The Teacher Aide Combo is as a comprehensive pathway for those looking to be fully equipped for any education support role in an Australian school. Including both the CHC30221 Certificate III and CHC40221 Certificate IV in School Based Education Support, this pathway not only sets you apart in the competitive job market but also offers a uniquely broad and deep skill set. Rather than tackling 25+ repetitive units, ITAC's innovative Teacher Aide Combo is streamlined around four key modules. Completing this all-inclusive pathway allows learners to achieve all the essential competencies in a time frame only slightly longer than it normally takes to complete a single course.
Mirroring the structure of the Certificate IV course, the Teacher Aide Combo includes foundational elements like school policies and safety protocols, as well as more complex classroom management and specialised support techniques. Assessment consists predominantly of short-answer questions and practical, work-based tasks. A mandatory 100-hour work placement is integrated into the course, giving you hands-on experience and potentially leading to paid employment. Though designed for a 26-week completion, an 18-month enrolment period is available for added flexibility.
Choosing the Teacher Aide Combo not only broadens your skill set but also significantly enhances your employability, providing a one-stop qualification route that sets a new standard in the field of education support. This is why thousands of students now choose the Teacher Aide Combo.
Inclusions and benefits:
All learning materials
Interest free payment plans
30-day no-obligation period
Integrated structure: Time-saving
No exams, tests or essays
JobAssist Program
Australia’s largest provider
Links with 1000s of schools
Site visits to improve your skills
Friendly, local trainers
Unlimited support
Weekly catch-up webinars
Teacher Aide Combo
Qualification:
CHC30221 Certificate III in School Based Education Support and
CHC40221 Certificate IV in School Based Education Support
Accreditation:
Yes, Nationally Recognised
Availability:
Australia-wide
Centrelink:
Eligible for payments during studies
Payment Plan:
Interest-free options available (Refer to Fees tab)
Online Mode:
Enrol at any time
Fast-Track:
Offered for Certificate IV and TAC only. [Read more]
Combines core concepts from Certificate III, including general classroom support and policy implementation, with specialised strategies from Certificate IV for supporting students with additional needs.
* Due to regulations ITAC cannot receive more than $1500 in advance. The second payment is scheduled soon after the 30-day census period. Students may request fees be paid over 3-6 payments.
What you need to know:
1. All fees marked 'Waived' are conditional on fair and standard use and subject to institutional policies. 2. Waived fees are part of the total course package and payable fees are not subject to reduction if unused or declined. 3. Services are subject to availability. 4. Transaction fees include standard card and transaction fees normally charged by vendors; it excludes dishonour fees and any additional fees charged by the student’s institution. 5. The total course value may include estimations and may vary depending on utilisation. 6. Small incidental costs may be occasionally incurred, such as the cost of applying for a clearance and minor resources for creating children’s activities. 7. Regulatory Compliance: All financial arrangements are compliant with Australian educational financial regulations. 8. Students are advised to read the Direct Debit TnCs, Enrolment TnCs, Student Handbook, and familiarise themselves with all Student Policies.
Important: While there are 15 units in the Certificate III and 17 in the Certificate IV, due to ITAC’s unique integrated structure, students only need to study 4 theory modules + placement requirements. Read more here.
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to work respectfully with people from diverse social and cultural groups and situations, including Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people.
This unit applies to all workers.
The skills in this unit must be applied in accordance with Commonwealth and State/Territory legislation, Australian/New Zealand standards and industry codes of practice.
This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to identify and comply with legislation, policy and industrial instruments that relate to the education support worker role in school settings.
The unit applies to education support workers who operate under the guidance and supervision of a teacher or other educational professional. They work mainly with students in classroom settings in primary or secondary schools, as defined by State/Territory legislation.
The skills in this unit must be applied in accordance with Commonwealth and State/Territory legislation, Australian standards and industry codes of practice.
No occupational licensing, certification or specific legislative requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to assist teachers in the planning and delivery of education programs. Classroom-level support is provided to ensure the learning environment is inclusive and relevant, and appropriately resourced and maintained. This includes routine classroom administration and operational functions.
The unit applies to education support workers who operate under the guidance and supervision of a teacher or other educational professional. They work mainly with students in classroom settings in primary or secondary schools, as defined by State/Territory legislation.
The skills in this unit must be applied in accordance with Commonwealth and State/Territory legislation, Australian standards and industry codes of practice.
No occupational licensing, certification or specific legislative requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to support the physical, social, emotional, cognitive and language development of students with a focus on the inclusion of all students.
