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Early Childhood Education and Care Combo – CHC30125 + CHC50125

The Early Childhood Education and Care Combo combines the CHC30125 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care and the CHC50125 Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care into one planned study pathway.

The Combo is suited to students who want both the entry-level foundation and the higher-level educator focus of the Diploma. Students complete the Certificate III component first, then progress into the Diploma component. This pathway may suit students who want broader long-term options in early childhood education and care, including progression towards qualified educator, supervisory or leadership roles.

The course is delivered online and self-paced, with structured learning materials and support from experienced local trainers. Many students aim to complete within 12–18 months, depending on their prior experience, weekly study routine, workplace access, assessment progress, support needs and placement arrangements. [Read more about course duration]

As part of the program, students complete workplace experience in a registered early childhood service. ITAC also conducts a placement site visit for students, providing an additional layer of support and quality assurance during the practical component of the course.

Students develop broad job-ready skills, including:

  • supporting child development through play-based learning
  • supporting children’s health, safety, hygiene and wellbeing
  • creating inclusive and culturally safe learning environments
  • building positive relationships with children, families and colleagues
  • observing and documenting children’s learning and development
  • planning and evaluating curriculum using approved learning frameworks
  • supporting educator teams and contributing to professional practice
  • working within national regulations, service policies and quality standards

The Early Childhood Education and Care Combo reflects current early childhood practice, including the Early Years Learning Framework, and prepares students for broader opportunities in approved early childhood education and care services.

Early Childhood Education and Care Combo

  • Qualification
    CHC30125 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care and
    CHC50125 Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care
  • Accreditation
    Nationally recognised qualifications
  • Availability
    Available in WA, VIC, NSW, QLD, SA and ACT
  • Duration
    Many students complete within 12–18 months, depending on their experience, study routine, workplace role, support needs and placement arrangements. [Read more]
  • Enrolment
    Flexible 12-month enrolment period to support self-paced study, workplace evidence collection and common life interruptions.
  • Content
    Broad early childhood education and care skills, including child development, play-based learning, health and safety, inclusion, relationships with families, observation and documentation, curriculum planning, educational leadership, compliance, quality practice and team support
  • Placement
    Workplace requirements are completed in a registered early childhood service, including Certificate III and Diploma workplace evidence, with placement support, trainer guidance and required workplace assessment. [Read more]
  • Study Mode
    Online Mode: enrol anytime, with flexible self-paced study. [Read more]
  • Recognition of
    Prior Learning
    Available for highly experienced learners. [Read more]
  • Support
    Experienced trainers, regular check-ins, weekly live webinars, assessment support, placement guidance, site visits and tutorials in selected areas. [Read more]
  • Module-Based Learning
    Related course content is organised into work-like study modules, so students can work through connected topics and avoid unnecessary repetition. [Read more]
  • Fees & Payment
    $4,800. Interest-free payment plans available. Eligible students may be able to access Centrelink student payments. Includes a 7-day obligation-free evaluation period and required course materials. [See Fees tab]

The Early Childhood Education and Care Combo combines the CHC30125 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care and the CHC50125 Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care into one enrolment pathway.

Students complete the Certificate III component first, then progress into the Diploma component. Each qualification has its own requirements, assessments and workplace evidence. The Combo does not remove the need to complete either qualification.

The benefit of the Combo is that both qualifications are packaged into one planned study pathway with the same provider, the same support model, familiar trainers, a consistent assessment structure and a smoother transition between courses. This can reduce administrative repetition and make the overall study process easier to manage.

Yes. Students who successfully complete all course requirements receive both nationally recognised qualifications:

  • CHC30125 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care
  • CHC50125 Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care

The Certificate III component must be completed first because entry into the Diploma requires completion of an approved Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care.

Yes. The Early Childhood Combo is suitable for people seeking early childhood education and care roles in approved services.

Job titles vary by employer and state. Common roles may include early childhood educator, childcare educator, assistant educator, Diploma-qualified educator, room leader, lead educator, educational leader, responsible person and other senior early childhood roles.

The Combo gives students one planned pathway from entry-level educator skills through to more advanced Diploma-level practice.

Students still complete the Certificate III component and the Diploma component, including the required learning, assessment, workplace evidence and placement requirements for both qualifications. The advantage is that the pathway is organised as one continuous program rather than two disconnected enrolments.

