Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 108094C) is a Diploma (AQF Level 5) delivered by Southern Cross Education Institute Pty Ltd over 1 year 1 month (~57 weeks). This course is designed for international students seeking to build a career in early childhood education. In Australia, early childhood educators are in high demand, with the field projected to grow strongly. Studying this diploma at a CRICOS-registered provider ensures that your qualification is recognised and that you are protected under the ESOS Act. At HeadStart Academy, we help you navigate from CRICOS registration to visa application, with up-to-date information on over 26,000 courses. The Diploma covers key areas such as child development, fostering positive relationships, curriculum design, and regulatory frameworks. Graduates can work in childcare centres, preschools, and other early learning settings. With a work component of 9 weeks, you'll gain practical experience in Australian early childhood environments. Whether you plan to study in Adelaide, North Melbourne, or West Melbourne, this course offers flexible delivery locations. At HeadStart Academy, we provide free, unbiased information to help you choose the right course and provider.
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Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 108094C) is a Diploma delivered by Southern Cross Education Institute Pty Ltd over 1 year 1 month (~57 weeks). This qualification is classified under the field of Education (0701 Teacher Education) and is at AQF Level 5. It is a single qualification (not dual) and is delivered in English. The course is listed on the CRICOS register as a VET qualification with national code CHC50121. Southern Cross Education Institute Pty Ltd (CRICOS 02934D) is a private provider that has been registered since 2012. Studying at a CRICOS-registered provider gives you the confidence that the course meets Australian quality standards and that you are eligible for a student visa.
The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care focuses on the knowledge and skills needed to work with children from birth to 5 years. At this level, you will learn advanced practices in designing and implementing educational programs, building respectful relationships with children and families, and leading teams in early childhood settings. Core topics include child development, learning through play, cultural competence, health and safety, and regulatory compliance. The course also emphasises reflective practice and professional identity. While the exact syllabus is set by the provider, graduates of this diploma are typically prepared for roles such as early childhood educator, room leader, or centre director, and may also pursue further study in early childhood teaching (AQF Level 7).
The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care runs for 1 year 1 month (~57 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. This is a full-time course delivered in English. It is a single qualification (not a dual or packaged award) and does not include foundation studies. The study mode is typically face-to-face at one of the provider's campuses. Students are expected to attend classes, complete assignments, and participate in a work placement component. The course length is designed to meet the requirements for a Student visa (Subclass 500), which requires a minimum of 20 scheduled contact hours per week.
Indicative fees for the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care at Southern Cross Education Institute Pty Ltd are set on the CRICOS register as follows: - Tuition fee: A$14,000 - Non-tuition fees: A$850 (includes enrolment, materials, and administration) - Estimated total: A$14,850 These fees are indicative and sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. They do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the student visa application charge. For current fees, always check the provider's website at www.scei.com.au. Living costs vary by city: Adelaide is more affordable with indicative weekly rent around $250–$350, while Melbourne is higher at $300–$450. We recommend budgeting additional funds for these expenses.
International students applying for the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care should meet the following general entry requirements: - English language proficiency: IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall (or equivalent), as specified by the provider. - Academic qualifications: Completion of Year 12 (or equivalent) in your home country is typically expected for diploma-level study. - Some providers may also require relevant work experience or a pre-training interview. Foundation or pathway options are not part of this course but may be available through other institutions if you do not meet entry requirements. Contact Southern Cross Education Institute directly for specific admission criteria. All applicants must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for a student visa.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 9 weeks at 32 hours per week, totalling approximately 288 hours. This work-integrated learning is typically an industry placement in an approved early childhood education setting, such as a childcare centre or preschool. During the placement, you will apply classroom theory in a real-world environment under supervision, developing practical skills in child care, program implementation, and team collaboration. The placement is unpaid but is a credit-bearing part of the course. It also helps you build a professional network in Australia, which can be valuable for future employment.
The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is delivered at three campuses: - 14–16 Grote Street, Adelaide, SA — located in the heart of Adelaide's city centre, close to public transport and student amenities. Adelaide has a relaxed lifestyle with a lower cost of living compared to Sydney or Melbourne. The city hosts over 60,000 international students and numerous education providers. - 41 Boundary Road, North Melbourne, VIC — a purpose-built campus near public transport and shops. North Melbourne is a vibrant suburb close to the CBD. - 52–56 Chetwynd Street, West Melbourne, VIC — another convenient location in Melbourne's inner west, well-served by trams and buses. Both Melbourne campuses benefit from the city's status as Australia's largest student city, with over 250,000 international students. All campuses are accessible and equipped for vocational training.
To study this course in Australia, you need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: - Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from the provider. - Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement demonstrating your intention to stay temporarily. - Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. - Financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. - English proficiency evidence. Work rights: You can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while your course is in session, and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This can help offset living costs but should not be relied upon as a primary funding source. For detailed visa guidance, consult the Department of Home Affairs website or a registered migration agent (MARA).
Follow these three steps to enrol in the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care at Southern Cross Education Institute Pty Ltd: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers — Use HeadStart Academy to compare early childhood diploma courses, check CRICOS registration, and find the right fit for your study goals and location preference. 2. Apply directly to Southern Cross Education Institute Pty Ltd — Prepare your academic transcripts, English test results (e.g., IELTS), and any other required documents. Submit your application through the provider's admissions portal. Ensure you meet the entry requirements and application deadlines. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) — Once accepted, you will receive a CoE. Then lodge your visa application online, including your CoE, OSHC evidence, GTE statement, and financial documents. Processing times vary, so apply early.
Ready to begin your journey in early childhood education? Explore the next steps on the HeadStart Academy website.
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Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Southern Cross Education Institute 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.