Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care

Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS 114222E)

Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 114222E) is a Diploma delivered by Australian College of Technology and Business Pty Ltd over 1 year. This qualification (AQF Level 5) prepares students to work as early childhood educators, supervising and managing teams in regulated children's education and care services. With a strong focus on practical skills, the course includes a mandatory work component of 14 weeks (280 hours) to ensure graduates are job-ready. HeadStart Academy presents this page as a free resource, sourcing data directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to help international students make informed decisions. All listed providers are CRICOS-registered, and ESOS Act protections apply to every course. Whether you are planning to work in childcare centres, kindergartens, or early learning programs, this diploma offers a pathway to a rewarding career in Australia's growing education sector.

All listed providers are CRICOS-registered with the Australian Government
Data sourced directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026)
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Covers 26,433 courses across all study levels and states

Course Overview

The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS 114222E) is a nationally recognised qualification (VET code CHC50121) offered by Australian College of Technology and Business Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03164M). As a private provider with multiple campuses, ACTB delivers this course at its Fortitude Valley location in Queensland. The course is designed for students who wish to become lead educators or managers in early childhood settings. It covers advanced topics such as designing and implementing curriculum, building family and community relationships, and leading teams. On completion, graduates may be eligible for roles such as early childhood educator, centre director, or family day care coordinator. HeadStart Academy ensures you have access to accurate CRICOS data — this course is one of over 26,000 courses available across 1,556 registered providers in Australia (April 2026).

What You'll Study

This diploma falls under the field of education (07) with a focus on early childhood teacher education (070101). Students develop professional knowledge and skills to support children's learning and development from birth to five years. Core units typically cover areas such as promoting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural safety, developing positive and respectful relationships, and designing and implementing play-based learning experiences. While specific unit offerings are determined by the provider, graduates at this level are expected to demonstrate initiative, problem-solving, and effective communication in complex early childhood environments. The course aligns with the Australian Children's Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA) standards, ensuring graduates meet national quality requirements.

Duration and Study Mode

According to the CRICOS register, the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is a 1-year program, equivalent to 52 weeks of full-time study. Language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (no dual award or foundation studies). Students are expected to attend classes and complete supervised work placement. The study mode is typically face-to-face at the delivery location. International students should be prepared for a full-time study load as per student visa conditions. HeadStart Academy notes that all CRICOS-registered courses have a standard duration; any variations must be approved by the provider and reported to the Department of Home Affairs.

Fees (Indicative)

The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$17,000, with non-tuition fees of A$2,000, making an estimated total of A$19,000. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026) and are set by Australian College of Technology and Business Pty Ltd. Note that fees are subject to change, so you should always confirm current costs directly with the provider at www.actb.com.au. Additional expenses not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the visa application charge. For context, international students in Fortitude Valley should budget approximately A$400–A$600 per week for accommodation, A$80–A$150 for groceries, and A$20–A$50 for transport. HeadStart Academy is a free resource and receives no referral fees from providers.

Entry Requirements (General Guidance)

For international students, typical English language requirements are IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall (or equivalent). Prior academic qualifications expected for this level include completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent, and satisfactory completion of a relevant Certificate III or other relevant experience. Foundation or pathway options may be available; contact Australian College of Technology and Business Pty Ltd for details. HeadStart Academy strongly recommends that you verify specific entry criteria with the provider and consult a registered migration agent for visa eligibility. Meeting entry requirements does not guarantee enrolment or a visa outcome.

Work Component

This course includes a mandatory work component of 14 weeks, 20 hours per week (approximately 280 total hours). This work-integrated learning typically takes the form of an industry placement in a licensed early childhood education and care service. Students gain hands-on experience in real childcare settings, applying theoretical knowledge under supervision. Placements are arranged by the provider and must be in a suitable regulated facility. This component is essential for meeting ACECQA requirements and may also contribute to the student's overall assessment. International students must ensure their visa conditions allow for unpaid work placements linked to their course; in general, work integrated learning that is a compulsory part of the curriculum is permitted under a Student visa (Subclass 500).

