Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 118186E) is a Diploma delivered by Greenwich College Pty Ltd over 1 year 1 month (~56 weeks). This AQF Level 5 qualification sits within the field of Teacher Education: Early Childhood (070101), preparing graduates for roles as early childhood educators, centre supervisors, or family day care coordinators. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 02672K), international students can enrol with confidence knowing the program meets Australian education standards and is protected under the ESOS Act. The indicative tuition fee is A$25,000, with additional non-tuition costs of A$1,250, bringing the estimated total to A$26,250. English language requirements typically range between IELTS 5.5 and 6.0 overall. Delivery locations include campuses in Western Australia, New South Wales, Queensland, and Victoria, offering flexibility across Australia. With over 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers and 26,433 courses available, HeadStart Academy helps you navigate your study options. This course is ideal for those passionate about working with children and seeking a nationally recognised qualification.
The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care focuses on the knowledge and skills required to work with children from birth to six years. Students explore child development, behaviour guidance, program planning, and inclusive practices. The course covers legal and ethical frameworks, health and safety standards, and effective communication with families and communities. Graduates are trained to design and implement curriculum that supports children's learning and well-being. While specific units vary by provider, the core competencies align with the CHC50121 VET national code. This diploma level builds on certificate qualifications and provides a pathway to higher education in early childhood teaching. Australia's early childhood sector is regulated by the Australian Children's Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA), ensuring quality standards. Students gain practical strategies for fostering positive environments and meeting the National Quality Standards.
This course is delivered over 56 weeks full-time (1 year 1 month on the CRICOS register). The language of instruction is English, and it is a single qualification (no dual award or foundation studies). Students attend classes in person at one of the six delivery locations. The duration includes scheduled teaching periods and breaks as per the provider's academic calendar. As a Diploma, it is designed for students who have typically completed Year 12 or equivalent. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with student visa (Subclass 500) conditions. The course does not include a mandatory work component, so study time is focused on classroom learning and assessment tasks.
The indicative tuition fee for Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is A$25,000. Non-tuition fees (enrolment, materials, etc.) are approximately A$1,250, giving an estimated total of A$26,250. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is mandatory for student visa holders, nor living costs (accommodation, food, transport) or the visa application charge. For example, living costs in Sydney can be around A$1,500–$2,000 per month; in Brisbane slightly less. Always confirm current fees directly with Greenwich College Pty Ltd at www.greenwichcollege.com.au. International students are protected by the ESOS Act, which requires providers to publish accurate fee information.
To enrol in this Diploma, applicants typically need to have completed Year 12 (or equivalent) and demonstrate English language proficiency. The English requirement guide from the CRICOS register is IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall (or equivalent like TOEFL or PTE). Some providers may also require a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care or relevant work experience. Greenwich College sets specific entry criteria—check their website for details. Foundation or pathway options are not included in this course, but the provider may offer preparation programs. International students must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for the student visa. Note that entry requirements are determined by the institution and may change. HeadStart Academy recommends contacting the provider directly for the most up-to-date information.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. According to the CRICOS register, there is no arranged work component. However, some providers may offer optional professional placements or industry engagement—check with Greenwich College. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Practical experience in early childhood settings can enhance learning and employability, but it is not a formal part of this course's structure.
Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is delivered at six locations across Australia: 13 Beechboro Rd, Bayswater WA 6053 (Perth region); Greenwich College (Kelly Street), Ultimo NSW; Greenwich College Pty Ltd (Nerang Street), Southport QLD (Gold Coast); Greenwich English College Pty Ltd (RTO Operations) at Pitt Street, Sydney NSW; Level 1 and 2, 72 Mary St, Surry Hills NSW 2010; Level 3 & 4, 119 Charlotte St, Brisbane City QLD 4000. These campuses are in urban centres with good public transport access. For example, Sydney has over 12 CRICOS-registered providers offering early childhood courses, while Brisbane has around 8. Typical weekly rent: Sydney $250–$400, Brisbane $200–$350. Choose a location that suits your lifestyle and budget. Each campus offers the same course content, so you can select the most convenient site.
International students need a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course full-time in Australia. After receiving a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Greenwich College, you can apply online via the Department of Home Affairs. Requirements include genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement, sufficient funds for tuition and living costs, OSHC, and English proficiency evidence. Student visa holders can work 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Course costs are not covered by the visa fee. Living expenses are estimated at A$21,041 per year (2024 rate) plus health cover. Always check current visa conditions on homeaffairs.gov.au. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent—consult a MARA agent for visa advice. ESOS Act protections apply to all CRICOS-registered courses.
Applying for Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care at Greenwich College Pty Ltd is straightforward. Follow these three steps: 1) Research CRICOS-registered providers — use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Diploma), field (Education), and city. Compare providers and confirm CRICOS registration (Greenwich College: 02672K). 2) Apply directly to your chosen institution — complete the application form on Greenwich College's website (www.greenwichcollege.com.au). Submit academic transcripts, English test scores (IELTS 5.5–6.0), and any other required documents. Check application deadlines and accept an offer if successful. 3) Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) — after accepting, the provider issues a CoE. Then lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Include OSHC, GTE statement, and financial evidence. Once granted, you can plan your travel to Australia.
This course is offered in multiple cities, each with unique benefits. Bayswater (WA) is a suburban area east of Perth, offering a quieter lifestyle and proximity to beautiful beaches. Perth has a lower cost of living compared to Sydney, with weekly rent around $200–$350. Sydney campuses (Ultimo, Surry Hills) are in the heart of the city, with access to world-class facilities but higher living costs (rent $250–$450/week). Brisbane and Southport (Gold Coast) offer a subtropical climate and vibrant student life; rent typically $200–$350/week. Consider public transport: Sydney's train network is extensive, Brisbane has ferries and buses. All locations have CRICOS-registered providers for early childhood education. Your choice should factor in climate, budget, and lifestyle preferences. HeadStart Academy's guides can help you compare destinations.
Start your early childhood education journey with Greenwich College. Use HeadStart Academy to compare providers and apply today.
Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Greenwich 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.