A teacher aide supporting learning in an Australian classroom.

Education Support Combo

The Education Support Combo combines the CHC30221 Certificate III in School Based Education Support and the CHC40225 Certificate IV in School Based Education Support into one study program. It is ITAC’s most popular education support option and is designed for people who want broader skills and greater employment flexibility in Australian schools.

The Education Support Combo is suited to students who want both the entry-level foundation of Certificate III and the higher-level support focus of Certificate IV. It may suit students who want a stronger pathway into teacher aide, education assistant, SSO, LSO and classroom support 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 6–12 months, depending on their prior experience, weekly study routine, assessment progress and placement arrangements. [Read more about course duration]

As part of the program, students complete a school placement in a registered Australian school. 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 students with literacy, numeracy and general learning
  • supporting students with disability, learning difficulties and additional needs
  • contributing to individual education plans and support strategies
  • adapting learning materials for diverse students
  • supporting positive behaviour and student engagement
  • assisting in inclusive classrooms across different year levels
  • working collaboratively with teachers, support staff and families
  • following legal, ethical, safety and school policy requirements

The Education Support Combo reflects current school-based education support practice and prepares students for varied teacher aide, education assistant and classroom support roles in schools across Australia.

Education Support Combo

  • Qualification
    CHC30221 Certificate III in School Based Education Support and
    CHC40225 Certificate IV in School Based Education Support
  • Accreditation
    Nationally recognised qualifications
  • Availability
    Australia-wide
  • Duration
    Many students complete within 6–12 months, depending on their experience, study routine, support needs and placement arrangements. [Read more]
  • Enrolment
    Flexible 12-month enrolment period to support self-paced study and common life interruptions
  • Content
    Broad education support skills, including literacy and numeracy support, positive behaviour support, inclusive education, student wellbeing, additional needs support, individual education plans, adapting learning materials, school policies and classroom safety
  • Placement
    Minimum 100 hours in a registered Australian school, with placement support, trainer guidance and a site visit for every student [Read more]
  • Study Mode
    Online Mode: enrol anytime, with flexible self-paced study. [Read more]
    Class Mode: dates to be confirmed.
  • Experienced Learner Mode
    Available for students with relevant prior experience. [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
    $4,600. Interest-free payment plans available. Eligible students may be able to access Centrelink student payments. Includes a 7-day obligation-free evaluation period and all required course materials. [See Fees tab]

Fees & Payments

  • Course Fee:
    $4,600
  • 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 $88.46 $4,600.00
Weekly x 26 $176.92 $4,600.00
Fortnightly x 26 $176.92 $4,600.00
Fortnightly x 12 $383.33 $4,600.00
Fortnightly x 6 $766.67 $4,600.00
Monthly x 12 $383.33 $4,600.00
Monthly x 6 $766.67 $4,600.00
Monthly x 3 $1,500 / $1,550 / $1,550 $4,600.00

Important: While there are 15 units in the Certificate III and 17 in the Certificate IV, due to ITAC’s unique integrated structure, students only need to study 4 theory modules + placement requirements. Read more here.

Units of Competency for the Education Support Qualifications

CHCDIV001 Work with diverse people
CHCEDS033 Meet legal and ethical obligations in an education support environment
CHCEDS034 Contribute to the planning and implementation of educational programs
CHCEDS035 Contribute to student education in all developmental domains
CHCEDS036 Support the development of literacy and oral language skills
CHCEDS037 Support the development of numeracy skills
CHCEDS057 Support students with additional needs in the classroom
CHCEDS059 Contribute to the health, safety and wellbeing of students
CHCEDS060 Work effectively with students and colleagues
CHCEDS061 Support responsible student behaviour
CHCEDS041 Set up and sustain learning areas
HLTWHS001 Participate in workplace health and safety
CHCEDS048 Work with students in need of additional learning support
CHCEDS047 Assist in facilitation of student learning
CHCEDS058 Support the implementation of behaviour plans
CHCDIV001 Work with diverse people
CHCECE054 Encourage understanding of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Peoples cultures
CHCEDS033 Meet legal and ethical obligations in an education support environment
CHCEDS045 Support student mathematics learning
CHCEDS046 Support student literacy learning
CHCEDS047 Assist in facilitation of student learning
CHCEDS048 Work with students in need of additional learning support
CHCEDS051 Facilitate learning for students with disabilities
CHCEDS056 Provide support to students with autism spectrum disorder
CHCEDS058 Support the implementation of behaviour plans
CHCEDS059 Contribute to the health, safety and wellbeing of students
CHCPRP003 Reflect on and improve own professional practice
CHCPRT025 Identify and report children and young people at risk
CHCDIS018 Facilitate ongoing skills development using a person-centred approach
HLTWHS001 Participate in workplace health and safety
CHCEDS036 Support the development of literacy and oral language skills
CHCEDS061 Support responsible student behaviour

