Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 118375M) is a Diploma delivered by Thames International College Pty Ltd over 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks). This qualification is registered on the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF Level 5) and prepares you for leadership roles in early childhood education settings, including childcare centres and preschools. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 04079M), it meets Australian Government standards for international students. Whether you're planning to work as an early childhood educator or pursue further study in education, this diploma provides the practical skills and theoretical knowledge required. HeadStart Academy sources all course data directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), ensuring you receive accurate, up-to-date information to make informed decisions about studying in Australia.
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This field of education (07 - Education, 0701 - Teacher Education, 070101 - Teacher Education: Early Childhood) focuses on the development and education of children from birth to five years. The Diploma level (AQF Level 5) builds on foundational knowledge and introduces advanced concepts in child development, curriculum design, family engagement, and regulatory compliance. Graduates typically learn to design and implement play-based learning programs, assess children's needs, lead teams, and manage compliance with the National Quality Framework (NQF) and Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF). While specific subjects are set by Thames International College, common areas include childhood health and safety, cultural responsiveness, and ethical practice. This course includes a work component, giving you real-world experience in Australian early childhood settings.
The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is delivered over 1 year 6 months (78 weeks) as listed on the CRICOS register. Instruction is in English, and the course is a single qualification (not a dual or foundation program). Full-time study is typical for international student visa holders. The structured duration allows you to balance theoretical classes with practical placements. Studying in North Sydney puts you close to Australia's vibrant education hub, with access to modern learning facilities and support services.
Indicative tuition for this course is A$24,000, with non-tuition fees of A$2,000, making an estimated total of A$26,000. These figures are sourced directly from the CRICOS register and are subject to change. Always confirm current fees with Thames International College before applying. Additional costs not included in the indicative total include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (accommodation, food, transport), and the visa application charge. For 2026, OSHC for a single student is approximately A$500–700 per year. Living costs in Sydney are estimated at A$1,500–2,000 per month (rent, groceries, transport). HeadStart Academy recommends budgeting carefully and contacting the provider for a detailed fee schedule. ESOS Act protections ensure your tuition fees are safeguarded.
International students typically need an IELTS score of 5.5–6.0 overall (or equivalent) for this Diploma level. Prior qualifications expected include completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent, or a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care. Some providers may require a language, literacy, and numeracy assessment. Foundation or pathway options may be available if you do not meet direct entry requirements – contact Thames International College for details. Always check specific entry criteria with the provider, as requirements can vary. HeadStart Academy recommends reviewing English language requirements on the provider's website.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 14 weeks at 20 hours per week (approximately 280 total hours). This work-integrated learning involves a supervised industry placement in an early childhood education setting, such as a long day care centre, preschool, or kindergarten. You will apply classroom theory to real practice, developing skills in child supervision, program planning, and team collaboration. Placements are arranged by the provider at approved sites, often in North Sydney or nearby suburbs. This experience is invaluable for gaining Australian workplace references and understanding local regulatory standards.
The course is delivered at 118 Walker St, North Sydney, NSW 2060. North Sydney is a bustling commercial and residential area on the lower North Shore of Sydney, known for its excellent public transport links (train, bus, ferry) and proximity to the Sydney CBD. The suburb hosts many educational institutions and student-friendly amenities. Sydney is Australia's largest city with over 150 CRICOS-registered providers offering thousands of courses. Living costs in North Sydney are slightly above the Sydney average, with weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment around A$500–700. Public transport access is excellent, with North Sydney station a short walk from the campus.
To study this course you need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key conditions include: maintaining enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, meeting attendance and academic progress requirements, holding OSHC for the duration, and satisfying the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion. On a Student visa, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Your family members (if included) may have limited work rights. You must provide evidence of financial capacity (tuition, living costs, travel) when applying. OSHC must be arranged before visa grant. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent – for visa advice, consult a registered MARA agent or visit homeaffairs.gov.au. ESOS Act protections apply to all CRICOS-registered courses.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care at Thames International College Pty Ltd:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use the CRICOS register to verify Thames International College's registration (04079M) and course code 118375M. Compare tuition fees, location, and entry requirements. HeadStart Academy's free resource helps you filter by course level and field.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Submit your application to Thames International College with required documents (transcripts, English test results, passport copy). Check application deadlines – some courses have intake dates in February, July, or October. Pay the application fee if required.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, the provider will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application online via ImmiAccount. Prepare evidence of funds, OSHC, and GTE statement. Processing times vary – apply early.
North Sydney offers a balanced lifestyle for international students: close to the city yet quieter than the CBD. The area has many cafes, parks, and public libraries. Rent is higher than outer suburbs, but public transport passes (Opal card) save costs. If you prefer a more affordable option, consider sharing accommodation or looking at nearby suburbs like St Leonards or Crows Nest. With over 150 CRICOS-registered providers in Sydney, you're in a competitive but supportive education market. Early childhood education students benefit from the high demand for qualified educators in NSW. Think about your budget, lifestyle preferences, and career goals before choosing North Sydney.
Ready to apply? Research Thames International College and other CRICOS-registered providers on HeadStart Academy. Start your study journey in Australia today.
View the full Thames International College Pty Ltd profile →
Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Thames International 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.