Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 114465H) is a Diploma delivered by Hillshire Investment Pty Ltd over 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks). This AQF Level 5 qualification, registered under the VET national code CHC50121, prepares graduates for leadership roles in early childhood settings. As a CRICOS-registered provider (04133K), Hillshire Investment Pty Ltd meets Australian Government standards for delivering education to international students. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses; this program is one of them, reflecting the country's commitment to quality vocational education. Situated in Surry Hills, NSW, the course gives you access to Sydney's vibrant early childhood sector, with numerous childcare centres seeking qualified educators. Whether you aim to become a room leader, centre director, or family day care educator, this diploma provides the theoretical knowledge and practical skills required. All data on HeadStart Academy is sourced directly from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026, ensuring you get accurate, up-to-date information. We are a free resource with no referral fees, dedicated to helping you make informed study choices.
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Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 114465H) is a Diploma delivered by Hillshire Investment Pty Ltd over 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks). The course belongs to the field of Education (07), specifically Teacher Education: Early Childhood (070101). This is a VET course at AQF Level 5, meaning it combines advanced theoretical knowledge with practical application. Students learn about child development, curriculum design, family engagement, and regulatory compliance. The program includes a mandatory work component (12 weeks, 23.3 hours per week) to ensure graduates are job-ready. Hillshire Investment Pty Ltd is a private CRICOS-registered provider (04133K) that has been offering quality education to international students. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, this qualification is nationally recognised and covered by the ESOS Act, protecting your tuition fees and study rights. The course is delivered at the Surry Hills Campus in New South Wales, providing a central location with easy access to public transport and local early childhood services.
This diploma provides a comprehensive understanding of early childhood education and care. Typical subjects include child development from birth to school age, fostering creativity and play-based learning, designing inclusive programs, building partnerships with families and communities, and managing legal and ethical responsibilities. Students also explore topics such as cultural diversity, child safety, and sustainable practices in early childhood settings. The curriculum is aligned with the Australian Quality Training Framework and the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF). While exact unit details are determined by Hillshire Investment Pty Ltd, the course generally covers core competencies required by the Children's Education and Care industry. Graduates gain skills to lead teams, implement programs, and support children's holistic development. The course also addresses contemporary issues such as trauma-informed care and digital technologies in early childhood education. This qualification meets the national standards for educators working in long day care, preschool, and occasional care settings.
The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is delivered over 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks). The CRICOS register lists the duration as exactly 78 weeks. English is the language of instruction, and the course is a single qualification with no dual or foundation studies component. While the specific study mode (e.g., full-time on-campus) should be confirmed with Hillshire Investment Pty Ltd, typical diploma programs in Australia involve face-to-face classes, workshops, and online learning components. Given the work placement requirement, students should expect a combination of classroom-based theory and practical industry experience. This structure allows students to build professional networks while studying. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with student visa conditions. Surry Hills Campus is well-equipped to support vocational training, with modern classrooms and simulated early childhood environments.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$18,000, plus non-tuition fees of A$750, for an estimated total of A$18,750. This does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory for international students and typically costs around A$600–A$700 per year for single cover. Additionally, living expenses such as accommodation, food, and transport are not included. In Sydney, where the Surry Hills Campus is located, indicative weekly costs are approximately A$400–A$600 for a room, A$80–A$150 for groceries, and A$30–A$40 for public transport (Opal card). The Australian Government requires students to demonstrate access to at least A$24,505 per year for living costs as part of the visa application. Please note that course fees are set by institutions and subject to change. Always confirm the latest fee schedule directly with Hillshire Investment Pty Ltd through their website. HeadStart Academy displays fees sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026; they are indicative only.
