Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 111445C) is a Diploma delivered by Iascend Polytechnic Pty Ltd over 1 year. This qualification is ideal for international students aiming to work as early childhood educators in Australia. Registered on the CRICOS register (provider 02961A), this course blends theoretical knowledge with 300 hours of work-integrated learning. Whether you're planning to study in Melbourne or regional Victoria, HeadStart Academy provides the facts you need to make an informed choice. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026.
The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS 111445C) is a one-year program at AQF Level 5, offered by Iascend Polytechnic Pty Ltd (CRICOS 02961A). It falls under the field of Education (07) with a focus on Early Childhood Teacher Education (070101). The VET national code is CHC50121. This course is designed to prepare graduates for roles such as early childhood educator, centre director, or family day care coordinator. Iascend Polytechnic is a private provider based in Victoria, with delivery locations in Bright and West Melbourne. International students benefit from ESOS Act protections, ensuring quality standards and tuition fee safeguards. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government requirements for international student enrolment.
The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care covers key areas of early childhood development, including curriculum planning, child health and safety, inclusive practices, and family partnerships. Students learn to design and implement educational programs for children from birth to five years, in line with the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF). While HeadStart Academy does not provide a syllabus, typical content at this level includes child development theories, fostering social and emotional wellbeing, and leading teams in early childhood settings. Graduates gain the skills to work across long day care, preschool, and kindergarten environments. This qualification is a common pathway to a Bachelor of Early Childhood Education.
The course runs for 1 year (52 weeks) according to the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (no dual award) and does not include foundation studies. Study mode is typically full-time on campus, but students should confirm delivery format with Iascend Polytechnic. The course includes 40 weeks of work placement (7.5 hours per week), totalling approximately 300 hours of practical experience. This work component is a mandatory part of the program, allowing students to apply their learning in real early childhood settings.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$10,500, with non-tuition fees of A$100, giving an estimated total of A$10,600. Please note: these fees are sourced from the CRICOS register and are subject to change. Additional costs include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (approximately A$520 per week for a single student in Victoria), and the visa application charge (currently A$1,600 for Subclass 500). HeadStart Academy recommends always checking the latest fees on the provider's website at www.mcfe.com.au before applying. ESOS Act protections mean international students receive a refund if the provider fails to deliver the course.
International students are typically expected to have completed a qualification equivalent to an Australian Year 12 or Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care. English language proficiency is usually required at IELTS 5.5 overall (with no band below 5.0) or equivalent for Diploma level. Some providers may require IELTS 6.0. Iascend Polytechnic may also consider relevant work experience or foundation programs. Since these requirements are set by the institution, always confirm with the provider. For additional pathway options (e.g., English language courses), visit the provider's website. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice – consult a registered migration agent for visa eligibility.
The Diploma includes a supervised work placement of 300 hours (40 weeks at 7.5 hours per week). This industry placement involves working in a registered early childhood education setting, such as a childcare centre or kindergarten, under professional supervision. Students develop practical skills in planning activities, interacting with children and families, and complying with regulations. The placement is a requirement for graduation and is typically arranged by the provider in collaboration with local centres. For students in Bright or West Melbourne, placements may be available at nearby facilities. This hands-on experience is invaluable for understanding Australian workplace culture and building professional networks.
This course is delivered at two locations in Victoria: Alpine View CC in Bright (regional Victoria) and West Melbourne (Unit 39, 617-643 Spencer St, West Melbourne VIC 3003). Bright is a town in the Alpine Shire, about 320 km from Melbourne, known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities. West Melbourne is a suburb close to Melbourne's CBD, with excellent public transport (trams and trains). Victoria has over 200 CRICOS-registered providers offering courses across all study levels. Living costs in Victoria average around A$520 per week for rent, food, and transport – which is higher in Melbourne than regional areas. Both campuses offer a unique study experience, with West Melbourne providing city access and Bright offering a quieter lifestyle.
International students studying this course must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, having sufficient funds for tuition and living costs, and maintaining Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. After completing this Diploma, graduates may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) if they meet the requirements, including having competent English. Always check the Department of Home Affairs website for current visa conditions. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; we recommend consulting a registered MARA agent for personalised advice.
Follow these three steps to apply:
**Step 1: Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy to compare courses. Ensure the provider and course are CRICOS-registered (Iascend Polytechnic is CRICOS 02961A). Check entry requirements, location, and fees.
**Step 2: Apply directly to Iascend Polytechnic** – Submit your application through their website (www.mcfe.com.au) with academic transcripts, English test results, and other documents. Meet deadlines and follow their admissions process.
**Step 3: Receive your CoE and apply for a Student visa** – If accepted, you'll receive a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). Use it to apply for a Subclass 500 visa via immi.homeaffairs.gov.au. Include evidence of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE statement.
Ready to start your early childhood education journey? Use HeadStart Academy to compare CRICOS-registered courses and apply to Iascend Polytechnic today.
Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Iascend Polytechnic 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.