TAFE NSW
9 months to 1 year 6 months depending on study mode
Become a qualified early childhood educator with this nationally recognised Certificate III. Learn to create safe, nurturing and inclusive environments for children while developing essential skills in child development, health, safety and first aid.
There are no formal entry requirements for this qualification. However, you should have foundational skills including the ability to problem solve and work with people in challenging situations, empathy, patience, organisational skills, and the physical ability to perform CPR. You'll need to read, write and speak English at a Year 10 level or equivalent, have access to a computer with stable internet connection, and possess good computer skills including Microsoft applications. A valid Working with Children Check (WWCC) is required if you're 18 or older, and you may need to provide evidence of vaccinations or a police check as required by your work placement provider.
The Certificate III comprises 17 units of competency: 15 core units and 2 specialty units. Core units cover essential areas including supporting inclusion and diversity, children's health and safety, nurturing babies and toddlers, developing positive relationships, using approved learning frameworks, supporting holistic development, providing play and learning experiences, connecting children with nature, observing children, understanding Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, meeting legal and ethical obligations, working effectively in education and care settings, identifying at-risk children, providing first aid, and workplace health and safety. Specialty units allow customisation and include topics such as environmental sustainability, working with diverse people, family day care administration, home-based child care, professional practice reflection, school age care, food safety, personal health management, workplace communication, and team innovation.
TAFE NSW is a leading registered training organisation (RTO 90003) with extensive experience in vocational education and training. They offer 73 study and location options across New South Wales, providing flexible delivery modes including on-campus, online, hybrid, and workplace training. TAFE NSW recognises prior learning and work experience, offers comprehensive support services including disability support, language and literacy assistance, counselling, and career guidance. Their courses are nationally recognised, allowing graduates to work across different states without additional upskilling.
Graduates can pursue careers as early childhood educators, early childhood (pre-primary school) teachers, or family day care educators. The role offers strong growth prospects with 21,500 workers currently employed in early childhood education roles. Early childhood teachers typically earn around $1,160 per week (median full-time earnings) and work approximately 41 hours per week. The qualification provides pathways to further study including the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care and Bachelor of Early Childhood Education and Care (Birth-5), enabling career advancement and specialisation in the early childhood sector.
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