This means students benefit from one provider managing the full pathway, a familiar online learning system, a consistent assessment style, continuity with trainers and support staff, clearer planning from Certificate III into Diploma, less administrative repetition between courses and a more straightforward study sequence.

The Combo may also be better value than enrolling in the two qualifications separately.

Many students complete the Early Childhood Combo within 12–18 months, depending on their experience, study routine, workplace role, support needs and placement arrangements.

Experienced adult learners may progress more efficiently where they already have relevant life, work, parenting, childcare, volunteering or prior study experience. Students who are newer to study, early childhood workplaces, Diploma-level expectations or professional documentation may take closer to 18 months, or longer where needed.

Some students aim to complete within 12 months. This is most realistic for students who study consistently, complete assessments steadily, organise workplace access early and already have relevant early childhood experience.

The course is self-paced and includes a flexible enrolment period. Extensions are available for a published monthly fee.

Completion in a specified time frame is not guaranteed.

Yes. The Early Childhood Combo includes workplace requirements across both qualifications in a registered early childhood education and care service.

Students complete the Certificate III workplace component first, then complete the Diploma workplace component after progressing into the Diploma stage. The Diploma component requires regular access to a suitable early childhood service and is typically completed when students are employed in the sector.

During workplace learning, students apply their skills in real early childhood settings. This may include supporting care routines, working with babies, toddlers and preschool-aged children, observing children’s development, contributing to play-based learning, planning curriculum, supporting quality practice and working under the direction of experienced early childhood professionals.

An ITAC trainer and assessor visits each student during placement to provide guidance, advice and support, and to collect evidence of the student’s practical skills and workplace competency.

Students must gain experience with babies, toddlers and preschool-aged children. This includes access to babies under 12 months, toddlers aged 13–23 months and children aged 2–6 years.

This ensures students gain practical experience across the early childhood age range and can meet the workplace requirements of both qualifications. Students must complete these requirements in a suitable registered early childhood service.

ITAC provides placement support and can assist students to secure a suitable early childhood service placement for the Certificate III component.

For the Diploma component, students are expected to have regular access to a suitable early childhood service and are typically already employed in the sector. This is important because Diploma-level assessment requires ongoing access to workplace routines, documentation, planning, programming, quality practices and educator team interactions.

Students who are not currently working in early childhood education and care should contact ITAC before enrolling to discuss whether the Combo is suitable for their circumstances.

Students usually begin the Certificate III workplace component after completing the main Certificate III theory components. This helps ensure they are prepared for workplace practice and can complete workplace tasks without unnecessary delays.

The Diploma component is completed after the Certificate III component. Diploma-level workplace evidence is completed later in the course, usually through the student’s existing early childhood workplace, once they have developed the required foundation skills and are ready to complete higher-level planning, documentation, compliance and leadership-related tasks.

Your trainer will guide you based on your course progress, readiness, workplace role, service suitability and any placement requirements that apply in your state or territory.

No. The HLTAID012 Provide First Aid in an education and care setting unit is required for the qualification, but it is not delivered by ITAC and is not included in the course fee.

Students must complete HLTAID012 with a suitable external training provider and submit their Statement of Attainment to ITAC for credit transfer.

Students receive support from experienced trainers, weekly live webinars, phone and email support, placement guidance, assessment support and access to ITAC’s online learning materials.

Students may also access targeted support programs where suitable, including EnablePath, Dandjoo Support, YouthWay, Academic Engagement Program, JobAssist and other student support services. These programs support students with different learning needs, cultural support needs, youth transition needs, career goals and personal circumstances.

No. The Early Childhood Combo does not use formal exams or academic essays.

Assessment is practical and workplace-focused. Tasks may include short answer questions, projects, curriculum planning tasks, developing resources, short video presentations, workplace documentation, portfolio evidence, supervisor feedback and trainer observation during placement.

Yes. The course is designed for adult learners who may be balancing study with work, parenting, volunteering or other responsibilities.

Study is self-paced, so students can progress more quickly during quieter periods and slow down when life is busy. The key requirement is that all assessment and placement requirements must be completed to the required standard within the enrolment period.

