Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care RPL Course
High-quality early learning is one of the most influential factors in a child’s development, shaping their communication, behaviour, and sense of self in lasting ways. For those already working in early childhood education, formalising existing skills through Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is a practical and empowering next step in your career journey.
Work-based Training Get paid while you learn
Nationally Recognised CHC30121 Certification
Expert Trainers with Industry Experience
Across Australia, the early education sector continues to grow—fueled by increasing recognition of how profoundly the first five years shape a child’s learning, development, and wellbeing. As expectations rise, so too does the need for qualified educators whose real-world experience deserves formal recognition and professional validation.
If you've been working in early learning settings and want to turn that experience into a nationally recognised qualification, the Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care RPL offers a powerful and rewarding pathway. It’s designed for passionate educators already doing the work - allowing you to convert your experience into recognised credentials, meet industry standards, and open doors to new opportunities.
This course acknowledges your practical knowledge while expanding your understanding of key early childhood concepts. You'll strengthen your ability to support children’s health, development, and emotional wellbeing; build trusting relationships; and contribute to safe, inclusive learning environments. It also affirms your role in supporting learning through play, maintaining daily routines, and communicating effectively with families and colleagues.
The RPL process is structured yet flexible, giving you the chance to showcase your abilities through workplace evidence, supervisor reports, observations, and verbal reflection. It’s designed to honour your experience, minimising repetition while ensuring your skills align with the latest national standards in early childhood care.
Completing your Certificate III through RPL affirms the depth of your experience and strengthens your professional voice in the sector. This qualification enhances your credibility, supports your growth, and empowers you to continue making a lasting impact during a child’s most formative years.
Training Program
Students within this Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care RPL will undertake their learning and assessments in a mixed mode delivery method over 12 months which includes:
- Evidence Provided
- Verbal Questioning
- Evaluations
- Workplace Observations
- Third Party Reports
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care RPL Certification
Once successfully completed, students will be awarded the nationally accredited qualification CHC30121 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care RPL. Certificates are issued by Training Unlimited Pty Ltd (RTO ID 20891).
Student Handbook Refund PolicyRegister Now
Traineeship Partners
Our corporate partners are renowned leaders in the Early Childhood Education and Care sector, each committed to fostering the growth and development of young professionals. Through this partnership, they provide our trainees with unparalleled opportunities for hands-on experience and mentorship.
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care RPL Key Facts
No Waiting Lists - Complete an interview for eligibility to demonstrate previous experience.
No Resource Fees - Access all the required course materials and resources without any additional charges.
No Hidden Costs - Enjoy a transparent fee structure with no unexpected expenses during your course of study.
Work-Based Evidence - Provide evidence of competency with a mixture of face-to-face observations, conversations and referee reports.
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Course Length 12 months |
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Must have minimum of 2 years working in Childcare |
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Get Paid while you Learn |
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Flexible Study Options |
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Learn at your Own Pace |
Course Start Dates for Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care RPL
| Start Date | Location | Enrolment |
|---|---|---|
| Flexible Start Dates | Perth | Register Now |
Student Support Sessions
Join our monthly group support sessions, where you’ll have the opportunity to engage with expert trainers for individualised support, enhancing your learning journey and celebrating your growth and experiences.
