training	DAY RELEASE Day release	MOBILE VAN Mobile van	Online Online
Thursday Island	Traineeship	WORKPLACE Workplace	DROP IN DAYS Drop in days	BLOCK TRAINING Block training	DAY RELEASE Day release	MOBILE VAN Mobile van	Online Online

Studying on campus is a great way to enjoy the benefits of face-to-face education in a way that is far removed from a typical school. No matter which campus you choose, you know that you will be learning in an adult environment where you will be respected and nurtured. Attend a campus to learn face-to-face with a teacher in one of our learning spaces; such as a classroom, workshop, laboratory or simulated environments, or interact with teachers using real-time video or web conference tools. Learn more

Courses delivered on campus may have a combination of online and classroom based learning. Students are expected to undertake additional personal study to complete the course requirements.

At TAFE Queensland, we understand that employers need options and flexibility in employee training. We are committed to delivering the flexible training plans you need to get the job done. Choose from workplace training, block training, drop in days, mobile training, day release, online or a mix of all these options. Learn more

You must already be employed to enrol as an apprentice or trainee with TAFE Queensland. Speak to your employer about choosing TAFE Queensland as your Supervising Registered Training Organisation (SRTO).

Costs:

Eligible apprentices and trainees that meet the Queensland state funding requirements will be charged a set fee per nominal hour. These fees are calculated at a regulated rate of $1.60 per nominal hour. Concession rates apply for students who hold a current Health Care Card or who identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander.

Non-funded apprentices and trainees will be charged a fee for service cost. These will be confirmed prior to the commencement of training.
Information regarding costs will be outlined on the agreed training plan, which will be provided to the employer and apprentice or trainee at time of induction.

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Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CHC30121)

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Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care

COURSE CODE: CHC30121

Payment Options

How can I pay for this course?

No matter what your circumstances, TAFE Queensland has a payment option to suit you. If you are unsure of what’s right for you, get in touch. We’re here to help.

Payment plan

If you have difficulty paying for the full cost of a course upfront, you may be eligible for a payment plan.

Learn more

Upfront payment

This may be the full fee for the course, or the student contribution amount if you are eligible for a subsidy or concession.

Learn more

Entry requirements

There are no formal entry requirements for this course.

Selection criteria

You must be Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander as this training program has been developed specifically for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people in support of equity policy in post compulsory education.

You will need to:

attend an interview to determine your literacy and numeracy skills levels; and
obtain a Blue Card (Working with Children Check).

Please note: TAFE Queensland wishes to warn you, as a Blue Card applicant, that it is an offence for a disqualified person to sign a Blue Card application. For further information regarding 'disqualified' persons, please contact Blue Card Services.

Traineeship pathway
To study a traineeship program you must be indentured as a trainee with your employer.

Employers need to be able to provide necessary human and physical resources to qualify for a trainee.

Find out more on how to become an apprentice or trainee

Resources required

You must have access to a reliable internet connection to access TAFE Queensland's online learning system Connect, and a computer with up-to-date software, including Microsoft Office and Adobe Acrobat Reader. This equipment and software is also available for use at all TAFE Queensland locations.

You will be provided with a recommended reading list and/or required textbooks during orientation or at the start of each unit. The purchase of these resources may incur additional costs, or you may be able to borrow them from the TAFE Queensland library network.

You are also required to have access to a reliable USB for assessment and resource collation during residential block attendances.

Placement

If you are not currently employed in the industry, during your course you will be required to complete Placement so you can start practising your new skills in a real-world environment. You’ll be required to work shifts determined by your Placement provider, and these can include early mornings, any day of the week, including public holidays. TAFE Queensland may be able to assist in arranging suitable Placements.

Completing Placement is compulsory, and you will be expected to manage family and work commitments in order to complete your shifts. You are required to complete 160 hours of Placement to satisfy this component of your qualification.

Blue Card
To successfully satisfy all course requirements you will be required to apply for a Blue Card (Working with Children check).

If you cannot obtain a Working with Children Check (Blue Card), you will be ineligible to undertake placement and any related assessment, which will affect your course outcome. If you think this might impact you, please speak to the relevant Vocational Placement Coordinator or a Course Teacher for further information.

Vaccination requirements
Vaccinations may be required by the owner or operator of the facility providing your placement.
These requirements will be provided to the student, prior to arrangements being made for the completion of vocational placement.

It is recommended that you undertake screening for vaccination (and meet any costs incurred) against the following Queensland Health Mandatory vaccination requirements:

Some facilities may require COVID-19 Vaccination
Hepatitis A and B
Measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) (persons born during or since 1966 who have only received one dose of the MMR vaccine should have a second dose)
Chickenpox (if not previously infected)
Pertussis (whooping cough -an adult booster dose)
Influenza (annual vaccination)

Important information

You are required to attend compulsory face to face residential block training. The dates for your residential block training will be provided upon commencement of your course. To enable your attendance at residential block training, you will need to be registered with ABSTUDY.

If you are currently employed in an Early Childhood Education and Care Service, you will need to discuss your residential block release dates with your employer, to make sure you are available to attend the compulsory residential blocks.

Please note: in addition to the above, you are also required to complete your own study each week to ensure you progress successfully through your course. Further information will be provided at the commencement of your course.

This course is offered through RATEP ECEC sites providing students with face to face, online and teacher support throughout their qualification.

RATEP ECEC sites throughout the state provide early childhood training at the Certificate III and Diploma levels.

RATEP ECEC locations are as follows:

Thursday Island and Torres Strait Outer Islands
Bamaga/Injinoo/Umagico/New Mapoon/Seisia
Napranum/Weipa
Lockhart River
Hope Vale/Cooktown
Pormpuraaw
Normanton
Yarrabah
Woorabinda
Cherbourg

Assessment methods

Skill and knowledge assessments are an essential step in progressing through your course. You may be assessed in a number of ways while you are studying at TAFE Queensland, including observation, written assessment, questioning, portfolios, work samples, third-party feedback, and through recognition of prior learning. Read more about assessment methods.

Pathways

University pathways

If you want to go on to further study at university, TAFE Queensland has a pathway option to get you there. In many cases, completing one of our diplomas may give you a full year of credit towards a degree with one of our partner universities.

Learn more about University Pathways

How to apply

Direct application

If you're ready to get started, simply hit the Apply Now button on your preferred course information page and get your application underway online.

Course disclaimer

All information was accurate at time of publication, however TAFE policies, tuition fees and course content is subject to change without notice. Course commencement is dependent on sufficient enrolment numbers. Timetable information is subject to change prior to commencement and/or during the duration of your course.

Recognition of prior learning (RPL) and credit transfers

Fast track your way to a formal qualification by earning credit for the things you already know. We can assess your skills, directly apply credits from previous successful study, and give you advanced standing in your course.

Learn more

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Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care

For Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students

Course overview

What can I do?

Course outcome:

Indigenous student support

Fee-Free TAFE

Core units

Elective units

Northern Peninsula Area

Palm Island

Cairns

RATEP sites

Palm Island

RATEP sites

Palm Island

RATEP sites

Thursday Island

Download Brochure

Ask a question

Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care

Payment Options

How can I pay for this course?

Payment plan

Upfront payment

Entry requirements

Selection criteria

Resources required

Placement

Important information

Assessment methods

Pathways

University pathways

How to apply

Direct application

Course disclaimer

Recognition of prior learning (RPL) and credit transfers

Related courses

Certificate IV in Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Primary Health Care

Careers

Certificate III in Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Primary Health Care

Careers