This unit applies to education support workers who operate under the guidance and supervision of a teacher or other educational professional to support student education according to established curriculum. They work mainly with students in classroom settings in primary or secondary schools, as defined by State/Territory legislation.
The skills in this unit must be applied in accordance with Commonwealth and State/Territory legislation, Australian standards and industry codes of practice.
No occupational licensing, certification or specific legislative requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
This unit describes the performance outcomes skills and knowledge required to establish program guidelines, provide support, and monitor progress when working with students who need support with their reading, writing and oral language skills.
The unit applies to education support workers who operate under the guidance and supervision of a teacher or other educational professional. They work mainly with students in classroom settings in primary or secondary schools, as defined by State/Territory legislation.
The skills in this unit must be applied in accordance with Commonwealth and State/Territory legislation, Australian standards and industry codes of practice.
No occupational licensing, certification or specific legislative requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to implement numeracy programs as identified by the teacher to assist students requiring numeracy support.
The unit applies to education support workers who operate under the guidance and supervision of a teacher or other educational professional. They work mainly with students in classroom settings in primary or secondary schools, as defined by State/Territory legislation.
The skills in this unit must be applied in accordance with Commonwealth and State/Territory legislation, Australian standards and industry codes of practice.
No occupational licensing, certification or specific legislative requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to support students with recognised additional needs in classrooms, where there are students with a mix of abilities and needs.
The unit applies to education support workers who operate under the guidance and supervision of a teacher or other educational professional. They work mainly with students in classroom settings in primary or secondary schools, as defined by State/Territory legislation.
The skills in this unit must be applied in accordance with Commonwealth and State/Territory legislation, Australian standards and industry codes of practice.
No occupational licensing, certification or specific legislative requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to implement work health and safety policies and procedures to support the health, safety and wellbeing of students in an educational environment.
The unit applies to education support workers who operate under the guidance and supervision of a teacher or other educational professional. They work mainly with students in classroom settings in primary and secondary schools, as defined by State/Territory legislation.
The skills in this unit must be applied in accordance with Commonwealth and State/Territory legislation, Australian standards and industry codes of practice.
No occupational licensing, certification or specific legislative requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to generate positive, respectful and effective interactions with students and colleagues.
The unit applies to education support workers who operate under the guidance and supervision of a teacher or other educational professional. They work mainly with students in classroom settings in primary and secondary schools, as defined by State/Territory legislation.
The skills in this unit must be applied in accordance with Commonwealth and State/Territory legislation, Australian standards and industry codes of practice.
No occupational licensing, certification or specific legislative requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to support and guide responsible and positive behaviour of students.
The unit applies to education support workers who operate under the guidance and supervision of a teacher or other educational professional. They work mainly with students in classroom settings in primary and secondary schools, as defined by State/Territory legislation.
The skills in this unit must be applied in accordance with Commonwealth and State/Territory legislation, Australian standards and industry codes of practice.
No occupational licensing, certification or specific legislative requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to create, maintain and monitor individual and/or small group learning environments. This may include a learning activity area in a classroom, library or home-based learning environment, or a virtual learning environment.
The unit applies to education support workers who operate under the guidance and supervision of a teacher or other educational professional. They work mainly with students in classroom settings in primary or secondary schools, as defined by State/Territory legislation.
The skills in this unit must be applied in accordance with Commonwealth and State/Territory legislation, Australian standards and industry codes of practice.
No occupational licensing, certification or specific legislative requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required for workers to participate in safe work practices to ensure their own health and safety, and that of others.
The unit applies to all workers who require knowledge of workplace health and safety (WHS) to carry out their own work, either under direct supervision or with some individual responsibility.
The skills in this unit must be applied in accordance with Commonwealth and State/Territory legislation, Australian/New Zealand standards and industry codes of practice.
This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to contribute to the planning and implementation of strategies to support students who have challenges that may limit their access to the curriculum and its outcomes.
The unit applies to education support workers who operate under the guidance and supervision of a teacher or other educational professional. They work mainly with students in classroom settings in primary or secondary schools, as defined by State/Territory legislation.
The skills in this unit must be applied in accordance with Commonwealth and State/Territory legislation, Australian standards and industry codes of practice.
No occupational licensing, certification or specific legislative requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to facilitate and monitor student learning according to principles of practice used in a school.
