How to Start a Childcare Career in Queensland (2026) with CHC30121 Certificate III

If you are someone who is dreaming of having a career in childcare and love kids and being around them makes you happy, then the CHC30121 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care from AET (Advanced Education and Training) is best for you. With the increasing demand for qualified early childhood educators in Queensland, this course is perfect to start your career in 2026. This nationally recognised course opens doors to a variety of opportunities to work with children of all ages. 

Why Choose a Childcare Career in Queensland?

Queensland is growing and has a range of vibrant communities that are continuing to invest in early childhood education that is quality. The requirement for trained childcare professionals continues to increase with more families returning to work and placing greater emphasis on child development. Childcare will give you the opportunity to create a positive impact on children’s lives, and you will be able to develop your own professional life while continuing to be an employee with job security.

What is the CHC30121 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care?

The CHC30121 Certificate III is a nationally verified qualification in Australia, which will provide you with the basic essential knowledge and practical skills required for work in early childhood care settings.

In addition to the areas of child health and safety, the course will provide essential information on the way these areas impact children’s development and provide the opportunity for parents to support the child’s natural play-based learning. When you finish this qualification, you will be job-ready in the areas of early childhood educator, childcare assistant, or support worker in childcare centres in Queensland.

CHC30121 Certificate III entry requirements and criteria

Good news: you don’t need any previous childcare experience before enrolling in a CHC30121 Certificate III. Most Registered Training Organisations (RTOs), including AET, only request

  •  Completion of minimum Year 10 or equivalent level of education (this is determined by each provider)
  •  Basic English Language Skills
  •  Genuine interest in working with children

 Some organisations may conduct an interview and or language assessment to confirm you are ready for both practical and theoretical components of the course.

What You Will Learn

CHC30121 Certificate III learning involves studying modules covering

  •  Child Development and Behaviour
  •  Health, Nutrition & Safety for Children
  •  Supporting Inclusion & Diversity
  •  Planning & Implementing Play-Based Learning
  •  Working in partnership with Families & Staff Members

These modules incorporate both classroom and work placement learning, allowing for increased confidence and competence when entering the workforce.

Practical Work Placement

The most critical component of your CHC30121 Certificate III is to gain real-life experience through a work placement. Most courses require students to complete approximately 120 hours to 240 hours of supervised practice within an Early Childhood Environment, therefore allowing students to apply their theoretical knowledge, build relationships with colleagues and use this as a stepping stone to employment post graduation.

Positions Available After Completing a Certificate III Level In Queensland

Once you have achieved your Certificate III Level qualification (Community Services), you will be able to gain employment in a variety of Childcare Services. Some examples include:

  • Long Day Care Centre
  • Family Day Care
  • Outside School Hours Care (O.S.H.C)
  • Early Intervention Programs

Once you finish your Certificate III level qualification, you’ll have the option to further your studies. Many of our students continue onto the Certificate IV level qualification (Diploma in Early Childhood), which allows them to apply for more senior roles such as Room Leader and Centre Director.

Employment Opportunities in Queensland

The childcare industry in Queensland is currently experiencing substantial growth. There are a significant number of opportunities available for Qualified Educators (E.N.E.S.) throughout both metropolitan areas and regional (country) areas. Employers require experienced, knowledgeable and competent staff who can support children’s all-round development, provide nurturing environments and liaise effectively with parents and families. With your CHC30121 Certificate III Level qualification, you will be well placed to gain employment in roles such as:

  • Early Childhood Educator
  • Child Care Assistant
  • Support Worker (Educator)
  • Educator within Outside School Hours Care (O.S.H.C) Programs

Preparing You to Get Started on Your Child Care Career

At AET, we offer a range of flexible study options to suit your personal lifestyle, including: Face-to-Face Classes; Online Learning; Blended Delivery. Our team of highly trained, experienced and qualified trainers provides you with ongoing assistance throughout your training, from your very first class through to securing your final placement.

We also provide Career Guidance and Job Placement Services to enable you to confidently step into the Child Care Workforce in Queensland.

Are You Prepared to Start Your Career in Childcare?

To launch your career in Childcare with a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care, you can obtain a CHC30121 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care, providing you with the opportunity for personal and professional growth while contributing positively to children and society. If you want to learn how to enrol and begin preparing for a rewarding career in childcare in 2026, contact AET now!