To enrol in this diploma, international students typically need an IELTS overall band score of 5.5 to 6.0, or an equivalent English language test result. Some providers may accept alternative tests like TOEFL iBT or PTE Academic. Students are expected to have completed Australian Year 12 or an equivalent overseas qualification. Prior study or experience in a related field (e.g., Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care) can be beneficial but is not always mandatory. If you do not meet the academic requirements, foundation or pathway programs may be available – refer to Hillshire Investment Pty Ltd for options. Always check the specific entry requirements listed on the provider's website, as English language and academic prerequisites can vary. Remember that meeting the course entry conditions does not guarantee a visa; you must also satisfy the genuine temporary entrant (GTE) requirement and other visa criteria.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 12 weeks, totalling approximately 280 hours (23.3 hours per week). This work-integrated learning typically takes the form of an industry placement in an early childhood setting, such as a long day care centre, preschool, or family day care service. During placement, students apply their theoretical knowledge under the supervision of qualified educators, gaining hands-on experience in planning activities, caring for children, and working with families. This practical component is essential for meeting the vocational competency standards of the CHC50121 qualification. It also enables students to build professional networks and improve their employment prospects after graduation. Placement arrangements are usually coordinated by the provider, but students may need to meet certain prerequisites (e.g., working with children check, immunisations). International students should note that unpaid placement hours do not count towards the 48-hours-per-fortnight work limitation for student visas; however, paid work (if any) during placement would count.
This course is delivered at the Surry Hills Campus in SURRY HILLS, NSW. Surry Hills is a vibrant inner-city suburb of Sydney, located just 2 kilometres south-east of the Sydney CBD. It is known for its creative culture, diverse food scene, and close proximity to major transport hubs like Central Station. The area is home to a large student population due to its many tertiary institutions, including the University of Technology Sydney and TAFE NSW. The campus is easily accessible by train (Central, Redfern), bus, and light rail. Living in Surry Hills offers convenience but comes with higher living costs; many students share rental apartments. With over 100 registered CRICOS providers in Sydney alone, the city offers a wealth of study options. However, this particular diploma is uniquely delivered at this campus by Hillshire Investment Pty Ltd, so it provides a distinct learning environment.
International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: evidence of enrolment (Confirmation of Enrolment from Hillshire Investment Pty Ltd), genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and travel, and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of the visa. Once granted, the visa allows you to work up to 48 hours per fortnight while your course is in session, and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays (subject to current government regulations). It is essential to maintain full-time enrolment and satisfactory course progress. The Department of Home Affairs may also require a health examination and biometrics. Note that the course includes a work placement; this is considered part of your study and does not attract additional work limits. If you plan to bring family members, they may need to apply for dependent visas. For personalised advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit homeaffairs.gov.au.
Surry Hills offers a dynamic urban lifestyle ideal for students who enjoy city living. With its trendy cafes, boutiques, and proximity to museums and galleries, it provides a rich cultural experience. However, the cost of living is high – expect to pay around A$500–A$700 per week for a one-bedroom apartment or A$350–A$500 for a room in a shared house. Groceries and dining out are also above the national average. Public transport is excellent, but many students choose to walk or cycle. The area is well-connected to early childhood education employers, with numerous childcare centres within walking distance. If you prefer a quieter, more affordable environment, consider regional NSW options. Ultimately, choose a location that balances your academic needs, budget, and lifestyle preferences. HeadStart Academy lists over 26,000 courses across all states and territories, so you can compare options.
Follow these 3 simple steps to apply for the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care at Hillshire Investment Pty Ltd:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy to compare courses, locations, and fees. Filter by course level, field, and city to find the best fit for you. 2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Visit Hillshire Investment Pty Ltd's website (listed on their CRICOS record) to check entry requirements, English test scores, and application deadlines. Prepare your academic transcripts, English test results, and any other required documents. 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** – Once accepted, you will receive a CoE. Use this to lodge your Student visa (Subclass 500) application with the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC, sufficient funds, and a genuine temporary entrant statement ready.
Ready to advance your career in early childhood education? Explore this course on HeadStart Academy and take the first step towards studying in Australia.
Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Hillshire Investment 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.