🎓 Study Early Childhood Education in 2026 — Get Financial Support
Applications are now open for the 2026 NSW Government Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) Scholarship Program. You could receive up to $6,000 to help cover the cost of studying an eligible Early Childhood qualification.
METS trainers will inspire you as you begin your career in the world of Early Childhood Education and Care. Explore one of the most fulfilling career paths for those with a love of children, early education and a passion for childhood development.
This nationally-recognised course includes 15 core units and 2 electives. You will gain an understanding of the roles and responsibilities of a Certificate III level educator which may include, but are not limited to:
- Providing Education and Care to Children
- Supporting children’s learning and development, including contributing to the educational program and practice
- Assisting the delivery of an approved learning framework
- Developing positive relationships with children and families
- Supporting the daily routines of children
- Contributing to the delivery of National Quality Standards requirements
- Ensuring compliance with service policies and national and/or state-based legislation.
Enjoy potential options of flexible hours within your childcare career, where you will foster the holistic development of children aged 0-5.
To achieve this qualification, the individual must have completed a total of least 160 hours of work in a regulated children’s education and care service in Australia as detailed in the Assessment Requirements of units of competency. The total number of hours may be applied collectively across all units of competency that include the requirement for workplace hours.
NSW Smart and Skilled funding is available for eligible students in the following region:
- Southern Highlands
- Sydney
- Hunter
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Delivery mode
This course is available in the following study modes:
Entry Requirements
There are no formal academic requirements
Smart and Skilled Funding Eligibility (NSW)
METS Training Services delivers government subsidised training, including the NSW government training under the Smart and Skilled program.
To access NSW government-subsidised training with METS Training Services, including fee exemptions or concessions, you must be:
- an Australian citizen or meet the criteria of being an Australian permanent resident, a humanitarian visa holder, or a New Zealand citizen;
- aged 15 years or older;
- no longer be at school;
- living or working in NSW; or registered as a NSW apprentice or new entrant trainee.
Please note: Students on temporary visas (including Student Visa Subclass 500 and most visitor or working holiday visas) are not eligible for government-subsidised training.
Course fees
Course fee
Unknown
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Smart and Skilled Funding – Fee Free Training may be available for eligible students.
2026 NSW Government ECEC Scholarships
âś… What You Need to Know
- Up to $6,000 per successful applicant
- Applications open: 1 October 2026
- Applications close: 31 March 2027
- Available for eligible ECEC VET qualifications
- For students who commence studying after 1 October 2026
Related career opportunities
This course will prepare you for the following roles.
About METS Training Services
METS is a leading RTO and approved Smart & Skilled Provider, delivering nationally recognised qualifications within the community service, childcare, retail, business and warehouse industries.
Legal name
Macquarie Employment Training Service Limited
More about METS Training Services