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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 a worker in Early Childhood Education and Care.

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STUDY LOCATIONS Far North Queensland
WAYS TO STUDY On campus Apprenticeships and traineeships
WHAT YOU'LL PAY
Fee-Free TAFE
$0
Concession
$790
Subsidised
$1,230
Full Fee
$4,795
Eligibility Calculator
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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.

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.

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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

Ways to study
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CAMPUS START DATES DURATION WORKLOAD STUDY MODE WHAT YOU'LL PAY
Northern Peninsula Area
Anytime
1 year
Compulsory residential block attendance. Residential block dates will be confirmed upon enrolment.
Mixed mode
  • Fee-Free TAFE: $0
  • Concession: $790
  • Subsidised: $1,230
  • Full fee: $4,795
Apply
Cairns
Anytime
1 year
Compulsory residential block attendance. Residential block dates will be confirmed upon enrolment.
Mixed mode
  • Fee-Free TAFE: $0
  • Concession: $790
  • Subsidised: $1,230
  • Full fee: $4,795
Apply
Thursday Island
Anytime
1 year
Compulsory residential block attendance. Residential block dates will be confirmed upon enrolment.
Mixed mode
  • Fee-Free TAFE: $0
  • Concession: $790
  • Subsidised: $1,230
  • Full fee: $4,795
Apply
CAMPUS APPRENTICESHIP/TRAINEESHIP DELIVERY MODE
Northern Peninsula Area
Traineeship
WORKPLACE
DROP IN DAYS
BLOCK TRAINING
DAY RELEASE
MOBILE VAN
MIXED MODE
Cairns
Traineeship
WORKPLACE
DROP IN DAYS
BLOCK TRAINING
DAY RELEASE
MOBILE VAN
MIXED MODE
Thursday Island
Traineeship
WORKPLACE
DROP IN DAYS
BLOCK TRAINING
DAY RELEASE
MOBILE VAN
MIXED MODE
Show courses from
CAMPUS START DATES DURATION WORKLOAD STUDY MODE WHAT YOU'LL PAY
Northern Peninsula Area
Anytime
1 year
Compulsory residential block attendance. Residential block dates will be confirmed upon enrolment.
Mixed mode
  • Fee-Free TAFE: $0
  • Concession: $790
  • Subsidised: $1,230
  • Full fee: $4,795
Apply
Cairns
Anytime
1 year
Compulsory residential block attendance. Residential block dates will be confirmed upon enrolment.
Mixed mode
  • Fee-Free TAFE: $0
  • Concession: $790
  • Subsidised: $1,230
  • Full fee: $4,795
Apply
Thursday Island
Anytime
1 year
Compulsory residential block attendance. Residential block dates will be confirmed upon enrolment.
Mixed mode
  • Fee-Free TAFE: $0
  • Concession: $790
  • Subsidised: $1,230
  • Full fee: $4,795
Apply
CAMPUS APPRENTICESHIP/TRAINEESHIP DELIVERY MODE
Northern Peninsula Area
Traineeship
WORKPLACE
DROP IN DAYS
BLOCK TRAINING
DAY RELEASE
MOBILE VAN
MIXED MODE
Cairns
Traineeship
WORKPLACE
DROP IN DAYS
BLOCK TRAINING
DAY RELEASE
MOBILE VAN
MIXED MODE
Thursday Island
Traineeship
WORKPLACE
DROP IN DAYS
BLOCK TRAINING
DAY RELEASE
MOBILE VAN
MIXED MODE

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, 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
Important Information

Read this before applying

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.

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, Adobe Acrobat Reader and Adobe Flash Player. 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

TAFE Queensland Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) Students are advised to seek advice from Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) Services about the Service’s COVID-19 vaccination requirements for Vocational Placement given the below advice, effective 1am AEST 30 June, 2022 & available at this link: https://www.qld.gov.au/health/conditions/health-alerts/coronavirus-covid-19.

From 1am AEST Thursday 30 June 2022, vaccinations will no longer be mandatory for the following:

Workers in high-risk settings (unless required by their employer) including: early childhood, primary and secondary education, prisons, youth detention centres, watch houses and airports.

If you are not currently employed in the industry, during your course you will be required to complete vocational 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). 

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. 

If you are unable to obtain a Blue Card, you may be disqualified from being eligible to undertake placement and assessment, which would affect your course outcomes. If you think this might impact you, please speak to the relevant Vocational Placement Coordinator for further information.

It is also recommended that all students should undertake screening for vaccination against the following Queensland Health Mandatory vaccination requirements such as:

  • MMR (Measles, Mumps and Rubella)
  • Influenza
  • Varicella zoster virus (chicken pox)
  • Pertussis (whooping cough)
  • Hepatitis B

You will be responsible for any costs associated with meeting these placement requirements.

Need to know

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:
- Bamaga
- Barambah
- Palm Island
- St George and surrounding regions
- Thursday Island and surrounding regions
- Woorabinda
- Yarrabah

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

  • James Cook University
  • Southern Cross University
  • University of Canberra
  • Griffith University
  • Queensland University of Technology
  • University of Southern Queensland

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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