Graduate Diploma of Early Childhood (CRICOS course code 114689C) is a Graduate Diploma delivered by Holmes Institute Pty Ltd over 1 year. This qualification is designed for educators seeking to specialise in early childhood education, preparing graduates to lead learning programs for children from birth to school age. Holmes Institute is a private provider registered on CRICOS (02727M) and listed on the Australian Government's CRICOS register as at April 2026. With delivery locations in Brisbane and Surfers Paradise, Queensland, this course combines academic study with a substantial work component of 20 weeks of industry placement. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource — we are not a registered migration agent and do not charge referral fees. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register, which lists 1,556 providers offering 26,433 courses to international students.
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Graduate Diploma of Early Childhood (CRICOS course code 114689C) is a Graduate Diploma (AQF Level 8) delivered by Holmes Institute Pty Ltd (CRICOS 02727M). This course falls under the field of education 'Teacher Education: Early Childhood' (070101). It is a single qualification with no dual or foundation studies pathways. The course is taught in English and includes a mandatory work component: 20 weeks of placement at 24 hours per week, totalling approximately 480 hours. Holmes Institute is a private higher education provider with a strong focus on professional qualifications. As a CRICOS-registered provider, Holmes Institute complies with the ESOS Act, ensuring international students receive the same protections as domestic students.
The Graduate Diploma of Early Childhood focuses on advanced knowledge and skills in early childhood education and care. Students typically explore child development theories, curriculum design for young learners, family and community engagement, leadership in early childhood settings, and inclusive practices. Graduates are prepared to work as early childhood teachers, directors, or curriculum coordinators in preschools, childcare centres, and early learning centres. While the specific syllabus is set by Holmes Institute, the field of Teacher Education: Early Childhood (070101) at AQF Level 8 emphasises research-informed practice and professional leadership.
The course duration is 1 year (52 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. Instruction is in English. This is a single qualification (no dual award). The course is delivered full-time, likely in face-to-face or blended mode depending on the location. Students should confirm the exact study mode with Holmes Institute. The course is structured to include both classroom learning and a substantial work-integrated learning component.
Tuition fee: A$27,000 (indicative). Non-tuition fees: A$250 (indicative). Estimated total: A$27,250. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by Holmes Institute. They may change without notice. Additional costs not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) – approximately A$600–A$1,000 per year depending on provider and cover level; living expenses – approximately A$21,041 per year as per Department of Home Affairs requirements (higher for Melbourne/Sydney); visa application charge – currently A$710 (subject to change). Always confirm current fees directly with Holmes Institute via their website: www.holmesinstitute.edu.au. Tuition fees may also vary based on intake and study load.
Applicants typically need to demonstrate English language proficiency equivalent to IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall (with no band below 5.5 or 6.0 depending on the provider). A bachelor's degree or equivalent in any discipline is usually required for entry into a Graduate Diploma at AQF Level 8. Some providers may prefer a background in education or early childhood. Foundation or pathway programs are not listed for this course; however, applicants who do not meet the academic or English requirements should contact Holmes Institute for alternative options. Holmes Institute may also assess prior learning or work experience. These are general guidelines — entry requirements are set by the institution and may vary.
Yes, this course includes a structured work component: 20 weeks of placement at 24 hours per week, totalling approximately 480 hours. This is a significant part of the program, providing hands-on experience in early childhood education settings such as childcare centres, preschools, or early learning centres. Work-integrated learning (WIL) placements are designed to bridge theory and practice, allowing students to apply classroom knowledge under supervision. Placement arrangements are coordinated by Holmes Institute, and students must meet any placement requirements (e.g., working with children check, immunisations). International students should note that work component hours are part of the course and do not count towards student visa work limits (which apply to paid employment outside the course).
The course is delivered at two locations in Queensland: Levels 2 & 3, 126 Margaret Street, Brisbane QLD 4000; and Surfers Paradise QLD (Holmes Institute Pty Ltd campus). Brisbane, the state capital, is home to over 2.5 million residents and a vibrant student population of over 150,000. The city has excellent public transport including trains, buses, and ferries. Surfers Paradise is a major tourist and student hub on the Gold Coast, with a large number of international students. Living costs in Brisbane/Gold Coast are generally lower than Sydney or Melbourne: indicative weekly rent A$200–$350, groceries A$60–$100, public transport A$30–$50. Both campuses are well-connected by public transport. Students should confirm the exact campus for their enrolled location.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course full-time. The visa allows work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks (subject to visa conditions). You must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity for tuition, living costs, and travel. The Department of Home Affairs requires evidence of funds for living expenses: from October 2024, the requirement is A$21,041 per year for a single student, plus tuition and OSHC. After completing a Graduate Diploma, you may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) if you meet the requirements. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice — consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs for visa guidance.
Follow these three steps to apply for Graduate Diploma of Early Childhood at Holmes Institute: 1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers**: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level (Graduate Diploma), field (Education), and location (Queensland). Verify that Holmes Institute (CRICOS 02727M) and course CRICOS 114689C meet your needs. 2. **Apply directly to Holmes Institute**: Check entry requirements, prepare your academic transcripts and English test results (e.g., IELTS), and submit your application through Holmes Institute's admissions portal. Deadlines vary by intake. 3. **Receive your CoE and apply for a Student visa**: Once accepted, Holmes Institute will issue a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). Use the CoE to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds.
Queensland is a popular study destination with over 110 registered providers offering Graduate Diplomas (as per CRICOS register). Brisbane and the Gold Coast offer a subtropical climate, affordable living compared to Sydney/Melbourne, and strong job markets in education and care. Early childhood teachers are in demand across Australia, with the sector projected to grow. If you prefer city life with cultural amenities, Brisbane is ideal; if you want beachside living with a bustling tourism economy, Surfers Paradise is a great choice. Consider transport: Brisbane campus is in the CBD close to Central Station; Surfers Paradise campus is near tram stops. Living costs: Brisbane is slightly cheaper than Surfers Paradise for rent. Evaluate your personal preferences and career goals before applying.
All CRICOS-registered courses, including this one, are covered by the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act. This means you have legal rights to a refund or alternative placement if the provider fails to deliver the course. For more information, visit the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA) or TEQSA websites. HeadStart Academy is a free resource and does not charge any referral fees.
Ready to start your early childhood career? Use HeadStart Academy to explore more Graduate Diploma courses in Education, or apply directly to Holmes Institute via their website.
Graduate Diploma of Early Childhood is a CRICOS-registered programme at Holmes 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.