Early Childhood Education and Care

The Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CHC30121) at GOTAFE is a comprehensive qualification designed to prepare participants for a rewarding career in early childhood education and care. This program provides students with the essential skills and knowledge to work confidently in various childcare settings, including preschools, long day care, family day care, and outside school hours care. Throughout the course, students will learn about child development, implementing health and safety routines, and developing educational programs that promote children's learning and development. The program emphasizes practical skills, including communication, teamwork, and safeguarding children, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to foster a safe, inclusive, and stimulating environment for children aged birth to five years. Participants will undertake hands-on work placements within approved early childhood services, gaining real-world experience under the supervision of qualified educators. The curriculum covers topics such as understanding children's needs, supporting their social, emotional, and physical development, and working collaboratively with families and team members. Successful completion of this qualification can lead to employment as an early childhood educator or assistant within a range of childcare services. The course is designed to meet the requirements of the Australian Children's Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA), ensuring that graduates meet national standards for working in the sector. GOTAFE's flexible study options, including on-campus and online components, allow students to balance their studies with personal and professional commitments. This program is ideal for individuals passionate about making a positive impact on young children's lives, supporting their early learning journey, and establishing a foundation for lifelong development. Continuous support from experienced educators and access to comprehensive resources make GOTAFE's Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care the perfect stepping stone toward a fulfilling career in early childhood education.

The Early Childhood Education and Care program at GOTAFE is designed to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge required to work effectively with young children in various educational and care settings. This comprehensive course focuses on the development, learning, and well-being of children from birth to school age, emphasizing hands-on practical experience alongside theoretical understanding. Throughout the program, students will explore key areas such as child development theories, inclusive education practices, health, nutrition, and safety in early childhood environments. The curriculum also covers the importance of play-based learning, communication skills, and building strong relationships with children, families, and communities.

Students will engage in a variety of learning opportunities, including classroom instruction, online modules, and workplace placements. These placements are integral to the program, providing real-world experience and the chance to apply classroom knowledge in diverse early childhood settings such as preschools, childcare centers, and family daycare services. The program aims to develop confident, ethical, and culturally aware professionals who are committed to fostering positive early childhood experiences that support children's overall development.

In addition to core technical skills, the course emphasizes the importance of ongoing professional development, reflective practice, and engaging with current research trends in early childhood education. Graduates of the program will be prepared to work as early childhood educators, family day care educators, or in community service roles related to early childhood development. They will also be well-equipped to pursue further studies or specialized training in the field. GOTAFE’s Early Childhood Education and Care program provides a solid foundation for a rewarding career dedicated to supporting the growth, learning, and wellbeing of young children in a variety of professional settings.

Program Requirements:

To enroll in the Early Childhood Education and Care program at GOTAFE, applicants must meet specific admission criteria designed to ensure students are adequately prepared for the academic and practical components of the course. The standard entry requirements include the completion of Year 12 or equivalent qualification, demonstrating competence in literacy and numeracy as assessed through a recognized assessment process. Applicants aged 18 years or older without a Year 12 qualification may be considered under mature age entry provisions, which often involve demonstrating relevant work or life experience related to early childhood education.

Prospective students are required to provide evidence of vaccination against common communicable diseases, consistent with workplace health and safety regulations for those working with children. Additionally, applicants must undergo a Working with Children Check, a mandatory requirement for employment or voluntary work in childcare settings, to ensure suitability to work with young children and prevent any risk to their safety.

International students seeking admission must meet English language proficiency requirements, which typically include equivalent demonstrated competency through tests such as IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent accepted by GOTAFE. For domestic students, there are no specific language requirements beyond standard academic literacy.

Candidates are also encouraged to have a genuine interest in child development, strong communication skills, and the ability to undertake practical placements in childcare centers, preschools, or family day care settings. Successful completion of a pre-course interview may be part of the selection process to assess motivation and suitability for the profession.

Once enrolled, students must complete all theoretical coursework, which includes subjects on child development, health and safety, nutrition, and legal responsibilities. Practical placements form a core component of the program, requiring students to engage in supervised work experience in approved early childhood settings. These placements are essential for developing hands-on skills and are a prerequisite for graduation.

In addition to meeting the academic and practical requirements, students are expected to adhere to the Code of Conduct and the policies of GOTAFE and partner childcare organizations, including confidentiality, professionalism, and ethical behavior. Continuous assessment through assignments, practical demonstrations, and observations ensures students meet learning outcomes required for competent practice in early childhood education.

Overall, the program is designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and ethical understanding necessary to work effectively in various early childhood environments and to meet the registration and licensing standards set by relevant authorities in Victoria.

The financing options for the Early Childhood Education and Care program at GOTAFE include a range of government-subsidized and student-funded pathways designed to make studying accessible and affordable for eligible students. Australian citizens, permanent residents, and some international students may be eligible for the Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP), which significantly reduces the tuition fee burden. Under the CSP, students pay a student contribution amount set annually by the government, which for this program is structured to encourage participation in vital early childhood education training.

Additionally, the program offers access to VET Student Loans, providing financial assistance for eligible students to cover tuition fees if they do not qualify for a CSP. This loan scheme allows students to defer payment until after completing the course and gaining employment, easing immediate financial pressure. Students should meet specific eligibility criteria, including Australian citizenship or residency status and financial capacity, to access VET Student Loans.

GOTAFE also encourages students to explore scholarships and bursaries that are available based on various criteria such as academic achievement, financial need, or community involvement. These scholarships help offset costs related to tuition, textbooks, and study materials, making the program more accessible to a diverse student population.

Furthermore, students can access financial assistance through Austudy or Youth Allowance if they meet age and income eligibility requirements, providing additional support during their studies. Payment plans are often available upon request, allowing students to spread out tuition payments over the duration of the course, thus easing immediate financial burden.

The institution also provides information and support for students seeking external funding sources, including state government grants and community programs aimed at promoting early childhood education careers. These financial aid options aim to lower economic barriers, enabling a wider range of students to undertake professional training in early childhood education and care.

Overall, GOTAFE’s comprehensive financing framework is designed to support students throughout their educational journey, ensuring that financial circumstances do not hinder access to high-quality early childhood education training.

The Early Childhood Education and Care program offered by GOTAFE is designed to equip students with the foundational skills and knowledge necessary to work effectively in the early childhood education sector. This qualification prepares graduates for roles such as early childhood educators, preschool teachers, and child care workers, enabling them to support the development and learning of young children from birth to five years of age. The program emphasizes practical experience, theoretical understanding, and contemporary pedagogical approaches to ensure graduates are well-prepared for the diverse needs of children and families. Students will engage in a variety of learning activities, including classroom-based studies, hands-on placements, and industry-related projects, all aligned with national standards and regulations. The curriculum covers key areas such as child development, health and safety, curriculum planning, inclusive education, and working with families and communities. GOTAFE is committed to providing flexible learning options, including full-time, part-time, and online modes, to accommodate students’ different circumstances. Support services, such as tutoring and industry connections, are available to assist students throughout their studies. Upon completion, graduates are eligible to apply for registration with the Australian Children’s Education & Care Quality Authority (ACECQA), which is required to work in regulated early childhood settings. The program also fosters professional values, ethical practice, and lifelong learning, preparing students for ongoing career advancement in the child care sector. With the increasing demand for qualified early childhood professionals across the region, this program offers promising employment prospects and opportunities for specializations in areas such as early intervention, inclusive education, or management. GOTAFE’s strong industry links and focus on contemporary practice ensure that students graduate ready to contribute effectively to the development and wellbeing of young children.