Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 107327K) is a Diploma delivered by Lead College Pty Ltd over 1 year 1 month (~56 weeks). This AQF Level 5 qualification prepares graduates to work in early childhood education settings, including childcare centres and preschools. The course combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills in child development, curriculum design, and regulatory compliance. International students gain hands-on experience through a mandatory work component of 7 weeks (280 hours) in an approved early childhood setting. With delivery locations in Sydney (Haymarket and Parramatta) and Perth (Cannington), students can choose a campus that suits their lifestyle. All providers listed on HeadStart Academy are CRICOS-registered, ensuring you receive quality education protected under the ESOS Act. Whether you're starting a new career or advancing in education, this diploma opens doors to roles such as early childhood educator, team leader, or centre director. Use this page to explore indicative fees, entry requirements, and visa information specific to this course at Lead College.
Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 107327K) is a Diploma delivered by Lead College Pty Ltd over 1 year 1 month (~56 weeks). This course is classified under Field of Education 07 - Education, specifically 070199 - Teacher Education, n.e.c. It is a vocational qualification (VET national code CHC50121) that builds on foundational knowledge from certificate-level studies. The course is designed for international students seeking to gain professional skills in early childhood education. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian government standards for overseas students. Lead College Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03636F) is a private provider with multiple campuses across Australia. This course is offered in English only and does not include dual qualifications or foundation studies. Graduates are equipped to plan and implement educational programs for children from birth to school age, ensuring safety, inclusivity, and developmental outcomes. The course also includes an embedded work component, giving students real-world experience in Australian early childhood settings.
The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care covers a broad range of topics essential for working with young children. Students learn about child development from birth to five years, including physical, cognitive, social, and emotional milestones. The curriculum includes designing and evaluating play-based learning experiences, supporting children's wellbeing, building family and community partnerships, and maintaining legal and ethical practices. At the Diploma level, students develop advanced skills in curriculum planning, assessment, and reflection, as well as leadership and team management. While specific syllabus details are set by Lead College, typical modules include: fostering inclusive environments, promoting children's health and safety, implementing approved learning frameworks, and supporting children with additional needs. Graduates emerge with the ability to lead teams and coordinate services in early childhood settings. This field of education is regulated by the Australian Children's Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA) and meets national quality standards.
The course runs for 1 year 1 month (~56 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. This duration typically includes scheduled breaks and the work component. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification — no dual awards are offered with this course. Study mode is likely full-time, face-to-face delivery at the chosen campus, though students should confirm timetabling directly with Lead College. The course may include online components, but CRICOS registration requires a minimum of 20 hours per week of scheduled contact. International students must maintain satisfactory course attendance to comply with student visa conditions. The 56-week timeframe allows for comprehensive coverage of theoretical subjects plus the 7-week practical placement. Students are expected to commit to approximately 20-25 hours per week of classes and self-study.
The indicative fees for Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care at Lead College Pty Ltd are as follows: Tuition fee: A$18,500; Non-tuition fees (such as application, materials, and administration): A$1,500; Estimated total cost: A$20,000. These are indicative figures sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Fees are set by the institution and subject to change. Additional costs not included are: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) which is mandatory for student visa holders, living expenses (e.g., accommodation, food, transport), and the student visa application charge. International students in Australia need to budget for living costs — for example, in Sydney, average weekly rent ranges from A$250-$400, groceries $80-$130, and transport $30-$50. Always confirm current fees with Lead College by visiting their website at http://www.leadcollege.edu.au.
Entry requirements for Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care at Lead College are set by the institution and typically include: minimum age of 18, completion of Australian Year 12 (or equivalent overseas qualification), and English language proficiency. An IELTS score of 5.5-6.0 overall is commonly required (or equivalent like TOEFL iBT 46-60, PTE 42-50, or Cambridge CAE 162-169). Some providers may accept completion of a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care as a pathway. Students must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for the student visa. No foundation studies are offered with this course. Detailed academic and English requirements should be confirmed directly with Lead College. If you do not meet the English requirement, consider pathway programs such as ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students) offered by many CRICOS-registered providers.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 7 weeks, 40 hours per week (approximately 280 total hours). This is an integrated industry placement where students apply theoretical knowledge in a real early childhood setting under supervision. Work-integrated learning (WIL) is designed to develop practical skills in areas such as: interacting with children, planning and implementing activities, following regulations, and working as part of a team. The placement may occur in childcare centres, preschools, or similar approved facilities. Students are responsible for securing their placement, though Lead College may assist. The work component is unpaid and must be completed to satisfy course requirements. International students on a Subclass 500 visa can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term, but this placement is part of the course, not employment. It provides invaluable local experience for future job applications in Australia.
Lead College Pty Ltd delivers this course at three campuses: (1) Haymarket - Lead College Pty Ltd, Level 1, 841 George St, Haymarket NSW 2000 (2) Parramatta Lead, 37 George St, Parramatta NSW 2150 (3) Lead - Perth, 15 Leila St, Cannington WA 6107. Haymarket is in Sydney's Chinatown, close to Central Station and public transport hubs. Parramatta is a major western Sydney hub with a large student community. Cannington is a suburb of Perth, about 12 km from the CBD. Both Sydney and Perth have high concentrations of international students and many CRICOS-registered providers. Sydney hosts over 200,000 international students, while Perth has around 50,000. Living costs in Perth are generally 10-15% lower than in Sydney. Students should consider lifestyle, climate, and local job markets when choosing a campus. All campuses are accessible by public transport and offer proximity to amenities.
International students need to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course in Australia. Key requirements: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Lead College, evidence of English proficiency (IELTS 5.5-6.0 or equivalent), genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the visa duration, and sufficient funds for travel, tuition, and living costs. The current student visa application charge (as of 2026) is A$710 for the main applicant, subject to change. Additional family members incur extra costs. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while their course is in session and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Dependents may have work rights as well. It is important to comply with visa conditions, including maintaining enrolment, satisfactory attendance, and adequate OSHC. Always consult the Department of Home Affairs at homeaffairs.gov.au or a registered migration agent (MARA) for personalised advice.
Choosing to study Early Childhood Education in Australia offers excellent career prospects. The demand for qualified early childhood educators is strong, with government initiatives like the National Quality Framework ensuring high standards. Graduates can work in long day care, family day care, preschools, and outside-school-hours care. The diploma can lead to roles such as Lead Educator, Educational Leader, or Centre Director. However, consider factors like: the cost of living in your chosen city (Sydney vs Perth), proximity to placement sites, climate, and lifestyle. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, so you have options. Reflect on your long-term goals — if you plan to migrate, this qualification is on skilled occupation lists for various visas. HeadStart Academy provides free resources to help you compare courses, but we recommend you research thoroughly and speak with the provider about employment outcomes.
Follow these three steps to apply for Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS 107327K) at Lead College Pty Ltd:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Filter by course level, field, and city on HeadStart Academy. Confirm Lead College's CRICOS registration (03636F) and verify course details on CRICOS at cricos.teqsa.gov.au.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check entry requirements (IELTS 5.5-6.0, academic qualifications), prepare documents (transcripts, passport, English test score), and submit your application via Lead College's website or through an education agent. Note application deadlines — intakes are typically in February, July, and October.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, Lead College will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a student visa via the Department of Home Affairs. Attach OSHC, financial evidence, and GTE statement. After visa grant, plan your travel and accommodation.
Ready to start your journey? Explore this course on HeadStart Academy and take the next step toward studying in Australia.
Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Lead College 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.