Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 117637B) is a Diploma delivered by Australian Educare College Pty Ltd over 1 year. This AQF Level 5 qualification is designed for international students seeking to work in early childhood education settings such as preschools, childcare centres, and family day care. Registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS), this course meets Australian quality standards and is eligible for Student visa (Subclass 500) holders. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource—data is sourced directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) and we have no referral fees. Always confirm details with the provider before applying.
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The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is a nationally recognised VET qualification (CHC50121) that prepares graduates to design and implement curriculum in early childhood settings. This course covers developmental learning, fostering inclusive environments, and managing services in line with Australian regulations. International students gain practical skills through theoretical study and are assessed via projects and placements—though this specific course does not include a mandatory work component (as per CRICOS data). The field of education (07 Education, 0701 Teacher Education, 070101 Teacher Education: Early Childhood) ensures graduates meet industry standards. Australia is home to over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and this course is one of the many diploma options available for those passionate about early childhood education.
This diploma focuses on the professional knowledge and skills required to work with children from birth to 5 years. Graduates learn to design and evaluate programs that support children's learning and development, build respectful relationships with families, and maintain safe, healthy environments. The Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) Level 5 ensures that students gain a broad theoretical and technical knowledge base, along with the ability to analyse and solve complex problems in early childhood settings. While specific units are set by the provider, typical areas include child development, curriculum planning, and legal and ethical frameworks. This course is ideal for those seeking roles as early childhood educators or centre directors.
The course is delivered over 1 year (52 weeks) as per the CRICOS register. Instruction is in English, and it is offered as a single qualification with no dual or foundation study component. Study modes may include full-time face-to-face classes at the provider's campus in Mascot, NSW. Always check with Australian Educare College for specific timetables and delivery methods.
Indicative fees sourced from the CRICOS register are: tuition A$22,000, non-tuition A$2,000, estimated total A$24,000. Please note that these fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the Student visa application charge. Living costs vary by city—for Sydney (including Mascot area), students should budget approximately A$500–$700 per week for accommodation, food, and transport, depending on lifestyle. OSHC is mandatory for international students and costs around A$600–$900 per year. Always confirm current fees directly with Australian Educare College as they are subject to change. For the latest fee schedule, visit the provider's website via the CRICOS register.
International students typically require an IELTS overall score of 5.5–6.0 (or equivalent) to meet English language proficiency. For a Diploma (AQF Level 5), applicants are generally expected to have completed an Australian Year 12 or equivalent qualification, or a Certificate III or IV in a related field. No foundation or pathway options are indicated for this course—contact Australian Educare College for specific academic prerequisites and recognition of prior learning (RPL) possibilities. All entry requirements are set by the provider and must be verified directly.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component as part of the CRICOS registration. However, students may seek voluntary or paid work outside study hours subject to Student visa work conditions. Note: work placements can be valuable for practical experience—check with the provider if optional placements are available.
The course is delivered at 263 King Street, Mascot, NSW 2020. Mascot is a suburb of Sydney, located just 6 km south of the city centre, known for its proximity to Sydney Airport and convenient public transport (trains and buses). Sydney is Australia's largest city, with over 200,000 international students and more than 600 CRICOS-registered providers. Living costs in Sydney are higher than other Australian cities; indicative weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment near Mascot is around $450–$600. Public transport to the campus is accessible via Mascot Station on the T4 Eastern Suburbs & Illawarra Line. HeadStart Academy's data shows that New South Wales hosts the highest number of international students in Australia, with a vibrant education sector.
International students enrolling in this CRICOS-registered course can apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key conditions include: maintaining enrolment in a CRICOS course, satisfactory course progress, and attendance requirements. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (check current Department of Home Affairs policies as conditions may change). You must also maintain valid Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. Be aware of the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement—you must demonstrate a genuine intention to stay temporarily in Australia for study. Financial capacity evidence (tuition, living costs, OSHC) is required at application. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice; consult a registered MARA agent for personalised guidance.
All CRICOS-registered courses come with protections under the Education Services for Overseas Students Act 2000 (ESOS). This includes the Tuition Protection Service (TPS) which safeguards your fees if your provider fails to deliver the course. You also have access to a complaints and appeals process. Australia's regulatory framework ensures international students receive quality education and consumer rights. You can verify your provider's registration at any time via the CRICOS register (cricos.teqsa.gov.au).
Sydney offers a dynamic multicultural environment, excellent public transport, and a strong job market for early childhood educators. However, the cost of living is among the highest in Australia. As a Diploma student, you'll need to budget carefully: rent near Mascot may be $450–$600 per week, groceries $100–$150, and transport $40–$50. The state of NSW has a high demand for qualified early childhood professionals, with many job opportunities after graduation. Consider your study mode—face-to-face attendance requires reliable transport. HeadStart Academy recommends researching the provider's facilities, student support services, and graduate outcomes. Use our platform to compare this course with other Diploma courses in NSW (e.g., /study/diploma/nsw) and explore the provider's page at /institutions/04027A/australian-educare-college-pty-ltd.
Ready to start your early childhood education journey? Apply directly to Australian Educare College Pty Ltd after reviewing the entry requirements. Use HeadStart Academy to compare other Diploma courses in NSW or explore the provider profile for more details.
Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Australian Educare 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.