Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 109290B) is a Diploma-level qualification (AQF Level 5) delivered by TAFE Queensland over 51 weeks (~12 months). This course is designed for students pursuing careers in early childhood education, covering areas such as curriculum design, child development, and regulatory compliance. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider CRICOS 03020E), it meets Australian standards for international students. TAFE Queensland is a government-owned provider with campuses across Queensland, offering this course at six locations: Ipswich, Mooloolaba, Robina, South Bank, Southport, and Springfield. The course includes a mandatory work component of 20 weeks (15 hrs/week) for practical experience. With indicative tuition fees of A$11,600 (excluding OSHC and living costs), it represents a cost-effective pathway to employment in Australia's growing early childhood sector. All CRICOS-registered courses are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring quality and student rights.
| Metric | Value |
|---|
The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS 109290B) is a nationally recognised qualification under the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF Level 5). Delivered by TAFE Queensland (CRICOS 03020E, Government), this course prepares students to work as early childhood educators, centre directors, or family day care coordinators. The curriculum aligns with the VET national code CHC50121 and covers essential skills such as designing educational programs, supporting children's wellbeing, and managing compliance with National Quality Standards. International students benefit from Australia's robust ESOS protections, guaranteeing course quality and consumer rights. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets strict government requirements for overseas students, including transparent fee structures and student support services. TAFE Queensland's long-standing reputation in vocational education ensures industry-relevant training that meets employer expectations.
This diploma falls under the field of education (07 - Teacher Education, 070101 - Teacher Education: Early Childhood). Students typically learn to design and implement curriculum for children from birth to age five, foster inclusive environments, and lead teams in early childhood settings. Core topics include child development theories, pedagogical practices, family partnerships, and regulatory frameworks. Graduates emerge with advanced skills in assessment, documentation, and reflective practice, preparing them for supervisory roles. While the exact syllabus is determined by TAFE Queensland, the CRICOS registration ensures the course meets national competency standards. This qualification provides a pathway to further study in early childhood teaching at university level.
The course duration is 51 weeks (~12 months) as recorded on the CRICOS register. Instruction is delivered in English, and the program is a single qualification (no dual award). TAFE Queensland offers this diploma full-time, typically with a mix of classroom learning and practical placement. The academic year usually includes scheduled breaks, allowing students to work up to 40 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during holidays, subject to student visa conditions. This structure enables international students to balance study with work experience and explore Queensland's vibrant lifestyle.
The indicative tuition fee for Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care at TAFE Queensland is A$11,600, with no additional non-tuition fees listed on the CRICOS register, bringing the estimated total to A$11,600. Please note: these fees are indicative only and sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026. Fees are set by TAFE Queensland and subject to change without notice. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the student visa application charge. For current fee details, always refer to TAFE Queensland's official website at www.tafeqld.edu.au. International students must also demonstrate financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs (approximately A$24,000 per year), and OSHC as part of visa requirements.
General entry requirements for this diploma include English language proficiency: IELTS 5.5-6.0 overall (or equivalent). Students are expected to have completed an Australian Year 12 or equivalent qualification. No prior study in early childhood is mandatory, but some institutions may require a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care or relevant work experience. Foundation or pathway programs may be available through TAFE Queensland for students who do not meet direct entry criteria. Always check with TAFE Queensland for specific academic prerequisites and English test alternatives. International students should also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement as part of their visa application.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 20 weeks, 15 hours per week (approximately 300 total hours). This work-integrated learning involves an industry placement or internship in an early childhood setting, such as a childcare centre or preschool. The placement allows students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world environments, build professional networks, and gain practical skills required for employment. Under student visa conditions, the placement is considered part of the course and does not count towards work hour limits. TAFE Queensland coordinates placement arrangements to ensure alignment with learning outcomes and workplace safety standards.
TAFE Queensland delivers the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care at six campuses across Queensland: Ipswich (Bundamba), Mooloolaba (Mountain Creek), Robina (Robina), South Bank (South Brisbane), Southport (Southport), and Springfield (Springfield Central). Each location offers unique advantages. South Bank is in Brisbane's cultural precinct with excellent public transport. Southport and Robina serve the Gold Coast, a popular student destination with a large international student population. Ipswich and Springfield are growing centres with affordable living costs. Mooloolaba on the Sunshine Coast offers a relaxed coastal lifestyle. Queensland has over 150 CRICOS-registered providers, and TAFE Queensland's government status ensures quality education. Students should consider proximity to accommodation, part-time work opportunities, and lifestyle preferences when choosing a campus.
International students require a Student Visa (Subclass 500) to study this course on a full-time basis. Visa conditions include: maintain enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, meet attendance and academic progress requirements, hold adequate Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and comply with work limitations (48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks). The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement must be satisfied, demonstrating that the student intends to stay in Australia temporarily for study. Financial capacity proofs, including tuition fees, living expenses, and OSHC, are mandatory. The ESOS Act provides protections such as tuition fee refund guarantees and complaint processes. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs for personalised advice.
Queensland, known for its warm climate and vibrant cities, is a popular study destination with over 30,000 international students enrolled in CRICOS-registered courses. Living costs vary by city: Brisbane (South Bank campus) has indicative weekly rent of A$250-400, Gold Coast (Robina, Southport) A$300-450, and Sunshine Coast (Mooloolaba) A$280-400. Groceries average A$60-90 per week, and public transport is widely accessible with student discounts. The early childhood sector is growing, with demand for qualified educators across Australia. Studying with a government provider like TAFE Queensland ensures course quality and recognition. However, students must plan for OSHC (approximately A$550-800 per year) and visa fees (A$1,600). Consider whether you prefer a metropolitan or regional campus, and research part-time job opportunities in the area.
Follow these three steps to enrol in Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS 109290B) at TAFE Queensland: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy's course finder to filter by course level (Diploma), field (Education), and location (Queensland). Confirm that TAFE Queensland (CRICOS 03020E) offers the course. 2. Apply directly to TAFE Queensland: Visit www.tafeqld.edu.au, check entry requirements (including English test scores), and submit your application with supporting documents. Adhere to application deadlines. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, TAFE Queensland will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs, ensuring you have valid OSHC and sufficient funds.
Start your application today by researching CRICOS-registered providers and contacting TAFE Queensland directly for the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care.
Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at TAFE Queensland. 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.