The unit applies to education support workers who operate under the guidance and supervision of a teacher or other educational professional. They work mainly with students in classroom settings in primary or secondary schools, as defined by State/Territory legislation.
The skills in this unit must be applied in accordance with Commonwealth and State/Territory legislation, Australian standards and industry codes of practice.
No occupational licensing, certification or specific legislative requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to support the implementation of behaviour plans within a school. It includes developing an understanding of relevant legislation and organisational policies and procedures.
The unit applies to education support workers who operate under the guidance and supervision of a teacher or other educational professional. They work mainly with students in classroom settings in primary or secondary schools, as defined by State/Territory legislation.
The skills in this unit must be applied in accordance with Commonwealth and State/Territory legislation, Australian standards and industry codes of practice.
No occupational licensing, certification or specific legislative requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to work respectfully with people from diverse social and cultural groups and situations, including Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people.
This unit applies to all workers.
The skills in this unit must be applied in accordance with Commonwealth and State/Territory legislation, Australian/New Zealand standards and industry codes of practice.
This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to identify different perspectives on Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples’ cultures, develop an understanding of the local and broader cultural contexts, and use the identified information to embed culturally appropriate experiences, interactions, behaviours and physical environments into daily practice with children.
This unit applies to educators who work in regulated children’s education and care services or schools in Australia, including those who identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander and educators from other cultural backgrounds.
The skills in this unit must be applied in accordance with Commonwealth and State/Territory legislation, Australian standards and industry codes of practice.
No occupational licensing, certification or specific legislative requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to identify and comply with legislation, policy and industrial instruments that relate to the education support worker role in school settings.
The unit applies to education support workers who operate under the guidance and supervision of a teacher or other educational professional. They work mainly with students in classroom settings in primary or secondary schools, as defined by State/Territory legislation.
The skills in this unit must be applied in accordance with Commonwealth and State/Territory legislation, Australian standards and industry codes of practice.
No occupational licensing, certification or specific legislative requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to work with teachers to support primary or secondary students to develop mathematics skills in number and algebra, measurements and geometry, and statistics and probability as included in current curriculum documents.
These skills and knowledge enable education support workers to work with the teacher to reinforce mathematics skills across the curriculum.
The unit applies to education support workers who operate under the guidance and supervision of a teacher or other educational professional. They work mainly with students in classroom settings in primary or secondary schools, as defined by State/Territory legislation.
The skills in this unit must be applied in accordance with Commonwealth and State/Territory legislation, Australian standards and industry codes of practice.
No occupational licensing, certification or specific legislative requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to work with teachers to support primary or secondary students to develop literacy skills, including oral language, reading and writing skills. It includes the ability to develop literacy resources.
The unit applies to education support workers who operate under the guidance and supervision of a teacher or other educational professional. They work mainly with students in classroom settings in primary or secondary schools, as defined by State/Territory legislation.
The skills in this unit must be applied in accordance with Commonwealth and State/Territory legislation, Australian standards and industry codes of practice.
No occupational licensing, certification or specific legislative requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to facilitate and monitor student learning according to principles of practice used in a school.
The unit applies to education support workers who operate under the guidance and supervision of a teacher or other educational professional. They work mainly with students in classroom settings in primary or secondary schools, as defined by State/Territory legislation.
The skills in this unit must be applied in accordance with Commonwealth and State/Territory legislation, Australian standards and industry codes of practice.
No occupational licensing, certification or specific legislative requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to contribute to the planning and implementation of strategies to support students who have challenges that may limit their access to the curriculum and its outcomes.
The unit applies to education support workers who operate under the guidance and supervision of a teacher or other educational professional. They work mainly with students in classroom settings in primary or secondary schools, as defined by State/Territory legislation.
The skills in this unit must be applied in accordance with Commonwealth and State/Territory legislation, Australian standards and industry codes of practice.
No occupational licensing, certification or specific legislative requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to work inclusively, and contribute to the planning and implementation of learning support strategies for students with disabilities. This includes ensuring that student health and safety is maintained at all times.
The unit applies to education support workers who operate under the guidance and supervision of a teacher or other educational professional. They work mainly with students in classroom settings in primary or secondary schools, as defined by State/Territory legislation.
The skills in this unit must be applied in accordance with Commonwealth and State/Territory legislation, Australian standards and industry codes of practice.
No occupational licensing, certification or specific legislative requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge to provide support to students who have educational needs associated with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
The unit applies to education support workers who operate under the guidance and supervision of a teacher or other educational professional. They work mainly with students in classroom settings in primary or secondary schools, as defined by State/Territory legislation.
