Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 110937B) is a Diploma delivered by Department of Training and Workforce Development over 1 year. This qualification, aligned with AQF Level 5, prepares graduates to work as early childhood educators in a range of settings including long day care, preschools, and family day care. Students gain practical skills in child development, program planning, and regulatory compliance, with a strong emphasis on work-integrated learning. The course is offered at seven campuses across Western Australia, providing flexibility for students in both metropolitan and regional areas. As a CRICOS-registered course (110937B), it meets Australian standards for international students, with ESOS Act protections applying throughout the program. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource; always verify details with the provider and official sources.
This Diploma, classified under Field of Education 070101 (Teacher Education: Early Childhood), covers the knowledge and skills required to design and implement curriculum for children from birth to age five. Students learn about child development theories, creating inclusive learning environments, building partnerships with families, and managing children's health and safety. The course also addresses legal and ethical frameworks in early childhood education, including the National Quality Framework (NQF) and Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF). While specific syllabus details should be confirmed with the provider, graduates of this level typically demonstrate competency in leading teams, supervising staff, and developing educational programs. The vocational code CHC50121 is the national training package code for this qualification.
According to the CRICOS register, the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care runs for 1 year (52 weeks). Instruction is delivered in English. This is a single qualification without a dual award or foundation studies component. Students attend classes face-to-face at one of the seven campus locations listed below. Full-time study typically involves a combination of classroom learning and practical placement hours.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$13,752, with additional non-tuition fees of A$948, bringing the estimated total to A$14,700. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change by the provider. **Tuition does not include** Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. OSHC is mandatory for international students and costs approximately A$500–A$700 per year for single cover. Living costs in Western Australia vary; weekly rent for a shared apartment in Perth averages A$250–A$350, with additional costs for groceries (A$80–A$100) and public transport (A$40–A$60). We strongly recommend confirming current fees directly with the provider at [their website](http://www.tafeinternational.wa.edu.au/).
International students typically need an IELTS overall score of 5.5 to 6.0, or equivalent English language test results. For this Diploma level (AQF 5), applicants are generally expected to have completed an Australian Year 12 qualification or equivalent, or a relevant Certificate III or IV. Students with prior experience in early childhood may be eligible for recognition of prior learning (RPL). Foundation or pathway options — such as a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care — may be available; contact the provider for details. The Department of Training and Workforce Development reviews applications individually to assess equivalency.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 34 weeks at 22 hours per week, totalling approximately 748 hours. This work-integrated learning takes the form of industry placement in an early childhood education setting, such as a childcare centre or preschool. Students apply classroom theory to real-world practice, developing supervisory and planning skills under the guidance of qualified educators. The placement hours are integrated into the overall course schedule and are a critical part of meeting the National Quality Framework requirements for early childhood educators.
The Diploma is delivered at seven TAFE campuses across Western Australia, offering students flexibility to study in both metropolitan and regional settings: - Central Regional TAFE - Kalgoorlie Campus (KALGOORLIE, WA) - Central Regional TAFE, Geraldton Campus (Geraldton, WA) - Central Regional TAFE, Northam Campus (Northam, WA) - North Metropolitan TAFE, Leederville Campus (Leederville, WA) - North Regional TAFE, Broome Campus (Broome, WA) - South Metropolitan TAFE, Murdoch Campus (Murdoch, WA) Each campus is located within proximity to public transport and local amenities. Regional campuses offer a lower cost of living compared to Perth, with rental prices generally 20–30% cheaper. Studying in a regional area can also provide additional points for future skilled migration applications.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course on a full-time basis. Visa holders are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (conditions apply). Applicants must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, providing evidence of genuine intention to study in Australia. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory for the duration of the visa. Financial capacity evidence must show sufficient funds for tuition, living costs (A$21,041 per year for a single student), and travel. For visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
**Step 1: Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use the official CRICOS register on TEQSA's website or trusted resources like HeadStart Academy to shortlist providers offering this course. Filter by study level, field, and city to find the best fit. Ensure the course code (110937B) and provider (00020G) are registered.
**Step 2: Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Submit an application to the Department of Training and Workforce Development through their international TAFE application portal. Prepare required documents: academic transcripts, English test results (IELTS 5.5+), proof of previous qualifications, and a copy of your passport. Check application deadlines for your intended intake (usually February and July).
**Step 3: Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** – Once accepted, the provider will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) with the Department of Home Affairs. Include OSHC evidence, financial documents, and GTE statement. Processing times vary; apply at least 8 weeks before course start date.
Western Australia offers a unique combination of strong employment demand in early childhood education, particularly in growing regional centres like Kalgoorlie, Geraldton, and Broome. Perth, the capital, is home to over 200,000 international students from diverse backgrounds. The state has 30+ CRICOS-registered providers offering early childhood courses. Living costs outside Perth are significantly lower, with weekly rent in regional towns averaging A$180–A$250 for a single room. Public transport connects all major campuses; the Perth metropolitan area has a well-established bus and train network, while regional campuses often have free or subsidised student bus services. Consider your preference for urban vs regional lifestyle, climate (Perth enjoys over 3,000 hours of sunshine annually), and post-study work opportunities — graduates with a Diploma may be eligible for a 1.5 to 2-year post-study work visa depending on location.
Ready to start your journey? Explore this and other CRICOS-registered courses on HeadStart Academy, and take the next step toward studying in Australia.
View the full Department of Training and Workforce Development profile →
Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Department of Training and Workforce Development. 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.