Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 114301F) is a Diploma delivered by The Lions Institute Pty Ltd over 1 year. This nationally accredited qualification (CHC50121) equips students with the skills to lead and manage early childhood education programs, supervise staff, and ensure compliance with regulatory frameworks. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 03727C), it meets Australian Government standards for international students. The Lions Institute delivers this program at its Burwood campus in Sydney, New South Wales, offering a pathway to roles such as Early Childhood Educator, Centre Director, or Educational Leader. With a mandatory work component of 300 hours, students gain practical experience in Australian childcare settings. Before enrolling, it's essential to check entry requirements, fees, and visa conditions. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource, sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026).
Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 114301F) is a Diploma (AQF Level 5) delivered by The Lions Institute Pty Ltd over 1 year (52 weeks). The course falls under the field of Education (07 - Teacher Education: Early Childhood). This qualification prepares graduates to design and implement curriculum that supports children's learning and development from birth to 5 years. Graduates may pursue roles in long day care, preschools, or family day care settings. The program is delivered in English and is a single qualification (no dual or foundation components). The work-integrated learning component (15 weeks, 20 hrs/week, ~300 total hours) involves supervised industry placement in an approved early childhood service. All CRICOS-registered courses must meet the ESOS Act protections, ensuring quality education and student support. The Lions Institute is one of over 1,500 providers on the CRICOS register, offering more than 26,000 courses to international students.
This Diploma focuses on teacher education for early childhood. Students develop advanced skills in child development, curriculum design, and leadership. Typical learning outcomes include planning engaging learning experiences, assessing children's progress, managing workplace teams, and building partnerships with families. While specific units vary by provider, the course generally covers child health and safety, cultural competence, and regulatory compliance. Graduates are prepared to work autonomously and supervise others. This qualification is recognised under the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) and meets national industry standards. As an international student, you'll benefit from Australia's high-quality education system and the support services offered by CRICOS-registered institutions.
The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is delivered over 1 year (52 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification—no dual awards or foundation studies are offered. Students are expected to attend classes and complete workplace placements. The Lions Institute may offer part-time options, but international students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with student visa conditions. The campus at 4 Railway Pde Burwood provides easy access via public transport, with Burwood station a short walk away. Sydney is home to over 200 CRICOS-registered providers offering early childhood education courses, making it a vibrant study destination.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$15,500, with non-tuition fees of A$2,500, bringing the estimated total to A$18,000. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. They do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. For current fees, always confirm directly with The Lions Institute. As a guide, living expenses in Sydney are approximately A$700–A$1,000 per week for rent, food, and transport. OSHC costs around A$600–A$800 per year. The Department of Home Affairs requires evidence of sufficient funds for your stay. HeadStart Academy recommends budgeting for these additional costs.
International students typically need an IELTS score of 5.5–6.0 overall (or equivalent) and completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent. Prior qualifications in early childhood education may be recognised. The Lions Institute may have specific prerequisites—contact them directly. Some providers offer pathway programs, such as a Certificate III, before the Diploma. There are no foundation studies for this course. Always check the provider's website for the latest requirements. Meeting entry criteria does not guarantee admission; the provider makes the final decision.
This course includes a mandatory work-integrated learning component: 15 weeks of placement at 20 hours per week, totalling approximately 300 hours. This is a structured industry placement in a regulated early childhood service, such as a long day care centre or preschool. Students apply theoretical knowledge in real settings, develop professional skills, and build networks. Placements are supervised by qualified educators. This practical experience is critical for meeting the requirements of the qualification and is often a prerequisite for graduation. The Lions Institute will arrange placement opportunities, but students may need to meet additional requirements like a Working with Children Check.
The course is delivered at 4 Railway Pde, Burwood, NSW 2134, in the suburb of Burwood, approximately 12 km west of Sydney's central business district. Burwood is a vibrant multicultural hub with excellent transport links—Burwood Station is on the T1, T2, and T9 lines, and buses connect to surrounding areas. The suburb has a large student population, with many cafes, libraries, and affordable housing options. Sydney's cost of living is higher than other Australian cities, but Burwood offers a balance of convenience and culture. When studying in New South Wales, remember that living costs can vary; budget around A$400–$600 per week for rent in shared accommodation.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. Key conditions include full-time enrolment, maintaining satisfactory attendance and progress, and holding OSHC. Work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. You must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement and provide evidence of financial capacity. Visa applications are processed by the Department of Home Affairs. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; consult a registered MARA agent or visit homeaffairs.gov.au for personalised advice. The ESOS Act protects your rights as an international student.
Follow these three steps: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to compare Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care courses across providers in your preferred location. Filter by course level, field, and city to find options like this one at The Lions Institute. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check entry requirements (English test scores, prior qualifications, etc.) and submit your application through The Lions Institute's website. Ensure you meet deadlines and provide all required documents. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, you'll get a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs, including OSHC and proof of funds.
Early childhood education is a rewarding field with growing demand in Australia. Before committing, consider your career goals: do you want to work as an educator, lead a centre, or specialise in areas like special needs? This Diploma is a pathway to management roles. The work component means you'll need to be organised and willing to learn in a practical setting. Location matters: Burwood offers a lively student environment but also higher living costs. Sydney has many registered providers, so you can compare options. Check if the qualification is recognised in your home country if you plan to return. Also, ensure you meet the English requirements—IELTS 5.5-6.0 is typical but some providers may require higher. Finally, budget for all costs including OSHC, living expenses, and potential visa fees.
Ready to start your journey? Explore more Diploma courses in early childhood education at HeadStart Academy. All data sourced from the official CRICOS register—trustworthy and free.
Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at The Lions Institute 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.