Course overview
The Certificate III in Education Support and Certificate IV in Education Support dual qualification, will equip you with the skills required to support students with different developmental issues, and the knowledge needed to guide responsible behaviour of children and young people in a safe and supportive environment.
You will also learn how to assist Teachers in delivering planned education programs, support the development of literacy, numeracy and oral skills, ensure the learning environment is inclusive and relevant, support and protect children and young people who are at risk of harm, ensure the effective functioning of a classroom and understand and apply a range of principles and processes to facilitate student learning.
Upon completion of this course, you will be qualified to work as a Teacher Aide, Education Assistant or Education Officer. You may also choose to work as a Special Needs Teacher Aide, assisting Teachers in educating children with learning difficulties. Across all roles, you will encourage participation in classroom and other school activities to develop the skill sets and increase the confidence of children.
Job outcomes
- Teacher Aide/Assistant
- Special Needs Teacher Aide
- Inclusion Support Aide
- Support Worker
- Education Assistant
Recognition

Study method
- Online
- Blended
- In-class
Duration study load
Certificate III in Education Support and Certificate IV in Education Support dual qualification students have up to 24 months to complete their studies.
Entry requirements
Education
You will need to have completed year 12, or equivalent. Equivalency can be demonstrated by one of the following:
- A qualification at Certificate II level or higher OR
- 2 years of industry experience in a role that requires the use of written documentation and communication
Minimum Age
You will need to be at least 16 years old. If you are under 18 your enrolment form will need to be signed by a parent
or guardian.
Residency Status
You will need to be a permanent Australian resident or equivalent.
Computer Requirements
In order to complete the on-line part of the course you will need regular access to the following:
Computer: Laptop or desktop computer with working speakers or headphone points
Internet: High speed internet such as Broadband or ADSL, T1/T2, fibre optic or cable
(Dial-up access will be significantly slower and is not recommended)Windows : Operating system – Windows XP or Vista 7 or above
Internet Browser – Internet Explorer 7 or higher or the latest version of Google Chrome
MAC : Operating system: OS X 10.4 or later
Internet Browser – latest version of Google Chrome
Software: Flash, Adobe Reader, Microsoft Word (or Open Office which is free to download)
Work placement
These courses also require a minimum of 100 hours of work placement in an education environment and a supervisor able to sign off on practical demonstration elements. You will also be required to undertake the unit HLTAID003 Provide First Aid through an external provider.
Recognition of prior learning
Given that some students may already be able to demonstrate their competence in some units, a recognition of prior learning (RPL) assessment process may be available to students to recognise skills and knowledge that may have been gained through formal and informal training and/or learning, work experience and life experience.
Assessment
To be assessed as competent, learners need to provide evidence of their knowledge and skills relevant to the unit of competence. Assessment methods may include:
- Quizzes
- Short answer questions
- Assignments / Projects
- Observation Report
- Practical Assessment / Project
- Case Study / Role Play
- Logbook
- Practical work evidence through projects, activities and third party observation reports
Subjects
About Foundation Education
Foundation Education is one of the few Registered Training Organisations (RTO) in Australia who endeavour to deliver flexible online training solutions designed to fit our students’ lifestyle. Since 1999, we’ve been focused on providing excellence in Vocational Education and Training and building partnership networks that drives the quality of graduates across each industry, with our partner RTO, the Australian Institute of Personal Trainers (AIPT). With more than 60 nationally recognised certificate and diploma level courses on offer, the Foundation Education difference means:
- Flexible Online Study – Our courses are delivered online so you can study whenever and wherever suits you. This also gives you the flexibility to choose your course length – whether that be the full term of your course or completing your study in as little as six months.
- Dedicated Student Support – Our industry experienced Technical Advisors, Assessors and Support Officers will support you from enrollment through to graduation.
- Industry Relevant Courses – Course material is developed in consultation with industry experts to equip you with the job-ready skills and up-to-date knowledge required to support your career goals.
Foundation Education is a Registered Training Organisation (RTO Number – 22557)