Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 110715E) is a Diploma delivered by Holmesglen Institute over 51 weeks (~12 months). This qualification equips you with the skills to work as an early childhood educator in a range of settings, including preschools, kindergartens, and child care centres. Holmesglen Institute is a government-owned TAFE with CRICOS registration (00012G), ensuring you receive quality education under Australia's ESOS Act protections. Located in Victoria, the course combines theoretical study with a mandatory 20-week (300-hour) work placement, giving you real-world experience. As an international student, you'll benefit from Melbourne's vibrant education hub, which hosts over 200,000 international students and numerous CRICOS-registered providers. HeadStart Academy is your free resource for exploring CRICOS-registered courses—no commissions, just accurate data from the official register.
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This Diploma falls under the field of Education (Teacher Education: Early Childhood) at AQF Level 5. You'll develop competencies to plan and implement educational programs for children from birth to age five, foster inclusive learning environments, and collaborate with families and communities. Core units cover child development, curriculum design, health and safety, and leadership in early childhood settings. While specific syllabus details are provided by Holmesglen Institute, graduates typically emerge ready to lead teams and manage early childhood services. This course does not lead to a dual qualification and is not a foundation studies program. The VET national code is CHC50121, confirming alignment with national competency standards.
The course is 51 weeks (~12 months) as registered on CRICOS. Instruction is in English full-time on campus. It is a single qualification program—not combined with another course. You'll attend classes at either Moorabbin Campus or Waverley Campus, both located in Melbourne's southeastern suburbs. This structure allows you to immerse fully in your studies while having time for part-time work (up to 48 hours per fortnight during term) under your student visa.
Tuition fees are A$17,220 for the full program, with non-tuition fees of A$620 (including materials, student services, and amenities). Total estimated cost is A$17,840. These are indicative figures sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026—always confirm current fees on Holmesglen Institute's official website. Not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the student visa application charge. For budgeting, Melbourne's weekly living costs (rent, groceries, transport) range from A$350 to A$600. The Australian Department of Home Affairs recommends minimum funds of A$21,041 per year for living costs.
International students need an IELTS overall band score of 5.5–6.0 (or equivalent) to demonstrate English proficiency. You should also hold qualifications equivalent to Australian Year 12 or Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care. Prior study in a related field may be recognised. If you don't meet these, Holmesglen may offer foundation or pathway programs—contact them directly for options. Remember, meeting entry requirements does not guarantee a visa; you must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion and other Department of Home Affairs conditions.
Yes, this course includes a mandatory work placement: 20 weeks at 15 hours per week (approximately 300 total hours). This work-integrated learning component is an industry placement in an early childhood education setting, such as a long day care centre or preschool. It allows you to apply classroom theory under supervision, build professional networks, and gain practical experience valued by employers. The placement is arranged by Holmesglen Institute and is integral to meeting the competency requirements of CHC50121.
Holmesglen Institute delivers this course at two campuses: Moorabbin Campus in Moorabbin and Waverley Campus in Glen Waverley, both in Victoria's Greater Melbourne area. Moorabbin is about 16 km southeast of Melbourne's CBD, while Glen Waverley is roughly 20 km east. Both are well-served by public transport (train and bus). Melbourne itself is Australia's second-largest city, with over 1,000 CRICOS-registered providers and a diverse student population. Living costs here are moderate compared to Sydney—indicative weekly rent for a shared apartment is A$200–350, groceries A$80–150, and a monthly transport pass around A$150.
To study this course in Australia, you need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), OSHC for the duration of your stay, sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and travel, and a genuine intention to stay temporarily (GTE criterion). As a student visa holder, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during course sessions and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Your family members may accompany you on a Student Dependent visa if eligible. For detailed advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs. All CRICOS-registered courses are covered by the ESOS Act, which guarantees tuition protection and consumer rights.
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to find all providers offering Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care in Victoria. Compare course details, fees, and locations. Confirm Holmesglen Institute is listed (CRICOS 00012G). 2. Apply directly to Holmesglen Institute: Check entry requirements, submit academic transcripts and English test results (IELTS 5.5–6.0), and meet application deadlines. Apply online through Holmesglen's international admissions portal. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, Holmesglen will issue your CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Include OSHC evidence, financial documents, and a Genuine Temporary Entrant statement. Processing times vary—allow at least 6–8 weeks.
Melbourne offers a rich multicultural environment, with over 200 languages spoken and a strong demand for qualified early childhood educators. The city has hundreds of CRICOS-registered education providers, including Holmesglen Institute, a reputable government TAFE. Living costs are lower than in Sydney, with weekly expenses around A$400–700. Public transport is affordable, and the city is known for its quality of life. However, competition for part-time jobs may be higher due to the large student population. Consider your career goals—early childhood education graduates are in demand both in Australia and globally. Always verify the latest job market conditions through the Australian Government's Labour Market Insights.
Ready to pursue your early childhood career? Start your journey by exploring more CRICOS-registered courses on HeadStart Academy.
Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Holmesglen Institute. 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.