Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 113167D) is a Diploma delivered by West Australian Institute of Further Studies Pty Ltd over 1 year. This qualification sits at AQF Level 5 and is designed for individuals who want to work as early childhood educators, responsible for planning, implementing, and evaluating programs for children in various settings such as childcare centres, preschools, and family day care. Graduates gain the skills to lead teams, foster children's development, and ensure compliance with regulations. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets the standards required for international students to obtain a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study in Australia. The course includes a significant work component, providing practical experience that is essential for employment in the early childhood sector. With a focus on evidence-based practice and inclusive education, this diploma prepares students for rewarding careers in early childhood education and care.
The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care falls under the broad field of Education (07) and specifically Teacher Education: Early Childhood (070101). At this level, students learn to design, implement, and evaluate developmentally appropriate programs for children from birth to five years. Core topics include child development, health and safety, fostering positive relationships, cultural competence, and legal frameworks. Graduates are trained to lead teams, mentor other educators, and work in partnership with families and communities. The curriculum builds practical skills in observation, documentation, and reflective practice, ensuring graduates are ready to meet the National Quality Standards. While exact subjects vary by provider, the CHC50121 national competency set covers units such as 'Develop positive and respectful relationships with children', 'Support children's health, safety and wellbeing', and 'Nurture creativity in children'.
This course has a duration of 1 year (52 weeks) as registered on CRICOS. It is delivered full-time in English. There is no dual qualification or foundation studies component. Students attend classes at the Perth campus and also undertake a mandatory work placement. The study mode is face-to-face, with some providers offering blended learning options – confirm with West Australian Institute of Further Studies Pty Ltd for current delivery methods. As a single qualification, it provides a focused pathway into the early childhood education profession.
Tuition fees for this course are indicative at A$9,950, with additional non-tuition fees of A$1,200, giving an estimated total of A$11,150. These fees are set by West Australian Institute of Further Studies Pty Ltd and sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. They do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the student visa application charge. International students should budget for additional costs such as accommodation, food, transport, and study materials. For current fees, always check the provider's website directly. As a guide, living costs in Perth are approximately A$400–A$500 per week for shared accommodation, plus groceries and transport.
For this diploma, international students generally need an IELTS overall score of 5.5 to 6.0 or equivalent English language proficiency. Applicants should have completed Australian Year 12 or equivalent. No specific prior qualifications are required for entry into this diploma level, but providers may assess suitability based on work experience or other criteria. Foundation or pathway options may be available for students who do not meet direct entry requirements – contact West Australian Institute of Further Studies Pty Ltd for details. All international students must meet Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirements for their student visa application.
Yes, this course includes a mandatory work component of 14 weeks at 20 hours per week, totaling approximately 280 hours. This is an industry placement where students gain hands-on experience in a licensed early childhood setting, such as a childcare centre or preschool. Under supervision, students apply their learning to real situations, developing practical skills in program delivery, child supervision, and teamwork. The placement is an integral part of the qualification and is assessed as part of the course. It also helps students build professional networks and enhances employability upon graduation.
This course is delivered at Level 1, 160 Central Arcade, 811 Hay Street, Perth WA 6000. Perth is the capital city of Western Australia, home to a diverse student population and many CRICOS-registered providers. The campus is centrally located near public transport, shopping, and amenities. Perth offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to Sydney or Melbourne, with average weekly rent for a one-bedroom unit around A$350–A$450. The city has a strong early childhood sector, with opportunities for placement and employment. Studying in Perth gives students a high-quality lifestyle with proximity to beaches and outdoor activities.
International students enrolling in this CRICOS-registered course are eligible to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows study in Australia full-time and includes work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Students must maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of their stay and demonstrate genuine temporary entrant (GTE) status. Financial capacity requirements include tuition, living costs (A$21,041 per year for a single student), and travel expenses. All visa conditions must be met to stay lawful. For specific advice, consult a registered migration agent or the Department of Home Affairs. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care at West Australian Institute of Further Studies Pty Ltd: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Compare courses by level, field, and location. HeadStart Academy helps you filter over 1,500 providers and 26,000 courses. Ensure your chosen institution is CRICOS-registered. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Meet entry requirements including English language proficiency (IELTS 5.5–6.0). Submit your application along with required documents (transcripts, passport copy, etc.). Check application deadlines – courses may have intake dates. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once the provider issues your CoE, you can lodge a visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Arrange OSHC health cover and show financial capacity. Remember to include the CoE number in your visa application.
Perth offers a unique study experience with a relaxed lifestyle and a strong economy. For early childhood education students, the city has a growing demand for qualified educators, with many childcare centres and preschools seeking diploma-trained staff. The cost of living is lower than in eastern capitals, making it attractive for international students. Public transport is efficient, with buses, trains, and the free CAT bus service in the city centre. Perth’s student population exceeds 50,000, with universities and VET providers creating a vibrant multicultural environment. However, consider the distance from other Australian cities – Perth is isolated, which may affect travel opportunities. Weigh these factors against your personal preferences when choosing your study destination.
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Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at West Australian Institute of Further Studies 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.