| Course | Date | Time | Location |
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| Certificate III Traineeship | Tuesday 7th of July | 3pm-7pm | Mandurah – Location TBC |
|---|---|---|---|
| Certificate III Traineeship | Tuesday 7th of July | 3pm-7pm | Training Unlimited - Suite 13 (South), 2 Ambitious Link, Bibra Lake |
| Certificate III Traineeship | Tuesday 7th of July | 3pm-7pm | Dôme Warwick - 28/639 Beach Rd, Warwick |
| Certificate III Traineeship | Tuesday 4th of August | 3pm-7pm | Dôme Ellenbrook - 36 Main St, Ellenbrook |
| Certificate III Traineeship | Tuesday 4th of August | 3pm-7pm | Training Unlimited - Suite 13 (South), 2 Ambitious Link, Bibra Lake |
| Certificate III Traineeship | Tuesday 4th of August | 3pm-7pm | Dome Waikiki - 9 Gnangara Dr, Waikiki |
| Certificate III Traineeship | Tuesday 1st of September | 3pm-7pm | Dôme Warnneroo - Shop 34/950 Wanneroo Rd, Wanneroo |
| Certificate III Traineeship | Tuesday 1st of September | 3pm-7pm | Training Unlimited - Suite 13 (South), 2 Ambitious Link, Bibra Lake |
| Certificate III Traineeship | Tuesday 1st of September | 3pm-7pm | Mandurah – Location TBC |
| Certificate III Traineeship | Tuesday 6th of October | 3pm-7pm | Dôme Bassendean - West Rd, Bassendean |
| Certificate III Traineeship | Tuesday 6th of October | 3pm-7pm | Training Unlimited - Suite 13 (South), 2 Ambitious Link, Bibra Lake |
| Certificate III Traineeship | Tuesday 6th of October | 3pm-7pm | Dome Waikiki - 9 Gnangara Dr, Waikiki |
| Certificate III Traineeship | Tuesday 3rd of November | 3pm-7pm | Training Unlimited - Suite 13 (South), 2 Ambitious Link, Bibra Lake |
| Certificate III Traineeship | Tuesday 3rd of November | 3pm-7pm | Mandurah - Location TBC |
| Certificate III Traineeship | Tuesday 3rd of November | 3pm-7pm | Dôme Warwick - 28/639 Beach Rd, Warwick |
| Certificate III Traineeship | Tuesday 1st of December | 3pm-7pm | Dôme Ellenbrook - 36 Main St, Ellenbrook |
| Certificate III Traineeship | Tuesday 1st of December | 3pm-7pm | Training Unlimited - Suite 13 (South), 2 Ambitious Link, Bibra Lake |
| Certificate III Traineeship | Tuesday 1st of December | 3pm-7pm | Dome Waikiki - 9 Gnangara Dr, Waikiki |
If you have any questions regarding these sessions, or would like to RSVP for a session please contact info@trainingunlimited.com.au. We ask that you RSVP so we know how many students to expect and can plan accordingly.
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care RPL Entry Requirements
To enrol in the Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care RPL, the following requirements need to be met -
- Educational Background - Hold completion of WACE General or ATAR (Minimum Grade C) or equivalent and are no longer at secondary school; except SBAT traineeship enrolments.
- Employment History - Educators will need to have been working in childcare for a minimum of 2 years and provide relevant documents as evidence including but not limited to Resume, previous qualifications and transcripts, professional development records and references.
- Current Employment - Are employed on a part-time or fulltime basis undertaking a minimum 15 hours a week.
- English Proficiency - You must have with suitable skills in language, numeracy and literacy for a Certificate III level course. See more information at https://www.aqf.edu.au/aqf-levels
- Physical Fitness - A reasonable level of fitness and flexibility is necessary to carry out manual handling tasks.
- Working with Children Check - You must hold a current Working with Children Check. This is essential for all people engaging in child-related work. Application forms can be obtained from any Post Office and lodgement requires 100 points of identification. The application receipt is proof a person has a pending application and, in most cases, allows them to start or continue 'child-related work'.
- Unique Student Identifier (USI) - You will need to provide your USI number. If you don't have one, you can apply for it online.
- Technical Requirements - You will need access to a computer and a reliable internet connection.
- Residency Status - You are currently a resident of Western Australia.
- Eligible Visas - The only visas that are eligible for qualification courses are listed below -
NOTE: If you are on a visa that is not on this list, consider upskilling with an online course.Australian Permanent Residency
Subclass 132 Business Talent Visa
Subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme
Subclass 187 Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme
Subclass 188 Business Innovation & Investment Visa
Subclass 189 Skilled Independent Visa
Subclass 190 Skilled Nominated Visa
Subclass 801 Partner VisaAustralian Temporary Residency
Subclass 050 and 051 Bridging Visa E where the visa holder has made a valid application for a visa of subclass 785 or 790
Subclass 309 Partner (Provisional)
Subclass 444 Special Category Visa (New Zealand citizen)
Subclass 785 Temporary Protection Visa
Subclass 820 Partner Visa
Secondary visa holder of Subclass 457 Temporary Work (Skilled) Visa
These requirements are essential to ensure that you can fully participate in the course and the work experience component. If you have any questions or need assistance with any of these requirements, please don't hesitate to call us on info@tu.edu.au.
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care RPL Course Pre-requisites
- You must have been working in childcare for a minimum of 2 years to start this course and students require a USI number to start their training.
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care RPL Skills Gained
Choosing the Certificate III through RPL offers experienced early childhood professionals a practical way to formalise their skills while continuing to make a meaningful impact. This pathway allows you to reflect on your existing knowledge and gain recognition for your capabilities without stepping away from the work you already do.