Admission

Prerequisites No formal prerequisites specified in the accredited training package.
Language Requirements Students must demonstrate functional English suitable for school-based education support contexts. This includes reading and interpreting school policies, understanding educational resources, and clearly communicating with students and colleagues.
Literacy Requirements Students must possess literacy skills sufficient to accurately read and apply basic educational documentation such as school policies, procedures, student records, and safety instructions, as well as complete written reports, observations, and routine communication records.
Numeracy Requirements Students must demonstrate basic numeracy skills required in education support contexts, including assisting students with calculations, measurements, simple data interpretation, and understanding basic educational graphs and charts.
Digital Literacy Requirements Students must have regular access to a computer with reliable internet and standard software (PDF reader, web browser, word processor). Basic digital skills include navigating online learning platforms, managing electronic documents, and confidently assisting students with educational technologies commonly used in schools, such as computers and tablets.
Physical Requirements Students must be physically capable of participating in learning activities inside and outside classrooms. Typical tasks include assisting students during classroom activities, supervising playground activities, engaging in sports and games, and safely moving educational equipment. Reasonable adjustments may be possible for students with physical limitations—contact ITAC to discuss your needs before enrolment.
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, professional communication, reliability, emotional maturity, and a commitment to ethical and safe conduct at all times.
Workplace Expectations Students must meet standard workplace expectations for Australian schools, including appropriate dress, personal hygiene, being drug and alcohol-free, and presenting professionally and respectfully during placement.
ITAC Discretion ITAC reserves the right to accept or decline enrolment based on relevant factors, including suitability, capability, support needs, or course appropriateness.

The Education Support Combo combines the CHC30221 Certificate III in School Based Education Support and the CHC40225 Certificate IV in School Based Education Support into one integrated study program.

It is designed for people who want broad teacher aide, education assistant, SSO, LSO and classroom support skills, including general classroom support, literacy and numeracy support, behaviour support, inclusion and support for students with disability or additional learning needs.

The Certificate III is suitable for students who are new to education support or who want an entry-level teacher aide qualification.

The Certificate IV may suit students who already have school experience or who want to develop more advanced support skills, particularly for students with disability, additional learning needs or more complex classroom support needs.

The Education Support Combo is often the best option for students who want broader skills, stronger long-term value and more flexibility when applying for teacher aide roles.

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

  • CHC30221 Certificate III in School Based Education Support
  • CHC40225 Certificate IV in School Based Education Support

Yes. The Education Support Combo is suitable for people seeking teacher aide and education assistant roles in Australian schools.

Job titles vary by state and employer. Common titles include teacher aide, education assistant, education support worker, school support officer, student support officer, learning support officer, integration aide and classroom support assistant.

The Combo gives students a broader skillset than completing only one qualification. It covers both foundational education support skills and more advanced support skills, including additional needs, disability support, behaviour support and individualised learning.

It may also be better value than enrolling in the two qualifications separately, because related skills and knowledge are grouped into one integrated study program.

Many students complete the Education Support Combo within 6–12 months, depending on their experience, study routine, support needs and placement arrangements.

Experienced adult learners may progress more quickly where they already have relevant life, work, parenting, volunteering, school-based or prior study experience. Students who are newer to study, the workforce or school-based environments may take closer to 12 months, or longer where needed.

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

Yes, some students aim to complete in about 6 months. This is most realistic for students who study consistently, complete assessments steadily, arrange placement early and already have relevant experience with children, schools, community work, administration, caring roles or workplace communication.

Completion in 6 months is not guaranteed. Students must complete all required learning, assessment tasks, workplace evidence and placement requirements to the required standard.

Yes. The Education Support Combo includes a minimum 100-hour work placement in a registered Australian school.

During placement, you apply your learning in a real classroom environment. This may include supporting literacy and numeracy, assisting students with different learning needs, adapting learning activities, supporting positive behaviour, following school policies and working under the direction of teachers and school staff.

Yes. ITAC provides a site visit for every student as part of the placement and assessment process.

The site visit allows an ITAC trainer or assessor to observe practical skills, support the student, liaise with the workplace where needed and collect required assessment evidence. This helps maintain course quality and supports employer confidence in ITAC graduates.

ITAC provides placement support and can assist students to secure a suitable school placement.

Students are also encouraged to use their own contacts where appropriate, such as a local school, their child’s school, a school where they volunteer, or a school recommended by someone they know. This can sometimes lead to a smoother placement and stronger employment opportunities.

Where ITAC assists with placement, students may need to be flexible with location, days, school availability and timing. This may mean travelling further than preferred.

Most students begin placement after completing the main theory components of the course. This helps ensure they are prepared for classroom practice and can complete workplace tasks without unnecessary delays.

Your trainer will guide you based on your course progress, readiness, school availability and any placement requirements that apply in your state or territory.

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, 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 Education Support Combo does not use formal exams or academic essays.

Assessment is practical and workplace-focused. Tasks may include short answer questions, projects, 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 teacher aide, education assistant, education support worker, school support officer, student support officer, learning support officer, integration aide, classroom support assistant and similar school-based roles.

The Combo may be particularly useful for students seeking broader employment flexibility, including roles involving general classroom support, literacy and numeracy, behaviour support, disability support and additional learning needs.

Employment requirements vary between states, territories, school systems and individual employers. If in doubt or unsure of employment requirements, please contact your local school for advice prior to enrolling.

Yes. Both qualifications in the Education Support Combo are nationally recognised.

This means the qualifications are recognised across Australia, although job titles, school requirements and employment processes vary between states, territories and employers.

ITAC uses an integrated course structure because real school work does not happen one unit at a time. Teacher aides use communication, safety, inclusion, behaviour support, documentation, learning support and collaboration skills together in the classroom all at the same time.

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 specialises in education support training and has supported tens of thousands of students across Australia.

Students choose ITAC because the program includes two nationally recognised qualifications, is purpose-built for teacher aide and education assistant roles, is delivered online with structured support, includes a site visit for every student, and is supported by experienced trainers in major states.

Course Highlights

  • Complete in 6–12 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.

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