The skills in this unit must be applied in accordance with Commonwealth and State/Territory legislation, Australian standards and industry codes of practice.
No occupational licensing, certification or specific legislative requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to support the implementation of behaviour plans within a school. It includes developing an understanding of relevant legislation and organisational policies and procedures.
The unit applies to education support workers who operate under the guidance and supervision of a teacher or other educational professional. They work mainly with students in classroom settings in primary or secondary schools, as defined by State/Territory legislation.
The skills in this unit must be applied in accordance with Commonwealth and State/Territory legislation, Australian standards and industry codes of practice.
No occupational licensing, certification or specific legislative requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to implement work health and safety policies and procedures to support the health, safety and wellbeing of students in an educational environment.
The unit applies to education support workers who operate under the guidance and supervision of a teacher or other educational professional. They work mainly with students in classroom settings in primary and secondary schools, as defined by State/Territory legislation.
The skills in this unit must be applied in accordance with Commonwealth and State/Territory legislation, Australian standards and industry codes of practice.
No occupational licensing, certification or specific legislative requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to evaluate and enhance own practice through a process of reflection and ongoing professional development.
This unit applies to workers in all industry sectors who take pro-active responsibility for their own professional development.
The skills in this unit must be applied in accordance with Commonwealth and State/Territory legislation, Australian/New Zealand standards and industry codes of practice.
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to support and protect children and young people who are at risk of harm. This work occurs within legislative and policy frameworks and carries a duty of care responsibility.
This unit applies to workers in a range of job roles providing services to children and young people including in community services and health contexts.
The skills in this unit must be applied in accordance with Commonwealth and State/Territory legislation, Australian/New Zealand standards and industry codes of practice.
This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to plan, implement and review formal and informal ongoing skills development, in collaboration with a person with disability and incorporate into the person’s individualised plan.
This unit applies to workers in varied disability contexts. Work performed requires a range of well developed, person-centred skills where some discretion and judgement is required and workers will take responsibility for their own outputs.
The skills in this unit must be applied in accordance with Commonwealth and State/Territory legislation, Australian standards and industry codes of practice.
No occupational licensing, certification or specific legislative requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required for workers to participate in safe work practices to ensure their own health and safety, and that of others.
The unit applies to all workers who require knowledge of workplace health and safety (WHS) to carry out their own work, either under direct supervision or with some individual responsibility.
The skills in this unit must be applied in accordance with Commonwealth and State/Territory legislation, Australian/New Zealand standards and industry codes of practice.
This unit describes the performance outcomes skills and knowledge required to establish program guidelines, provide support, and monitor progress when working with students who need support with their reading, writing and oral language skills.
The unit applies to education support workers who operate under the guidance and supervision of a teacher or other educational professional. They work mainly with students in classroom settings in primary or secondary schools, as defined by State/Territory legislation.
The skills in this unit must be applied in accordance with Commonwealth and State/Territory legislation, Australian standards and industry codes of practice.
No occupational licensing, certification or specific legislative requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to support and guide responsible and positive behaviour of students.
The unit applies to education support workers who operate under the guidance and supervision of a teacher or other educational professional. They work mainly with students in classroom settings in primary and secondary schools, as defined by State/Territory legislation.
The skills in this unit must be applied in accordance with Commonwealth and State/Territory legislation, Australian standards and industry codes of practice.
No occupational licensing, certification or specific legislative requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
Minimum requirements
No previous qualifications or experience is required. Must reside in Australia.
Physical capabilities
Ability to engage in learning activities (including games) inside and outside of the classroom.
IT resources
Access to a functional computer with an internet connection, desktop applications, PDF reader and other basics.
IT skills
Ability to complete basic tasks such as opening .pdf documents and watching online videos. As schools are heavily IT focused, learners should be comfortable assisting children with technology i.e. iPads.
Numeracy skills
TAs require knowledge of basic mathematical concepts such as basic calculations, converting mm to cm, finding the average of a set of numbers, and drawing basic graphs - these skills are not taught as part of this course.
Language skills
Ability to complete basic literacy tasks such as reading and comprehending a school policy. TAs need basic English language skills (given that they are teaching these skills to children) e.g. know the difference between 'their', 'there' and 'they're'.
Age
Be turning 16 in the year of enrolment. Students under 18 are required to attend a career guidance interview with an ITAC trainer.
