Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 112419H) is a Diploma delivered by Harbourside Institute of Australia Pty Ltd over 1 year. This AQF Level 5 qualification sits within the field of Teacher Education: Early Childhood (070101), preparing graduates to work as early childhood educators in a range of settings. As a CRICOS-registered course (CRICOS 03670D), international students can study this program on a Student visa (Subclass 500). With Australia home to over 1,500 providers and 26,000+ courses, this Diploma offers a pathway to employment in Australia's growing early childhood sector. Hosted by HeadStart Academy (headstartacademy.com.au), this page provides accurate, fee-indicative data sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026.
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This Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS 112419H) is a 1-year (52-week) program delivered by Harbourside Institute of Australia Pty Ltd, a private CRICOS-registered provider (03670D). The course belongs to the field of Teacher Education: Early Childhood, focusing on child development, curriculum planning, and ethical practice. Graduates are equipped to design and implement educational programs for children from birth to 5 years. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards for international students, including ESOS Act protections. All data here is sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026).
This Diploma covers core competencies in early childhood education, including child development, health and safety, program planning, and inclusive practices. Students learn to foster children's learning and development through play-based activities, build relationships with families, and comply with regulatory frameworks. The curriculum aligns with the Australian Children's Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA) standards. While specific unit details are set by the provider, typical subjects include ethical practice, cultural competence, and leadership in education settings.
The course runs for 1 year (52 weeks) as listed on the CRICOS register. Instruction is in English. This is a single qualification (no dual award) and is not a foundation studies program. The provider may offer full-time study in a classroom or mixed-mode delivery; confirm with Harbourside Institute directly. The duration is typical for a Diploma-level course in Australia.
Indicative fees from the CRICOS register: Tuition A$16,000, non-tuition fees A$800, estimated total A$16,800. These fees are set by Harbourside Institute and are subject to change. Always confirm current fees on their website (www.harbourside.nsw.edu.au). Additional costs include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (e.g., Sydney: rent ~A$350-600/week, groceries ~A$80-150/week, transport ~A$40-60/week), and the Student visa application charge (currently A$1,600). For up-to-date fee information, visit the provider's site. HeadStart Academy does not charge referral fees.
General guidance for this level: IELTS 5.5-6.0 overall (or equivalent). Applicants should have completed an Australian Year 12 or equivalent. Prior study in early childhood education may be advantageous. Foundation or pathway options are available; check with Harbourside Institute for specific requirements. English language waivers may apply if previous study was in English. Always verify with the provider and refer to the Department of Home Affairs for visa English requirements.
Yes, this course includes a work component of 36 weeks, with approximately 8 total hours per week (specific hours per week vary). This practical placement in an early childhood education setting allows students to apply theoretical knowledge under supervision. It is a mandatory part of the Diploma and must be completed in a CRICOS-compliant arrangement. Such placements are common in VET courses and count towards the course duration.
The course is delivered at two locations in Sydney, NSW: Harris Street in Ultimo and Shop 118, 243 Pyrmont Street in Pyrmont. Both are in close proximity. Sydney is Australia's largest city with a diverse student population (over 200,000 international students). Public transport (trains, buses, light rail) connects these suburbs to the CBD. Living costs in Sydney are higher than the national average; plan for indicative weekly rent of A$350–600. As a study destination, Sydney offers many CRICOS-registered providers (over 600) and a vibrant multicultural environment.
International students need a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. Visa conditions include: maintain OSHC cover, satisfy Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, and demonstrate financial capacity (tuition, living costs, travel). Work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks. Visa holders must comply with ESOS Act protections. For visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs. HeadStart Academy provides general guidance only.
Sydney offers a dynamic study environment with excellent public transport, beaches, and a large job market for early childhood educators. However, it has a higher cost of living compared to other Australian cities. Consider your budget for rent (A$350-600/week) and lifestyle preferences. NSW has many CRICOS-registered providers offering Diploma-level courses—over 200 in early childhood-related fields. This course's locations in Ultimo and Pyrmont are well-connected by bus and light rail. For a quieter, more affordable option, regional NSW campuses exist, but this course is metro-focused.
Follow these three steps to enrol in Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (112419H) at Harbourside Institute of Australia Pty Ltd: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – use HeadStart Academy to compare this course with others. 2. Apply directly to Harbourside Institute – meet entry requirements (English test, academic transcripts) and submit your application before deadlines. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – include OSHC and financial evidence. For personalised assistance, contact the provider directly.
Ready to study Early Childhood Education? Use HeadStart Academy to compare CRICOS-registered courses, or contact Harbourside Institute directly for the latest fees and enrolment details.
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Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Harbourside Institute of Australia 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.