RPL is ideal for those who have spent time in early childhood settings and are ready to validate their experience against nationally recognised standards. As you work through the assessment process, you'll deepen your awareness of how your role contributes to the learning, safety, and development of children and the importance of intentional, reflective practice.
The course recognises your ability to create nurturing learning spaces, respond confidently to children’s needs, and support safe, inclusive environments. It affirms your experience in fostering meaningful relationships with children, families, and your team, while reinforcing your understanding of cultural awareness, communication, and ethical practice.
Safe work practices, sustainability, and health standards are key components of the qualification, and your RPL journey ensures you’ve integrated these into your day-to-day responsibilities. The course also highlights your understanding of the diverse cultural identities of children and families, including Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander perspectives, ensuring your approach is both respectful and inclusive.
Completing this qualification via RPL confirms not just your experience, but your readiness to continue supporting children’s early development with confidence, credibility, and care. It is a powerful step toward strengthening your role as an early childhood professional and expanding future opportunities in the sector.
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care RPL Units of Competency
This course consists of 17 units of competency with 15 core units and 2 elective units as listed below:
Core Units
| Unit Code | Unit Name and Description |
|---|---|
| CHCECE030 | Support inclusion and diversity Promote environments that embrace different backgrounds and perspectives. |
| CHCECE031 | Support children’s health, safety and wellbeing Safeguard the physical and emotional well-being of young ones. |
| CHCECE032 | Nurture babies and toddlers Provide tailored care and attention to the youngest, from infants to toddlers. |
| CHCECE033 | Develop positive and respectful relationships with children Cultivate meaningful and trustful interactions with young ones. |
| CHCECE034 | Use an approved learning framework to guide practice Implement established learning guidelines to elevate educational outcomes. |
| CHCECE035 | Support the holistic learning and development of children Champion comprehensive growth, catering to both academic and personal development. |
| CHCECE036 | Provide experiences to support children’s play and learning Organise activities that merge fun with educational insights. |
| CHCECE037 | Support children to connect with the natural environment Introduce youngsters to the wonders and beauty of the natural world. |
| CHCECE038 | Observe children to inform practice Monitor children's activities to continuously adapt and refine educational methods. |
| CHCECE054 | Encourage understanding of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples’ cultures Promote appreciation for the traditions and values of indigenous communities. |
| CHCECE055 | Meet legal and ethical obligations in children’s education and care Adhere to established ethical standards and legal protocols in childcare. |
| CHCECE056 | Work effectively in children’s education and care Excel in roles central to child education, fostering collaboration and efficacy. |
| CHCPRT001 | Identify and respond to children and young people at risk Detect and proactively address potential risks or challenges faced by children and youth. |
| HLTAID012 | Provide First Aid in an education and care setting Administer first aid adeptly in educational and caregiving scenarios. |
| HLTWHS001 | Participate in workplace health and safety Advocate for and enforce safety measures in work environments. |
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care RPL Assessment
The assessment process is founded on the principles of competency-based training. Your performance will be measured based on your ability to carry out tasks to industry standards. To ensure validity, we employ a variety of learning styles and assessment strategies.
Each unit of competence will be assessed through a combination of observation and evidence gathering. The assessments may include, but are not limited to:
- Evidence Provided
- Verbal Questioning
- Evaluations
- Workplace Observations
- Third Party Reports
We inform students well in advance about assessment activities, and we encourage you to share any special needs you might have. The criteria for assessment are documented in all modules and workbooks. Once the RPL traineeship commences, you'll receive the dates of assessments and a timetable.
Explore the ECEC Educator Hub
Your qualification is one part of a much bigger career journey. The ECEC Educator Hub brings together practical guidance, professional learning, career pathways and trusted resources to support you throughout your studies and beyond.
Study and Wellbeing Support
Access practical study strategies and wellbeing guidance to help you stay organised, maintain balance and progress through your qualification.
Career Pathways and Progression
See how an ECEC career can progress from trainee and qualified educator roles into leadership, management and service ownership.
Resources and Development
Discover professional development, educator resources and practical tools covering behaviour, inclusion, documentation and workplace practice.
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care RPL Fee Details
Course fee is $7500 in Perth.
- Student Resource Fees - NIL
- Student Textbooks - NIL
- Assessment marking/remarking - NIL
- Campus Fees - NIL
- Certificate Issuance - NIL
*Eligibility criteria applies
Childcare Traineeship Trainers
At Training Unlimited, we're committed to delivering industry-relevant and highly practical training, backed by over 20 years of experience. Our team of trainers are industry specialists, blending years of hands-on experience with a solid theoretical foundation.
