Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 111782H) is a Diploma delivered by TAFE SA over 1 year. This qualification prepares you to work as an early childhood educator in settings such as long day care centres, preschools, and family day care. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 00092B), international students can study with confidence, knowing it meets Australian Government standards. TAFE SA is a leading government-owned vocational provider in South Australia, with a strong reputation for quality training. Located in Adelaide, the Regency Park Campus offers modern facilities and industry connections. This diploma is classified under AQF Level 5 and falls within the field of Children's Services (090503). With a duration of 52 weeks, it includes a work component of approximately 280 hours, giving you practical experience. As a student, you benefit from ESOS Act protections. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource, sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026.
Field of education: Society and Culture, specifically Children's Services (090503). At AQF Level 5, this diploma develops advanced practical and theoretical skills in early childhood education. Students learn to analyze children's learning needs, design educational programs, and evaluate outcomes. Core areas include: promoting children's rights, ensuring ethical practices, and building partnerships with families. The course also covers regulatory frameworks such as the National Quality Framework, preparing you to work in compliance with legal requirements. Graduates are equipped to plan and implement inclusive learning experiences for children from birth to five years. The curriculum integrates contemporary theories of child development and pedagogy, ensuring you are ready for diverse early childhood settings.
Duration: 1 year (52 weeks) as per the CRICOS register. Language of instruction: English. This is a single qualification — not a dual or foundation course. The course is delivered full-time, with a mix of classroom learning and practical placement. TAFE SA offers face-to-face classes at its Regency Park Campus. Students typically have approximately 20 contact hours per week, plus self-study. The work component is integrated across 40 weeks, requiring around 7 hours per week (total ~280 hours). International students must maintain full-time enrolment to meet student visa conditions. The course is structured over two semesters, with intakes typically in February and July. Always confirm exact study mode and timetable with the provider.
Tuition fee: A$14,490. Non-tuition fees: A$0. Estimated total: A$14,490. These figures are indicative, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 — fees are set by the institution and subject to change. International students should also budget for Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), typically A$500–700 per year, and living expenses. The Department of Home Affairs requires evidence of at least A$21,041 per year for living costs. Additional costs include visa application charges (A$1,600) and travel. For current fees, always check TAFE SA's official website (http://www.tafesa.edu.au/international). HeadStart Academy recommends budgeting an estimated A$38,000–40,000 per year to cover all expenses.
English language: Typically IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall (or equivalent such as TOEFL or PTE). For this diploma, an IELTS score of 6.0 with no band less than 5.5 is commonly required. Academic requirements: Completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent international qualification. Some providers may require prior study in a related field. If you do not meet direct entry, pathway options such as a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care or English language courses (ELICOS) may be available. TAFE SA assesses overseas qualifications for equivalence. Always confirm the specific entry requirements on TAFE SA's international admissions page before applying.
Yes, this course includes a mandatory work component: 40 weeks, with approximately 280 total hours (about 7 hours per week). This is an industry placement in an early childhood education setting such as a licensed child care centre, preschool, or kindergarten. Under the guidance of qualified educators, you will plan and deliver activities, observe children's development, and engage with families. The placement allows you to apply classroom learning in a real environment, develop professional skills, and build a network for employment. It is an integral part of the CHC50121 qualification and essential for meeting competency standards. Practical training is assessed through supervised work hours and portfolio evidence.
As listed on CRICOS: Regency Park Campus — REGENCY PARK, SA. This campus is located in the Adelaide metropolitan area, approximately 10 km north of the city centre. Regency Park is a light industrial suburb with good transport links. TAFE SA's facility features modern classrooms, simulated early childhood environments, and child care facilities for practical training. Adelaide itself is South Australia's capital, known for its affordable cost of living and vibrant student community — over 30,000 international students study in Adelaide. Public transport includes buses and trains, with student concessions available. For more on studying in South Australia, see HeadStart Academy's state guide.
Adelaide offers a high quality of life at a lower cost compared to Sydney or Melbourne. With a population of around 1.3 million, it has a friendly atmosphere and a strong sense of community. The city is home to several universities and vocational institutions, including TAFE SA. Studying early childhood education here gives you access to a growing childcare sector, with many centres in suburban areas like Regency Park. Cost of living: rent for a shared apartment is around A$200–300 per week, groceries A$80–120 per week, and public transport is affordable with a student concession. Over 37,000 international students were enrolled in South Australia in 2025, making it a welcoming destination. Consider your preferences for climate, culture, and lifestyle when choosing a study location.
To study this course, you need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows full-time study in Australia. Work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks. You must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and demonstrate financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. Financial evidence includes bank statements or loan approval. The current cost of living requirement is A$21,041 per year (excluding tuition). OSHC can be purchased through TAFE SA or an approved provider. For visa application details, consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered MARA agent. HeadStart Academy provides information only — always seek professional immigration advice.
Follow these three steps specific to Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care at TAFE SA:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – Use HeadStart Academy's course search to find TAFE SA's course (CRICOS provider 00092B, course code 111782H). Verify CRICOS registration status and course details.
2. Apply directly to TAFE SA – Check entry requirements including English test scores and academic qualifications. Submit your application via TAFE SA's international student portal. Be mindful of intake dates (typically February and July) and application deadlines.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – Once accepted, TAFE SA issues a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application online. Ensure you have OSHC, sufficient funds, and meet GTE requirements. Seek advice from a registered migration agent if needed.
Ready to apply? Explore more courses on HeadStart Academy or contact us for guidance.
Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at TAFE SA. 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.