Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 108264A) is a Diploma delivered by Cairns College of English Pty Ltd over 1 year 5 months (~72 weeks). This qualification at AQF Level 5 equips students with specialised knowledge and skills to design, implement, and evaluate early childhood programs, supporting children's development from birth to school age. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian standards for international students. HeadStart Academy sources all data from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), ensuring accuracy. Cairns, with over 30 registered providers, offers a vibrant study environment with tropical lifestyle and growing student community. While this course focuses on early childhood education, students benefit from Australia's Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act protections. Estimated total fees are A$13,050, with optional work placement integrated. This page provides an independent overview — always confirm details directly with the provider.
| Metric | Value |
|---|
| Metric | Value |
|---|
This Diploma deepens understanding of child development, learning frameworks, and ethical practices in early childhood settings. Students explore curriculum planning, inclusive strategies, family engagement, and leadership in education. The course aligns with the Australian Children's Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA) standards, preparing graduates for roles such as early childhood educator or centre director. While specific unit outlines vary, typical learning outcomes include promoting children's wellbeing, fostering creative learning environments, and complying with regulatory requirements. The field of teacher education (070101) ensures a strong foundation in pedagogical theory and practical application. No dual qualification is offered, but the standalone Diploma provides a pathway to further study at bachelor level. Australia's robust VET system, with over 26,000 courses on CRICOS, offers flexibility for international students.
The course spans 1 year 5 months (~72 weeks) as listed on the CRICOS register. Instruction is in English, with no foundation or dual qualification options. This single qualification allows focused study. The duration includes both classroom learning and a mandatory work component totaling 300 hours over 60 weeks (5 hours per week). Classes are conducted at the Cairns City campus, with typical weekly commitment including lectures, tutorials, and self-study. International students on a Student visa must maintain full-time enrolment and satisfactory course progress. Cairns College of English Pty Ltd structures the program to balance academic and practical training within the 72-week timeframe.
Indicative fees for this course, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026, are: tuition A$12,750, non-tuition fees A$300, making an estimated total of A$13,050. These are set by Cairns College of English Pty Ltd and subject to change. Additional costs not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (rent, groceries, transport), and the Student visa application charge. In Cairns, indicative weekly living costs range from A$400–A$600 for a single student. Always confirm current fees directly with the provider at www.cceb.qld.edu.au. HeadStart Academy does not guarantee fee amounts; we provide these as a guide only. CRICOS-registered providers must publish genuine fees under the ESOS framework.
International applicants typically need IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall (or equivalent) and a qualification equivalent to Australian Year 12. Prior experience or a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care may be beneficial. Cairns College of English Pty Ltd may assess on a case-by-case basis. Foundation or pathway options are not listed for this course; contact the provider for alternatives. All CRICOS-registered providers assess English proficiency and academic suitability. HeadStart Academy recommends checking the provider's website for precise prerequisites. Students from non-English backgrounds should meet the English requirement before applying. The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion also applies to Student visa applications.
This course includes a work-integrated learning component: 60 weeks with 5 hours per week, totaling approximately 300 hours. This practical placement allows students to apply theoretical knowledge in real early childhood settings, such as childcare centres or preschools. It counts towards the qualification and provides essential industry experience. Placements are supervised and may require a Working with Children Check. The work component is integral to meeting ACECQA requirements for early childhood educators. Students should factor placement hours into their schedule. This hands-on exposure enhances employability and fulfils the dual purpose of training and workforce participation. Under Student visa conditions, placement hours are not counted toward the 48 hours per fortnight work limit.
This course is delivered at 27 Aplin St CAIRNS CITY QLD 4870, in the Cairns City central business district. Cairns, in tropical North Queensland, is home to a growing international student community with access to public transport, shopping, and lifestyle amenities. The campus is within walking distance of bus stops and the Cairns Esplanade. Cairns has over 30 CRICOS-registered providers, offering a variety of study options. Living costs here are generally lower than in Sydney or Melbourne, with indicative weekly rent for a room around A$200–A$350. Students enjoy a multicultural environment and proximity to natural attractions like the Great Barrier Reef. The single location ensures consistency for students attending classes and placements.
To study this course as an international student, you need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows full-time study and work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited during scheduled breaks. You must maintain OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover) for the duration of your stay. The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement means you must demonstrate you intend to stay temporarily for study. Financial capacity evidence is also needed. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent — consult the Department of Home Affairs or a MARA-registered agent for visa advice. Your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Cairns College of English Pty Ltd is required to apply. All CRICOS-registered courses comply with ESOS protections.
Applying for the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (108264A) at Cairns College of English Pty Ltd is straightforward. Follow these three steps:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field, and city. Confirm that Cairns College of English (CRICOS 03251A) meets your needs.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit www.cceb.qld.edu.au for entry requirements, English test scores, and application deadlines. Submit your qualifications and supporting documents.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500). With a valid CoE, lodge your visa application through the Department of Home Affairs, pay the visa charge, and arrange OSHC. HeadStart Academy provides guidance but does not process applications.
Explore more CRICOS-registered early childhood education courses on HeadStart Academy's course search.
Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Cairns College of English 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.