Nationally Recognised Childcare Courses – CHC30121 & CHC50121

Our nationally recognised childcare courses include the CHC30121 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care, the CHC50121 Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care, and the Early Childhood Education and Care Combo, which combines both into a single fast-tracked qualification. These flexible online courses prepare you to work in childcare centres, kindergartens, preschools, and family day care – from entry-level educator roles to senior leadership positions.

Study 100% online at your own pace, with personal support from experienced trainers in every major state. All courses include a real-world placement in a registered early childhood service, helping you build practical skills and job confidence. Most students complete the Certificate III or Diploma in 6 months, or the Combo in around 9 months.

Skills You'll Gain

Throughout the program, you’ll develop a broad set of job-ready skills, including:

  • Support children’s learning and development through play-based activities
  • Promote health, nutrition, safety, and wellbeing in early childhood settings
  • Build strong partnerships with families and communities
  • Assist babies, toddlers, and preschoolers with daily routines and education
  • Plan and lead learning experiences aligned with national frameworks (EYLF)
  • Observe and document child development
  • Mentor other educators (Diploma level)
  • Manage compliance and support centre leadership (Diploma/Combo)

Complete Your Childcare Course in Half the Time

ITAC’s integrated course structure allows you to complete your childcare qualification significantly faster than traditional programs. Whether you enrol in the CHC30121 Certificate III, CHC50121 Diploma, or the Childcare Combo, our streamlined delivery reduces repetition and focuses on practical, job-ready skills.

Most students graduate in 6 to 9 months, depending on the course selected — far quicker than the 12–24 months often required by other providers. This means you can start working in early childhood sooner, with the confidence and skills employers are looking for.

Example – Combo Students Save Time and Money

Students who enrol in the Childcare Combo (CHC30121 + CHC50121) typically complete both qualifications in just 9 months, compared to the 2–4 years it can take if done separately. This integrated path saves time, lowers cost, and prepares you for both educator and leadership roles in one enrolment. [Read more]

Childcare Courses

  • Qualifications Available:
    • CHC30121 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care [Read more]
    • CHC50121 Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care [Read more]
    • CHC30121 + CHC50121 (Childcare Combo) [Read more]
  • Accreditation:
    Nationally Recognised
  • Availability:
    Australia-wide including WA, VIC, NSW, QLD, SA
  • Duration:
    • Certificate III: approx. 6 months
    • Diploma: approx. 6 months
    • Combo: approx. 9 months
    Many students finish faster with prior experience in childcare, parenting, or study.
  • Enrolment:
    Flexible, 18-month enrolment window to accommodate life events
  • Content:
    Courses cover core to advanced skills including:
    • Child health, nutrition, and safety
    • Play-based learning and development
    • Observing and responding to developmental needs
    • Curriculum planning (Diploma level)
    • Compliance, leadership, and mentoring (Diploma level)
    • Working with babies, toddlers, and preschoolers
    • Family and community partnerships
  • Placement:
    All courses include a real-world placement in a registered early childhood service:
    • Certificate III: 160 hours
    • Diploma: 280 hours
    • Combo: 440 hours
    Trainer support and placement assistance included.
    [Read more]
  • Study Options:
    • 100% Online plus placement: Enrol anytime and study at your pace [Read more]
    • Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL): Available for experienced learners [Read more]
  • Support:
    Trainer support available across all major states. Weekly webinars, phone/email help, placement guidance, and job readiness assistance [Read more]
  • Time-Saving:
    Our integrated Combo structure reduces repetition and condenses content, allowing students to complete two qualifications in a fraction of the normal time. [Read more]
  • Fees & Payment:
    • Certificate III: $3,500
    • Diploma: $3,800
    • Combo (Cert III + Diploma): $4,500
    Interest-free payment plans available. Centrelink approved. 30-day obligation-free trial. All materials included. [See Fees tab]

Fees & Payments

  • Course Fees:
    • $3,500 (Cert III)
    • $3,800 (Diploma)
    • $4,500 (Cert III + Diploma)
  • Payment Plan:
    Interest-free options available
  • Evaluation Period:
    30-day trial period
  • Centrelink:
    Eligible for student payments during study
  • Materials:
    Included – no additional costs
  • Textbook:
    PDF version provided free; optional paperback available for purchase
  • Transaction fees:
    None
  • Terms and Conditions:
    Enrolment Terms and Conditions
    Direct Debit Terms and Conditions