Delivery Locations

This course is delivered at 100 Brunswick Street, Fortitude Valley, Queensland. Fortitude Valley is a vibrant inner-city suburb of Brisbane, known for its entertainment precinct and proximity to the Brisbane CBD. The campus is easily accessible by public transport, including train and bus services. Queensland is home to over 200 CRICOS-registered providers (April 2026), offering a wide range of courses. The state has a large international student population, with Brisbane being a popular study destination due to its favourable climate and multicultural community. Living costs in Brisbane are generally lower than in Sydney or Melbourne, making it an attractive option for international students.

Student Visa

International students studying this course on campus in Australia will require a Student visa (Subclass 500). With this visa, students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays (subject to specific visa conditions). All students must maintain their Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, and maintain adequate Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). They must also demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and return travel. HeadStart Academy reminds you that student visa conditions are strictly enforced; failure to comply may result in visa cancellation. For detailed guidance, consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent (MARA). ESOS Act protections apply to all CRICOS-registered courses, safeguarding tuition fees and providing a complaints process.

How to Apply

Applying for the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care at Australian College of Technology and Business Pty Ltd is straightforward. Follow these steps: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to compare courses and confirm CRICOS registration. Filter by course level, field, and city to find suitable options. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Submit an application to ACTB (www.actb.com.au) with required documents including academic transcripts, proof of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS), and a statement of purpose. Check application deadlines and any additional requirements. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa: Once accepted, ACTB will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC, sufficient funds, and meet GTE requirements. HeadStart Academy is here to support your research — free of charge.

Ready to start your early childhood career? Compare your options with HeadStart Academy.

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Source-backed course facts

Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Australian College of Technology and Business Pty Ltd. Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.

CRICOS register extract

Course
Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care
CRICOS course code
114222E
Provider
Australian College of Technology and Business Pty Ltd (03164M)
Course level
Diploma
Field of education
07 - Education
Duration
52 weeks
Tuition (indicative)
A$17,000
Estimated total (indicative)
A$19,000
Delivery locations
Fortitude Valley
Work component
Yes (280 total hours)

This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.

Important notes for international students

  • Tuition and living-cost figures on this site are indicative only — confirm current fees with the provider before you accept an offer.
  • HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent and does not provide immigration advice. For Student visa (Subclass 500) rules, OSHC and financial capacity, verify with the Department of Home Affairs or a registered MARA agent.
  • Only CRICOS-registered providers may enrol overseas students. Always check the CRICOS course and provider codes on your offer and Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE).

Related pages

Frequently Asked Questions

The indicative tuition fee is A$17,000, with non-tuition fees of A$2,000, totalling approximately A$19,000. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by the provider. Additional costs include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (e.g., rent, food, transport), and the visa application fee. Always confirm the latest fees directly with ACTB as they are subject to change.
The course duration is 1 year (52 weeks) on the CRICOS register. This is a full-time program, and students are expected to complete it within the stated time frame. The course includes a 14-week work placement component integrated into the schedule.
International applicants typically need an IELTS score of 5.5–6.0 overall (or equivalent) and completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent. Prior study in Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care is often recommended. Additional prerequisites may apply; contact ACTB for specific requirements. Meeting entry requirements does not guarantee enrolment.
This course is delivered at 100 Brunswick Street, Fortitude Valley, Queensland. This campus is located in Brisbane's inner-north, close to public transport, shops, and student amenities. Fortitude Valley is a lively suburb with many cafes and entertainment options, making it a popular study location.
CRICOS lists estimated total fees of A$19,000 for Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (tuition A$17,000). Figures are indicative as at the April 2026 register snapshot — confirm current fees with Australian College of Technology and Business Pty Ltd before applying.
The CRICOS course code is 114222E, offered by Australian College of Technology and Business Pty Ltd (provider code 03164M). Use these codes when checking your offer and CoE.