The Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care is a nationally accredited course for those looking for the skills and expertise required for a successful and rewarding career working with young children aged up to six years. It covers all the relevant health and safety, nutrition, communication and care-related skills you will need to be awarded as a Level 3 Early Childhood Educator (minimum entry qualification for domestic students to work in the industry). The Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care at Swinburne offers practical instruction and workplace experiences. Students undertake placement - two placements of two weeks/four days per week, giving them excellent workplace experience. This hands-on approach, where you will be taught by experienced practitioners, will give you a true understanding of how to contribute in a work environment. It aims to ensure you learn the critical skills and develop the confidence employers will recognise and value, not just the minimum qualification required. Whether you want to work in pre-school, long day care, out-of-school-hours care, family day care, or even as a nanny, you will be expected to professionally care for and communicate with children. You will learn about supporting play and learning, basic developmental needs, and about providing food and basic health services. This qualification reflects the role of workers in a range of early childhood education settings who work within the requirements of the Education and Care Services National Regulations and the National Quality Standard. These support the implementation of an approved learning framework, and support children's well-being. Depending on the setting, educators may work under direct supervision or autonomously. Students who successfully complete the Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care may apply for the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CHC50113) with 16 credits towards the 28 units of the Diploma qualification. Career opportunities Graduates may find employment in a range of children's services, including long day care (zero to six years), occasional care (zero to six years) and family day care and kindergartens. The Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care is a minimum entry qualification for domestic students seeking work in childcare in Australia. Aims and objectives To equip students with the skills and expertise to work in the early childhood sector, and to allow students to achieve the minimum qualification required for working in the early childhood field in Australia.