Michelle Smeets
WA State Manager
Hi my name is Michelle. I am the State Manager for Training Unlimited here in WA as well as an Early Childhood Education and Care Training Specialist. I started my journey in the sector over 20 years ago, the best part of my job is being able to inspire educators to be positive role models for children and watching their confidence grow throughout their own individual learning journeys. I also really enjoy visiting services and spending time on the floor with the students children. One of my favourite quotes is "To teach is to touch a life forever" something Educators do each and everyday. I also have 3 children 15, 13 & 7 who are my absolute world.
Jennifer Nightingale
WA ECEC General Manager & Training Specialist
I have been in the Early Childhood sector for almost 30 years and love each and every minute. As the sector is ever evolving, I have built strong foundations within early learning professionals and centres and ensure the information and training we provide is current, research based and a reflection of what the sector strives to achieve. I have been employed in a variety of roles and am truly passionate about being 'Instigators of Change'. We have developed the Traineeship program around meeting the needs of each individual student and supporting the centres, as a whole. My areas of expertise are Culture, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, and Child Protection. I love watching our student's confidence and skills blossom throughout their learning journey and make a difference to the children's lives that they touch.
Angelina Holzenkaempfer
WA ECEC Training Specialist
My name is Angelina, and I’m thrilled to have been a part of the Early Childhood Education and Care industry since 2020! Over the years, I’ve embraced a range of roles—Assistant Educator, Room Leader, and Educational Leader—all of which have deepened my passion for nurturing the growth and development of young children. There’s nothing more fulfilling than supporting children as they reach their full potential and seeing them thrive in those early, transformative years. Now, I’m beyond excited to take the next step in my career with Training Unlimited! I'm eager to empower and inspire the next generation of educators, sharing my knowledge, experience, and unwavering passion for early childhood education. I can’t wait to help others discover the joy and fulfillment that comes with shaping young minds and making a lasting impact in this incredible field
Tiffany Knox
WA ECEC Training Specialist
I have over 7 years experience in the Early Childhood Education and Care profession, where I filled the positions of an assistant educator and room leader within all age groups. I became a Trainer and Assessor, specialising in Early Childhood Education and Care in October 2021. I am very passionate about the sector and am forever looking to further my knowledge and share my experiences with my students to implement constant improvements. I enjoy being on the floor with my students to gain the "feel" of the centre and support hands on learning. I believe the best way to build a positive relationship with children is to support their emotional needs and have fun with them by joining in on the learning experience. My areas of high interest are Noongar culture, child development and natural environments that promote sustainability.
Olivia Ketterridge
WA ECEC Training Specialist
My name is Olivia Ketteridge, I'm a Training Specialist for Training Unlimited and I deliver the Certificate III and Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care. I am an experienced and passionate Trainer with having worked in the Childcare Sector for 32 years. Using my skills and knowledge to empower and mentor educators to be their best self, to be able to provide high quality education and care to children of today's future. Join the TU team enables me to share my knowledge with other educators and be part of a team that raises the standards of education and care that we provide to children. I continue to be involved in my own professional development to keep up with the changes within the sector and teach my new skills to others.
Kariez Ropati-Livingstone
WA ECEC Training Specialist
I have been in the Early Childhood and Care industry and currently still for about 8 years. I am passionate about children's learning and development and love to share my knowledge and experience with passionate and willing individuals like you. Over the past years I have been working closely with children and families and have gained a deep passion with building deep relationships with children and families which I believe is one of the most important aspects of Early Childhood and Care. With that, I believe I can empower and support individual learners to achieve their goals through continual support and understanding with the hopes of completing their goals as well as finding their values and personal philosophies along the way.
Ellie Basilio
WA ECEC Training Specialist
With 25 years (plus) in the Early Childhood Education sector I have held a number of roles that have equipped me with the knowledge and insight to support the people around me. Throughout the years, my passion for assisting people be the best versions of themselves was becoming quite an obsession. So, I developed short personal development sessions to help my colleagues. I became a Trainer 12 years ago (2011) with a promise and intention to assist our new and existing educators understand this complex career and enjoy the journey. With my thirst for knowledge, I spent almost 3 years with a personal Leadership Coach teaching me leadership skills so that I could expand my scope and assist our leaders in their roles with confidence and charisma. I love my time as a trainer and feel that I have found my corner of the universe. I have been married for 31 years (1992 grand final day) to my best friend Jose whom we share the travel passion and 2 adult children Zack (27) and Josie (25). I enjoy reading romance novels and supernatural movies and shopping for shoes and clothes are my addiction.
