Childcare Courses

What is childcare?

Childhood education and care is about more than just supervision — it’s about supporting early childhood development in a nurturing, safe, and inclusive environment. While working in long-daycare, kindergarten, or after-school programs, you’ll play a vital role in shaping a child’s early childhood journey. Inclusive practices are essential for supporting children from diverse backgrounds, ensuring every child feels valued and understood.

Early childhood education focuses on creating learning experiences that are responsive to each child’s needs. You’ll support children’s social, emotional, physical, and intellectual growth through holistic learning experiences that are age-appropriate and engaging.

Why study child care?

If you want a meaningful, flexible, and in-demand career, studying childhood education and care is a smart move. Here’s why:

• Growing demand: The Australian Government predicts 184,000+ new roles in early childhood education and care over the next five years.
• Flexible learning options: You can complete childcare courses online, part-time or in-class.
• Nationally recognised qualifications: Begin with a Certificate III, which is the minimum qualification required to start a career in early childhood education, and work your way up to a diploma or degree.
• Make a difference: Every day, you’ll impact children’s lives and support their growth through holistic learning experiences.

Which childcare course is best for you?

The best childcare course depends on your goals. Many students choose a care course to gain the knowledge and practical skills needed for early childhood education. Here are your main options:

Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care

This is the ideal starting point if you’re entering the industry. A Certificate III provides essential knowledge in early childhood education, supporting children’s play, and building positive and respectful relationships. Each student enrolled in the Certificate III course has access to dedicated support services, learning resources, and a community environment to assist them throughout their studies. You’ll also complete 120 hours of work placement in a regulated care setting.

Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care

Step into leadership and planning roles with this advanced qualification. You’ll learn to develop curriculum, lead teams, and meet legal and ethical obligations within early childhood environments.

By completing the diploma, you can access a wider range of career opportunities and advance your professional development in early childhood education and community services.

Diploma of School Age Education and Care

Focuses on caring for school-aged children in before/after school and vacation programs that operate outside of regular school hours. Still grounded in early childhood education principles, it adapts to the developmental needs of older children.

Bachelor of Early Childhood Education

A four-year degree that qualifies you as a teacher for children aged 0–5. It includes placements in kindergartens and child care centres and prepares graduates who have completed the degree to lead early childhood programs with a strong foundation in children’s education.

What qualifications do I need to be a child care worker?

To work in early childhood, you’ll need:

1. A nationally recognised qualification, like a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care
2. A minimum of 120 hours of supervised placement
3. A valid Working With Children Check
4. A First Aid certificate, covering CPR, asthma, and anaphylaxis
5. Awareness of workplace health and safety responsibilities

These qualifications are often necessary for employment in government organisations and public sector roles.

Can I study childcare courses online?

Yes! There are many childcare courses online that offer flexibility for learners balancing work, family, personal commitments, or other responsibilities. Studying childhood education and care online doesn’t mean missing out — you’ll still complete practical placement hours and gain real-world experience.

Are childcare courses government-funded?

Many childcare courses are subsidised through JobTrainer or state-based initiatives. These programs can cover part or all of your course fees. Check with your provider to see if you’re eligible.

What skills do you need to work in child care?

Working in early childhood settings requires a unique mix of skills and personal qualities. It is essential to understand the needs and development of children to provide effective care and support. These include:

• Effective communication – to build positive and respectful relationships with children, families, and your team
• Observation and reflection – to tailor learning to each child’s needs in line with early childhood education frameworks
• Organisation – essential for managing routines, programs, and compliance with legal and ethical obligations
• Creativity and energy – to design engaging experiences that support children’s play and development
• Patience and empathy – every child is different; you’ll need to support diverse learning styles and needs
• Responsibility – especially in areas like safety, workplace health, hygiene, and wellbeing

What jobs are available in child care?

There’s strong demand for skilled professionals across the early childhood sector. Some of the key roles include:

• Child care worker
• Child care assistant
• Child care centre manager
• Early childhood educator
• Teacher aide
• Special needs assistant

What is ACECQA and why does it matter?

ACECQA stands for the Australian Children’s Education & Care Quality Authority. It’s an independent national authority that supports the implementation of the National Quality Framework (NQF) for early childhood education and care.

ACECQA approves qualifications for early childhood educators and ensures providers deliver high-quality care and education. We partner with education providers whose courses are ACECQA-approved, ensuring they meet the standards required for employment in the sector.

Is a career in early childhood right for you?

If you love working with children, have a natural curiosity, and care deeply about their growth, early childhood education could be your calling. It’s a role where every day counts — and where your impact lasts a lifetime.

Browse courses in childcare and take the next step toward a rewarding future.