Interest-free Payment Options (CHC30121 Certificate III)

Interest-Free Payment Options

Plan $/Pay Total
Weekly x 52 $67.31 $3,500
Weekly x 38 $92.11 $3,500
Weekly x 26 $134.62 $3,500
Weekly x 12 $291.67 $3,500
Fortnightly x 26 $134.62 $3,500
Fortnightly x 18 $194.44 $3,500
Fortnightly x 12 $291.67 $3,500
Fortnightly x 6 $583.33 $3,500
Monthly x 12 $291.67 $3,500
Monthly x 9 $388.89 $3,500
Monthly x 6 $583.33 $3,500
Monthly x 3 $1166.67 $3,500
Monthly x 2* $1500 / $2000 $3,500

* Due to regulations ITAC cannot receive more than $1500 in advance. The second payment is scheduled soon after the 30-day census period. Students may request fees be paid over 2-3 payments.

Interest-free Payment Options (CHC50121 Diploma)

Interest-Free Payment Options

Plan $/Pay Total
Weekly x 52 $73.08 $3,800
Weekly x 38 $100.00 $3,800
Weekly x 26 $146.15 $3,800
Weekly x 12 $316.67 $3,800
Fortnightly x 26 $146.15 $3,800
Fortnightly x 18 $211.11 $3,800
Fortnightly x 12 $316.67 $3,800
Fortnightly x 6 $633.33 $3,800
Monthly x 12 $316.67 $3,800
Monthly x 9 $422.22 $3,800
Monthly x 6 $633.33 $3,800
Monthly x 3 $1,266.67 $3,800
Monthly x 2* $1500 / $2300 $3,800

* Due to regulations ITAC cannot receive more than $1500 in advance. The second payment is scheduled soon after the 30-day census period. Students may request fees be paid over 2-3 payments.

Interest-free Payment Options (Combo - Cert III + Diploma)

Interest-Free Payment Options

Plan $/Pay Total
Weekly x 52 $86.54 $4,500
Weekly x 38 $118.42 $4,500
Weekly x 26 $173.08 $4,500
Weekly x 12 $375.00 $4,500
Fortnightly x 26 $173.08 $4,500
Fortnightly x 18 $250.00 $4,500
Fortnightly x 12 $375.00 $4,500
Fortnightly x 6 $750.00 $4,500
Monthly x 12 $375.00 $4,500
Monthly x 9 $500.00 $4,500
Monthly x 6 $750.00 $4,500
Monthly x 3 $1,500.00 $4,500
Monthly x 2* $1500 / $3000 $4,500

* Due to regulations ITAC cannot receive more than $1500 in advance. The second payment is scheduled soon after the 30-day census period. Students may request fees be paid over 2-3 payments.

* Due to regulations ITAC cannot receive more than $1500 in advance. The second payment is scheduled soon after the 30-day census period. Students may request fees be paid over 2-3 payments.

Units in Childcare Qualifications

CHCECE030 Support inclusion and diversity
CHCECE031 Support children’s health, safety and wellbeing
CHCECE032 Nurture 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
CHCECE037 Support children to connect with the natural environment
CHCECE038 Observe children to inform practice
CHCECE054 Observe children to inform practice
CHCECE055 Meet legal and ethical obligations in children’s education and care
CHCECE056 Work effectively in children’s education and care
CHCPRT001 Work effectively in children’s education and care
HLTAID012 Provide First Aid in an education and care setting *
HLTWHS001 Participate in workplace health and safety
CHCDIV001 Work with diverse people
CHCPRP003 Reflect on and improve own professional practice

* This unit is completed externally at the student's own cost.

BSBTWK502 Manage team effectiveness
CHCECE041 Maintain a safe and healthy environment for children
CHCECE042 Foster holistic early childhood learning, development and wellbeing
CHCECE043 Nurture creativity in children
CHCECE044 Facilitate compliance in a children’s education and care service
CHCECE045 Foster positive and respectful interactions and behaviour in children
CHCECE046 Implement strategies for the inclusion of all children
CHCECE047 Analyse information to inform children’s learning
CHCECE048 Plan and implement children’s education and care curriculum
CHCECE049 Embed environmental responsibility in service operations
CHCECE050 Work in partnership with children’s families
CHCPRP003 Reflect on and improve own professional practice
CHCECE037 Support children to connect with the natural environment
CHCECE057 Use collaborative practices to uphold child protection principles
CHCINM002 Meet community information needs