Sharee Hitchcock
WA ECEC Training Specialist
My name is Sharee Hitchcock. I am a training specialist for training unlimited, delivering both the Certificate III and Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care. I have over 24 years experience in the ECEC industry spanning from the role of a student to a room leader to a director to service owner. I moved into training and assessment 16 years ago with a vision to passing on my passion for Early Childhood Education and Care to the educators of today. I believe the ECEC industry is forever evolving and am committed to keeping up to date with the latest trends by attending professional developments and working in collaboration with services and their educators to ensure my knowledge and training is current and a reflection of the industry. I have a high interest in play based learning with a link to the appreciation to the natural environment with pedagogical practices that enrich habits that embed equity, diversity and inclusion. A educator is best invested interacting with the children resulting in a passion in observations and curriculum planning that invests in acting in the best interest of the children at all times. The best part of being a trainer is being able to inspire, support and grow the next generation of educators to empower them to provide high quality education and care to children with an aim to raise the standard of practices in the industry. While my role will be to pass on knowledge to students, spending time with them on the floor to provide role modelling and mentoring is essential. I am eager to work with my students and enjoy watching their confidence grow throughout their own learning journeys as they embrace challenges and reap the rewards of their progress.
Maddy Froome
WA ECEC Training Specialist
My name is Maddy, over my nine years in the Early Childhood Education and Care sector I became very passionate about child education, meaningful relationships and supporting educators to exceed the traditional care and education standards, setting them up for success in the sector. I specialize in: Quality area 2 - Childrens health and safety, Quality area 3 - Physical environment, Quality area 5 - Relationships with children. I recognize that children have the right to make choices and decisions in their day to day life, by creating meaningful, positive relationships with children gives them the opportunity to be confident in the environment they are in and to learn to the best of their ability.
Sandra Creed
WA ECEC Training Specialist
With over 30 years in Early Childhood Education and Care, I’ve worked across a range of settings, in a variety of roles. I have had privilege of working alongside aspiring early childhood educators-guiding, mentoring and celebrating their growth and learning from exceptional colleagues and the wonderful children that were in my care. My passion lies in creating safe, engaging spaces where adult learners feel seen, supported and encouraged. I bring a wealth of knowledge and experience, empathy, clarity, and dedication to each learner’s journey. I believe education is about connection, confidence, and helping people find their purpose. I lead with professionalism and integrity, always placing children's needs at the heart of my practice and modelling excellence for others to follow. Outside of work, I love spending time with family and friends, fishing, crayfishing, camping, sharing a love for music and tending to our culinary garden at home. These hobbies keep me grounded and remind me of the importance of balance, nature, and happiness in everyday life.
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care RPL FAQs
- Career Opportunities
Potential Job Roles
- Early Childhood Educator
- Family Day Care Educator
- Nanny or In-home Carer
For more information on a career in aged care visit: Careers in Childcare - Where can it take you?
- Traineeship Options
To view Traineeship options for this course, see our CHC30121 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care Traineeship course.
- Course Fees
Training Unlimited (TU) is an approved funded Training Provider by the Department of Training and Workforce Development (DTWD). As such we are required to charge the prescribed student fees in respect of the training provided to you. Please note the majority of the cost of the training is provided by the department.
Training Unlimited recognise the cost burden on students and therefore we do not charge any other additional fees or charges to you.
Fee for Service (FFS)
The fee for service price is: $7,500.00
Upon Enrolment there will be a non-refundable commitment fee of $500.00. The Balance of the FFS price will be invoiceable and payable on the completion of the process.
Once payment has been made the Qualification will be issued to successful candidates. Under no circumstances will a Qualification be issued without the payment of the FFS price.
- How to Enrol
Enrolling is straightforward! Simply reach out to us at Training Unlimited, and we'll provide the necessary enrolment links. The online enrolment, complemented by an LLN test, takes about 45-60 minutes.
There's no upfront payment required at enrolment – just ensure you have a functional device, like a laptop, iPad, or tablet, and you'll be set to embark on your learning journey.
- Workplace-based Learning Advantages
Work-based training offers a real-world experience, allowing learners to apply theoretical knowledge in actual job settings. Unlike traditional classroom training, it provides immediate context, fostering a deeper understanding and honing skills in a practical environment.