Graduates may apply for roles such as early childhood educator, childcare educator, assistant educator, Diploma-qualified educator, room leader, lead educator, educational leader, responsible person, assistant director and similar roles in approved early childhood education and care services.

Employment requirements vary between states, territories, service types and individual employers. If in doubt or unsure of employment requirements, please contact local employers or the relevant regulator for advice prior to enrolling.

Both qualifications in the Early Childhood Combo are nationally recognised.

This means the qualifications are recognised across Australia, although employment requirements, service requirements and regulatory expectations may vary between states, territories and employers.

The Certificate III is suitable for students who are new to early childhood education and care or who want an entry-level childcare qualification.

The Diploma may suit students who already hold the required Certificate III and want to develop more advanced skills for room leadership, programming, supervision or higher-responsibility roles.

The Early Childhood Combo may suit students who want one planned pathway from entry-level early childhood practice through to Diploma-level skills and broader long-term options.

ITAC uses an integrated course structure because real early childhood work does not happen one unit at a time. Educators use communication, safety, supervision, care routines, inclusion, documentation, child development, curriculum planning and family communication skills together throughout the day.

The integrated structure groups related skills and knowledge into practical learning modules. This reduces unnecessary repetition while still requiring students to complete all required training, assessment, placement and workplace evidence for both qualifications.

ITAC has supported tens of thousands of students across Australia and designs courses for adult learners who need structure, flexibility and practical support.

Students choose ITAC because the Combo includes two nationally recognised qualifications, provides a planned pathway from Certificate III to Diploma, is delivered online with structured support, includes practical workplace requirements and site visits, and is supported by experienced trainers and student support services.

Units of Competency for the Early Childhood 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 Encourage understanding of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples' cultures
CHCECE055 Meet legal and ethical obligations in children’s education and care
CHCECE056 Work effectively in children’s education and care
CHCPRT001 Identify and respond to children and young people at risk
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

Fees & Payments

  • Course Fee:
    $4,800
  • Payment Plan:
    Interest-free options available
  • Transaction fees:
    None
  • Centrelink:
    Eligible for student payments during study
  • Materials:
    Included – no additional costs
  • Textbook:
    PDF version provided free; optional paperback available for purchase
  • Evaluation Period:
    7 days
  • Terms and Conditions:
    Enrolment Terms and Conditions
    Direct Debit Terms and Conditions

Interest-Free Payment Options

Plan $/Pay Total
Weekly x 52 $92.31 $4,800.00
Weekly x 26 $184.62 $4,800.00
Fortnightly x 26 $184.62 $4,800.00
Fortnightly x 12 $400.00 $4,800.00
Fortnightly x 6 $800.00 $4,800.00
Monthly x 12 $400.00 $4,800.00
Monthly x 6 $800.00 $4,800.00

Admission

Prerequisites No formal prerequisites specified in the accredited training package. However, students must complete the Certificate III component (CHC30125 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care) and be issued the qualification prior to commencing the Diploma-level (CHC50125 Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care) phase of the program.
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.

Course Highlights

  • Graduate in 12-18 months
  • Online with placement
  • Site visit included
  • Start anytime
  • Local trainer support
  • Trusted by 30,000+ students
  • Centrelink approved
  • Interest-free payment plans
  • No exams or essays
  • Materials included
Support When You Need It

MEET YOUR LOCAL TRAINERS

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.

Tahlia

Tahlia is an experienced Early Childhood Educator with over 13 years’ experience in the industry. Tahlia loves to be outdoors exploring with her family.

Louise

Louise has many years of experience in WA schools and has lectured at TAFE and private providers. Louise enjoys nature, reading and spending time with her cat, Jasper.

Carolyn

Carolyn is a degree-qualified teacher who and university lecturer. She enjoys helping future educators and 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!

Natasha

Natasha is an experienced educator with more than 10 years’ experience. She is especially passionate about Bush Kinder and enjoys running with her dog.

Krystal

Krystal has over 23 years of experience in childcare and a strong passion for educating. In her spare time, she enjoys shopping and spending quality time with her family.

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.

Amy

Amy holds an early childhood degree and has over 20 years’ experience in the sector, including as a director. She enjoys live music and meaningful conversations.

Joy

Joy is an experienced primary and specialist education teacher. She loves reading, travel, and discovering amazing food along the way.

Margie

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

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