Admissions

Admission

Prerequisites No formal prerequisites specified in the accredited training package.
Language Requirements Students must demonstrate functional English suitable for early childhood contexts, including reading and interpreting service policies, understanding regulatory documents, and communicating clearly with children, families, and colleagues.
Literacy Requirements Students must have the literacy skills required to read and apply basic documentation such as safety procedures, children's routines, and policies, and to accurately complete observations, incident reports, and daily communication records.
Numeracy Requirements Students must demonstrate basic numeracy skills for tasks such as measuring and recording medication dosages, nutrition and hygiene practices, reading graphs, and performing routine calculations required in childcare settings.
Digital Literacy Requirements Students must have regular access to a computer with internet and basic software (PDF reader, browser, word processor). Students must also be able to access and effectively use e-learning tools, complete digital assessments, and use basic technologies relevant to early learning environments (e.g., tablets, electronic documentation).
Physical Requirements Students must be physically capable of participating in indoor and outdoor learning activities. This includes sitting on the floor, lifting small children, assisting with play and movement, and setting up equipment. Reasonable adjustments may be available for students with physical limitations—contact ITAC before enrolling.
Age Requirement Students must turn 16 in the calendar year of enrolment. Students under 18 require a career guidance interview with an ITAC trainer.
Location Students must reside in Australia.
Visa Status This course is not available to student visa holders (subclass 500). [Find CRICOS providers here]
Clearances Students must obtain the relevant working with children clearance for their state or territory (e.g., WWCC, Blue Card, WWVP). [Read more]
Disposition Requirements Students must demonstrate a suitable disposition for working with children, including appropriate behaviour, communication, attitude, reliability, professionalism, emotional maturity, and a commitment to ethical and safe conduct at all times.
Workplace Expectations Students must meet common workplace standards for early childhood settings, including being drug and alcohol-free, dressing appropriately, maintaining personal hygiene, and presenting in a professional, respectful, and safe manner when attending placement.
ITAC Discretion ITAC reserves the right to accept or decline enrolment based on any factor it reasonably considers relevant, including capability, support needs, conduct, or course suitability.

Admission

Prerequisites Students must hold either CHC30121 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care or CHC30113 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care.
Language Requirements Students must demonstrate functional English suitable for early childhood leadership roles, including interpreting policies, writing curriculum documentation, communicating clearly with staff, families, and external parties, and understanding regulatory requirements.
Literacy Requirements Students must have the literacy skills required to read, interpret, and apply regulatory documents such as the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF), National Quality Standards (NQS), and operational policies, as well as effectively document observations, assessments, and quality improvement plans.
Numeracy Requirements Students must demonstrate numeracy skills sufficient for calculating educator-to-child ratios, interpreting basic operational budgets, accurately managing medication dosages, nutrition measurements, and recording children's developmental progress data.
Digital Literacy Requirements Students require regular access to a computer with internet connectivity and basic software (PDF reader, browser, word processor). Students must competently navigate childcare management systems, complete digital assessments, document children's learning electronically, and communicate effectively using digital technologies relevant to early childhood environments.
Physical Requirements Students must be physically capable of participating in all indoor and outdoor learning activities. This includes sitting on the floor, lifting small children, setting up equipment, responding quickly to emergencies, and actively supervising children's play. Reasonable adjustments may be available for physical limitations—contact ITAC before enrolling.
Age Requirement Students must turn 18 in the calendar year of enrolment.
Location Students must reside in Australia.
Visa Status This course is not available to student visa holders (subclass 500). [Find CRICOS providers here]
Clearances Students must obtain the relevant working with children clearance for their state or territory (e.g. WWCC, Blue Card, WWVP). [Read more]
Disposition Requirements Students must demonstrate a suitable disposition for working at a leadership level in early childhood settings, including appropriate communication, professionalism, reliability, emotional maturity, respectful interactions, and commitment to ethical and safe conduct at all times.
Workplace Expectations Students must meet professional standards expected in early childhood services, including being drug and alcohol-free, dressing professionally, maintaining personal hygiene, and presenting in a professional, respectful, and safe manner during placement.
ITAC Discretion ITAC reserves the right to accept or decline enrolment based on any factor it reasonably considers relevant, including capability, support needs, conduct, or course suitability.

