Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 107131M) is a Diploma delivered by Malekhu Investments Pty Ltd over 1 year. Registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS) under provider code 03010G, this qualification equips you to work as an early childhood educator in a variety of settings, from childcare centres to preschools. Studying through a CRICOS-registered provider ensures you are protected by the ESOS Act, giving you legal rights as an international student in Australia. With over 1,500 Cricos-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, HeadStart Academy helps you navigate your options. This course is ideal if you are passionate about children's development and want a nationally recognised qualification (CHC50121) at AQF Level 5. Whether you plan to study in Brisbane, Adelaide, or Parramatta, this program includes a substantial work component to build practical skills.
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The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS 107131M) is a VET qualification (CHC50121) offered by Malekhu Investments Pty Ltd (trading as Queensford College). The course sits under the field of Human Welfare Studies and Services (090503 – Childrens Services). Graduates are prepared for roles such as early childhood educator, centre director, or family day care coordinator. The program combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience, including a mandatory work component of 280 hours (28 weeks at 10 hours per week). All courses listed on the CRICOS register meet Australian quality standards, ensuring your qualification is recognised across the country.
This diploma covers core competencies in children's services, including child development, designing and implementing curriculum, supporting children's social and emotional wellbeing, and managing legal and ethical compliance. You will learn to create inclusive learning environments that cater to children from diverse backgrounds. The AQF Level 5 qualification ensures you gain advanced skills in leadership, teamwork, and critical analysis. While specific syllabi vary by provider, typical topics include fostering relationships with children and families, using information about children's learning to guide practice, and maintaining a safe and healthy environment. Graduates may also be eligible to apply for roles in early childhood management or continue to higher education.
This course is delivered full-time over 52 weeks (1 year) as recorded on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. It is a single qualification (not a dual or combined award). Study modes vary by campus; contact Malekhu Investments Pty Ltd (Queensford College) for details on delivery (on-campus, blended, or online components). International students must maintain full-time enrolment under student visa conditions.
Tuition fees for this course are A$22,000, with additional non-tuition fees of A$2,000, making an estimated total of A$24,000. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are indicative only. Fees are set by Malekhu Investments Pty Ltd and are subject to change. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge. Always confirm current fees with the provider at www.queensford.edu.au before applying. As a guide, living costs in major Australian cities range from A$1,200 to A$2,000 per month depending on location and lifestyle.
Prospective students should have completed an Australian Year 12 or equivalent. For this diploma level, previous study in a related field (such as Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care) may be beneficial. English language proficiency is typically required: IELTS overall 5.5–6.0 (or equivalent). Foundation or pathway programs may be available for students who do not meet direct entry requirements – contact Queensford College for details. All entry requirements are set by the institution; HeadStart Academy provides general guidance only. For definitive information, consult the provider.
This course includes a structured work component: 28 weeks of placement at 10 hours per week, totalling approximately 280 hours. This work-integrated learning takes the form of an industry placement in an early childhood setting, such as a childcare centre or preschool. It allows you to apply theoretical knowledge in a real-world environment, develop professional networks, and gain practical skills valued by employers. Under student visa conditions, you can also work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions.
Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is delivered at three campuses: 1) 359 Queen Street, Brisbane City QLD 4000 (Brisbane, Queensland); 2) 90 King William St, Adelaide SA 5000 (Adelaide, South Australia); 3) Level 4, 16-18 Wentworth St, Parramatta NSW 2150 (Parramatta, New South Wales). Brisbane is a vibrant student city with over 100,000 international students and numerous CRICOS-registered providers. Adelaide offers a lower cost of living, with average weekly rent around A$300–500. Parramatta, a growing hub in Western Sydney, is well-connected by public transport and home to many education institutions. Each campus provides access to student services and study facilities.
To study this course as an international student, you need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include a genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs ($21,041 per year for a single student as of 2026), OSHC, and meeting English language requirements. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks. All international students are protected under the ESOS Act. For detailed visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care at Malekhu Investments Pty Ltd:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to compare courses and filter by level, field, and city. Ensure the provider and course are listed on the CRICOS register (CRICOS 03010G for this course).
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit www.queensford.edu.au to review entry requirements, English test scores, and application deadlines. Submit your application along with supporting documents (transcripts, English test results, passport copy).
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, the institution will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application through ImmiAccount. Prepare your GTE statement, financial evidence, and OSHC policy.
Ready to apply? Follow our 3-step guide above to get started. For personalised assistance, visit the HeadStart Academy website or contact Malekhu Investments Pty Ltd directly.
Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Malekhu Investments Pty Ltd. Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.