Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 117828F) is a Diploma delivered by Imperial Institute QLD Pty Ltd over 1 year. This qualification, nationally recognised under VET code CHC50121, equips students with the skills to lead and manage early childhood education services. As a CRICOS-registered provider (04359C), Imperial Institute QLD Pty Ltd meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment. Whether you're starting your career or advancing in early childhood education, this diploma offers practical training with a 14-week work component. Course delivery is available at two Queensland locations: Cairns City and Brisbane City. All data on this page is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), ensuring you get the most reliable information to plan your studies in Australia.
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The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS 117828F) is an AQF Level 5 qualification in the field of Teacher Education (07-0701-070100). It is designed for individuals who wish to become educational leaders in childcare settings, such as centre directors, educational coordinators, or early childhood teachers (subject to state licensing). The course is delivered by Imperial Institute QLD Pty Ltd, a private CRICOS-registered provider (04359C) with a strong focus on practical, industry-relevant training. International students benefit from a structured learning environment that combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience through a mandatory work component. This diploma does not lead to a dual qualification nor is it a foundation studies program. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, students are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring quality education and consumer rights.
The field of education at this diploma level covers advanced topics in early childhood development, curriculum design, family and community engagement, and leadership in children's services. Students explore pedagogical frameworks, regulatory requirements, and inclusive practices for children from birth to school age. While specific unit outlines are set by the provider, typical learning outcomes include planning and implementing educational programs, managing team performance, and ensuring health and safety compliance. Graduates emerge with the skills to work autonomously and mentor others in early childhood settings. The course is taught in English, and all instruction aligns with Australian national quality standards.
The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care has a duration of 1 year (52 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification with no dual award or foundation studies component. The course is delivered face-to-face at the provider's campuses in Cairns and Brisbane, offering students access to well-equipped learning environments. International students enrolled in this course can hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) and must maintain satisfactory course attendance and progress in line with visa conditions.
Tuition fees for this diploma are indicative at A$15,000 for the entire program, with non‑tuition fees of A$500, bringing the estimated total to A$15,500. Please note that these figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Always confirm current fees directly with Imperial Institute QLD Pty Ltd before applying. This total does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. For example, OSHC for a single student for 12 months typically costs between A$500 and A$700, while living expenses in Queensland cities can range from A$21,000 to A$27,000 per year. Budgeting accurate is essential for meeting student visa financial capacity requirements.
International applicants are generally expected to have completed Australian Year 12 or equivalent and demonstrate English proficiency, typically IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall (or equivalent such as TOEFL iBT or PTE). Prior study or experience in a related field may also be considered. For this diploma level, some providers may require completion of a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care or relevant industry experience. Imperial Institute QLD Pty Ltd will assess each application individually. If you do not meet direct entry requirements, ask the provider about pathway or foundation options. Remember, meeting entry requirements does not guarantee a visa – you must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion and other Department of Home Affairs conditions.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 14 weeks, totalling approximately 280 hours. The work-integrated learning is an industry placement where students apply classroom theory in real early childhood settings. This practical experience is a core part of the qualification, preparing graduates for roles such as centre manager or educational leader. Placements are arranged by Imperial Institute QLD Pty Ltd in partnership with approved childcare centres. While on placement, students are covered by the provider’s insurance policies. Work hours during placement count towards visa work limitations – international students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks.
The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is delivered at two campuses: Cairns Campus at 30 Minnie St, Cairns City QLD 4870, and Brisbane Campus at Level 3, 97 Creek St, Brisbane City QLD 4000. Both cities offer vibrant student communities and diverse study environments. Cairns, with its tropical climate and proximity to the Great Barrier Reef, has a lower cost of living – weekly rent for a shared apartment may range from A$180 to A$250. Brisbane, the state capital, offers more urban amenities, with rents around A$250–A$350 per week. Public transport is accessible from both campuses, making commuting easy. International students can explore part-time work opportunities in the early childhood sector to gain local experience.
International students enrolling in this CRICOS-registered course are eligible to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key visa requirements include: a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and meeting health and character criteria. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during course sessions and unlimited hours during recognised breaks. Dependants on a Student visa may also have work rights. OSHC is compulsory and must be arranged before visa grant. For detailed advice, always refer to the Department of Home Affairs website or consult a registered migration agent (MARA). HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Applying for a CRICOS-registered course is straightforward. Follow these three steps:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use the CRICOS register at cricos.teqsa.gov.au to verify that Imperial Institute QLD Pty Ltd (04359C) and its Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (117828F) are currently registered. Filter by course level, field, and city to confirm this course suits your goals.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Prepare your academic transcripts, English language test results (e.g., IELTS 5.5–6.0), and other required documents. Submit your application via Imperial Institute QLD Pty Ltd’s application portal or by contacting their admissions team. Check application deadlines and any specific entry requirements.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa** – Once your application is accepted, the provider will issue a CoE. Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Arrange OSHC, prepare your GTE statement, and ensure you meet financial capacity requirements. Visa processing times vary, so apply early.
Ready to start your early childhood education career? Visit the CRICOS register to verify course details, then apply directly to Imperial Institute QLD Pty Ltd. For visa guidance, consult a registered migration agent or the Department of Home Affairs.
Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Imperial Institute QLD 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.