We offer the nationally recognised CHC30121 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care, the CHC50121 Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care, and a Childcare Combo, which combines both into one streamlined enrolment.

  • Certificate III: ~6 months
  • Diploma: ~6 months
  • Combo: ~9 months

All courses are self-paced and include a generous 18-month enrolment window to fit your lifestyle.

Yes. All courses include a real-world placement in a registered early childhood service:

  • Certificate III: 160 hours
  • Diploma: 280 hours
  • Combo: 440 hours

You’ll work with babies, toddlers, and preschoolers under trainer guidance. Placement assistance and visits are included.

Yes. Our courses are designed for adult learners who are balancing study with work, family, or other responsibilities. Study at your own pace, any time.

Yes. All qualifications are approved for Youth Allowance, Austudy, and Abstudy. Contact Centrelink to confirm your eligibility.

  • Choose Certificate III if you're new to childcare or want an entry-level role.
  • Choose Diploma if you want to lead programs, mentor staff, or work toward leadership positions.
  • Choose the Combo to maximise your skills, employability, and long-term career options.

  • A dedicated local trainer
  • Weekly live webinars
  • Email and phone support
  • Placement support and on-site visits
  • Job search assistance through our JobAssist program

No. All assessments are practical and job-focused. You’ll complete:

  • Short-answer tasks and real-world scenarios
  • Practical projects (e.g. learning plans, sustainability activities)
  • Placement portfolio and video tasks
  • On-site assessments observed by your trainer

You’ll be qualified for roles such as:

  • Educator / Early Childhood Educator
  • Lead Educator / Room Leader (Diploma only)
  • Family Day Care Educator or Coordinator
  • Assistant Director or Centre Director (with experience)
  • Preschool Assistant or Kindergarten Support Worker

Yes. Enrolments are open year-round. Once your enrolment is approved and your deposit is processed, you can begin straight away.

Course Includes:

  • Graduate in 6–9 Months Yes
  • Online With Placement Yes
  • Start Anytime Yes
  • Trusted by 10,000+ Yes
  • Australia Wide Support Yes
  • Centrelink Approved Yes
  • Interest-Free Plans Yes
  • No Exams or Essays Yes
  • 30-Day Free Trial Yes
  • Materials Included Yes
Support When You Need It

MEET YOUR LOCAL TRAINERS

Andrea

Andrea is a qualified primary teacher with 14 years' experience in classroom and leadership roles. She loves camping trips and spending family time at the beach.

Kylie W

Kylie is a degree-qualified early childhood teacher with over 10 years in adult education. She enjoys the variety of her role and planning family adventures.

Lisa

Lisa is an experienced early childhood teacher who balances teaching and training roles. At home, she's happiest spending time with her family and their beloved pets.

Candace

Candace is a qualified primary teacher with nearly 10 years' classroom experience. She enjoys helping students succeed and relaxing at the beach with family and friends.

Aliesha

Aliesha has over 20 years' experience in education and loves supporting ITAC students and staff. Outside work, she enjoys camping trips and time with her grandchildren.

Kylie S

Kylie has nearly 12 years' experience supporting primary students, especially in literacy. She loves helping others achieve their goals and sharing the joy of reading.

Carolyn

Carolyn is a degree-qualified teacher who also works as a university lecturer. She enjoys helping future teacher aides and spending weekends cheering on her son at swim meets.

Catherine

Catherine has dedicated 25 years to supporting students with learning difficulties and disabilities. Outside work, her family life keeps her smiling—and she adores giraffes!

Shelley

Shelley is a qualified special education teacher who enjoys supporting students with diverse learning needs. She’s passionate about music and loves combining creativity with teaching.


Carla

Carla is an experienced primary teacher and former Assistant Principal specialising in special education. Outside work, she enjoys painting and beach adventures with family.

Joy

Joy is an experienced primary and specialist education teacher who's passionate about education support and technology. She loves reading, travel, and discovering amazing food along the way.

Margie

Margie is a secondary-trained teacher experienced in special education and vocational training. She loves exploring Queensland’s countryside and beaches in her free time.

Nationwide Support:
Trusted by Thousands of Students Every Year

Ready to get started?
Enrol today with local trainer support.

Enrolments Open
  • shape
  • shape
  • shape
  • shape