Looking for a Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care that opens doors to a rewarding career in Australia? This CRICOS-registered course (code 115127G) at The Performance College Pty Ltd is designed for international students seeking to gain professional skills in early childhood education and care. Delivered over 1 year (52 weeks) at the Melbourne campus, this qualification aligns with Australian Quality Framework (AQF) Level 5 and equips graduates with the knowledge to nurture and educate children from birth to age 5. With a strong focus on practical training including a 280-hour work component, students gain real-world experience in Australian early childhood settings. Whether you are starting your journey or advancing your career, this course provides a solid foundation for roles such as early childhood educator or centre director. All information is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) – your trusted guide to studying in Australia.
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Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 115127G) is a Diploma delivered by The Performance College Pty Ltd over 1 year (52 weeks). This qualification is classified under Field of Education 070101 – Teacher Education: Early Childhood and is equivalent to AQF Level 5. As a CRICOS-registered provider (CRICOS 04180C), The Performance College is approved to enrol international students, ensuring compliance with Australian education standards. The course is delivered in English and does not offer a dual qualification or foundation studies. The VET national code CHC50121 corresponds to this diploma, which is nationally recognised. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers and 26,000+ courses available in Australia, this program stands out for its practical focus and industry placement. Students benefit from the ESOS Act protections, which safeguard tuition fees and guarantee quality education. Melbourne, home to hundreds of CRICOS-registered providers, offers a vibrant multicultural environment for international students.
The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care focuses on preparing graduates to work with children aged 0–5 years in various early childhood settings. The curriculum covers child development, health and safety, promoting inclusive practices, designing learning programs, and fostering positive relationships with families and communities. Students learn to plan and implement play-based learning experiences, assess children's needs, and support their social, emotional, and cognitive growth. While specific unit outlines may vary by provider, typical areas of study include early years learning frameworks, legal and ethical responsibilities, cultural competence, and reflective practice. The course also emphasises teamwork, communication, and leadership skills essential for supervising staff and managing early childhood centres. Graduates emerge with the competence to create nurturing environments that align with the Australian Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF).
The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is a 1-year program, structured as 52 weeks of study according to the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English, and the course is a single qualification – no dual awards or foundation components are included. Students attend classes at the Melbourne campus located at Level 5, 398 Lonsdale St, Melbourne VIC 3000. The study mode is typically full-time on-campus, though students should confirm delivery arrangements directly with The Performance College. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, international students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with student visa conditions (Subclass 500). The duration allows for a concentrated learning experience, combining theoretical knowledge with practical placement.
Course fees for the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care at The Performance College are indicative and sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. The indicative tuition fee is A$18,000 for the full program. Non-tuition fees (such as enrolment, materials, or administrative charges) are estimated at A$1,250, bringing the estimated total to A$19,250. Please note that these amounts do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the student visa application charge. OSHC is mandatory for international students and costs approximately A$600–$800 per year for single cover. Living expenses in Melbourne are around A$20,000–$25,000 annually, covering rent, groceries, and transport. For example, weekly rent for a shared apartment ranges from A$200–$350, and a public transport myki pass costs about A$45 per week. Always confirm current fees with The Performance College before applying, as fees are subject to change.
International students applying for the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care should meet minimum English language proficiency and academic criteria. An IELTS score of 5.5–6.0 overall is typically required, though equivalent tests (TOEFL, PTE) may be accepted. Applicants are expected to have completed Year 12 (or equivalent) in their home country. Prior experience in early childhood education is beneficial but not mandatory. Some providers may offer pathway or foundation programs if you do not meet direct entry requirements – check with The Performance College for available options. As HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent, we recommend contacting the provider directly for exact entry conditions. All CRICOS-registered courses require genuine student status under the GTE criterion.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 7 weeks at 40 hours per week, totalling approximately 280 hours of industry placement. The work-integrated learning (WIL) is designed to give students practical experience in early childhood settings such as long day care centres, kindergartens, or preschools. Under the supervision of qualified educators, students apply classroom theory to real-world situations, developing skills in child supervision, activity planning, and parent communication. This placement is a valuable opportunity to build a professional network and enhance employability. The work component is integrated into the course schedule and may be spread across the year. International students on a Subclass 500 visa are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, so the placement hours are counted within these limits.
The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is delivered at The Performance College's Melbourne Campus: Level 5, 398 Lonsdale St, Melbourne VIC 3000. Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city and a major education hub with over 300 CRICOS-registered providers. The campus is located in the central business district (CBD), providing easy access to public transport including trams, trains, and buses. Living costs in Melbourne are moderate compared to Sydney, with average weekly rent for a student share house around A$250–$400. The city boasts a diverse student population of over 200,000 international students, offering a vibrant cultural scene. The proximity to early childhood centres in the metropolitan area facilitates the work placement component. Melbourne's acclaimed coffee culture and laneways make it an attractive study destination.
International students enrolling in this CRICOS-registered course must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500). The visa allows full-time study and part-time work: up to 48 hours per fortnight during academic terms and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. Visa holders must maintain enrolment in a CRICOS course and satisfactory attendance. Additionally, the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement ensures your intention to stay temporarily for study. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory for the duration of the visa. Financial capacity evidence is also required – you must demonstrate sufficient funds for tuition, living costs (at least A$24,505 per year from 2026), and travel. The ESOS Act protects your tuition fees if the provider closes. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs for personalised advice.
Melbourne consistently ranks among the world's most liveable cities, offering excellent education infrastructure, public transport, and a multicultural community. With over 300 CRICOS-registered providers, you have access to diverse course options beyond this diploma. The cost of living is higher than in regional cities but lower than in Sydney. Weekly expenses for a single student include rent (A$200–$400), groceries (A$60–$100), transport (A$45), and utilities (A$30–$50). The city's strong early childhood sector provides ample placement opportunities and job prospects after graduation. However, consider your personal preferences: Melbourne's weather is variable with cool winters. If you prefer a warmer climate, destinations like Brisbane or Perth might suit you better. Ultimately, choosing Melbourne means embracing a vibrant student lifestyle with world-class education.
## How to Apply for Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care at The Performance College Pty Ltd **Step 1: Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy to compare courses and providers. Filter by course level (Diploma), field (Education), and location (Melbourne) to find the right fit. Verify CRICOS registration via cricos.teqsa.gov.au. **Step 2: Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Visit The Performance College's website to review entry requirements, English test score expectations, and application deadlines. Submit your application with required documents (transcripts, English test results, passport) directly to the provider. **Step 3: Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)** – Once accepted, you'll receive a CoE. Use this to apply for a student visa through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you meet GTE, OSHC, and financial capacity requirements. For visa assistance, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit homeaffairs.gov.au.
Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at The Performance College 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.