Clearances
Students must obtain (early in their course or beforehand) the relevant clearance to work with children such as a Blue Card(QLD), WWVP(ACT, TAS), or WWCC(WA, Vic., NSW, SA, NT). Click here for details.
Visas
ITAC are not registered to enrol learners on a student visa. If you are currently in Australia on a student visa, you can find CRICOS providers here.
The Teacher Aide Combo is an integrated educational pathway that includes both the CHC30221 Certificate III and CHC40221 Certificate IV in School Based Education Support. This comprehensive course is designed to equip individuals with a broad range of skills needed for various roles in educational support, from foundational to specialised techniques.
Choosing the Teacher Aide Combo ensures you receive a holistic education that prepares you thoroughly for a career in educational support. This option is highly popular due to its efficiency and comprehensive coverage, which significantly enhances your employability and prepares you for a wider variety of roles within the educational sector.
The Teacher Aide Combo grants you both the CHC30221 Certificate III and CHC40221 Certificate IV in School Based Education Support, making you exceptionally well-prepared for supporting students with and without special needs. This dual certification is particularly valuable for those seeking to maximise their career opportunities in the educational field.
While individual courses focus on specific levels of support, the Teacher Aide Combo seamlessly integrates the foundational elements of the Certificate III with the advanced strategies from the Certificate IV. This combination avoids repetitive learning of similar content across two separate courses, making it a more efficient and cohesive learning experience.
The Teacher Aide Combo is ideal for those who are determined to enter the educational support sector with a strong, comprehensive skill set. It is particularly suited for individuals looking for a robust training program that covers a wide range of competencies needed for various support roles in schools.
Similar to the individual certificate courses, the Teacher Aide Combo offers flexible study options including online learning, which allows you to study from anywhere at any time, and in-person classes for those who benefit from face-to-face interaction. An Accelerated Mode is also available, and is popular among those with prior work and life experience.
Enrollees must complete a 100-hour practical placement in a school setting, which is integral to applying the comprehensive skills learned during the course. This placement not only provides hands-on experience but also enhances job prospects by demonstrating competence in real-world educational support scenarios. ITAC visit every student on placement – an integral and very important part of your learning experience.
The Teacher Aide Combo is designed to be completed within 26 weeks or approximately 600 hours, providing a streamlined approach to obtaining two certifications. However, an extended enrolment period of 18 months is available to accommodate various life circumstances, ensuring flexibility for all students.
Assessments in the Teacher Aide Combo include a mix of short-answer questions and practical, work-based tasks that assess a wide range of skills from basic safety protocols to complex classroom management and support strategies.
Graduates of the Teacher Aide Combo are highly sought after and qualify for all levels of support roles within the Australian school system. The dual certification greatly enhances employability, especially in inclusive education and special needs programs, preparing you for diverse opportunities in the educational sector.
In Australia, teacher aides are known by various titles depending on the region, such as Education Assistants (EAs) in Western Australia, School Services Officers (SSOs) in South Australia, teacher assistants in Queensland, and School Learning Support Officers (SLSOs) in New South Wales. Other terms like educational aide and paraeducator are also occasionally used, reflecting the diverse nomenclature within the educational support sector.
Experience our range of innovative programs at ITAC, enhancing your educational journey towards success.
JobAssist
Only at ITAC, JobAssist connects students with 1000s of employers around Australia – helping students to land their dream job in a local school. Free for all ITAC students.
MumED
This program provides tailored support for mothers balancing educational commitments with family life, such as by offering flexible schedules and support.
Academic Engagement
Designed to support consistent learning towards academic goals, this program offers regular one-on-one contact with experienced staff and other services.
EnablePath
Aimed at creating an inclusive environment, this program offers customized learning plans, specialist staff, and one-on-one support for students with disabilities.
Dandjoo Support
Targeted for Indigenous students, this program offers culturally sensitive support, mentorship, and resources to help students navigate their academic journey.
Anytime Learning
Virtual Learning Environment
24/7 access to our state-of-the-art digital platform, allowing you to study whenever and wherever you choose.
National Access
Focused staff and facilities in key regions across Australia to facilitate consistent learner support whenever you need it.
Wellbeing and Support
Dedicated staff committed to fostering your academic success and wellbeing through personalised support.
Leading in Flexibility and Support: Australia's Favourite Teacher Aide Course
.s
of industry affiliations
.-day
no-obligation period
.
enrolments per year
.
% completion rate
Start today with Australia's most popular teacher aide course.
