Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 118567C) is a Diploma delivered by Gordon Institute of TAFE over 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks). This AQF Level 5 qualification prepares graduates for leadership roles in early childhood education settings, including preschools, daycare centres, and kindergartens. The course covers child development, curriculum design, family engagement, and regulatory compliance. As a CRICOS-registered provider, Gordon Institute of TAFE (00011G) is authorised to enrol international students under the ESOS Act, ensuring your rights are protected. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses across Australia, this Diploma is a popular pathway for those passionate about shaping young minds. Located in Geelong, Victoria, the program combines theoretical learning with practical placement in real early childhood environments.
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The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care falls under the field of Education (07) with a focus on Teacher Education for Early Childhood (070101). Students develop skills in designing and implementing educational programs for children from birth to five years old. Core areas include child psychology, health and safety, inclusive practices, and collaboration with families. Graduates are equipped to supervise staff, manage operations, and ensure compliance with National Quality Standards. This diploma aligns with the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF Level 5) and incorporates the VET national code CHC50125. The curriculum emphasises practical application through work-integrated learning, preparing students for real-world challenges. No dual qualification or foundation studies are attached to this CRICOS course.
The course runs for 1 year 6 months (78 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. Instruction is in English, and no foundation or pathway programs are bundled. Students attend classes at the Geelong campus of Gordon Institute of TAFE, with a mix of face-to-face learning and supervised workplace experience. The program is a single qualification (Diploma) with no concurrent enrolment in another CRICOS course. Full-time study is typically required to maintain student visa conditions. The progressive nature of the diploma allows students to build on introductory concepts before moving to advanced units. Break periods align with the academic calendar, and the total duration includes scheduled holidays.
Tuition fees for this CRICOS course are indicative only and set by Gordon Institute of TAFE. The CRICOS register lists tuition at A$19,000, with non-tuition fees of A$800, bringing the estimated total to A$19,800. These figures exclude Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the student visa application charge. Actual costs may vary, so always confirm directly with the provider at gordontafe.edu.au. As a guide, international students in Geelong should budget approximately A$400–550 per week for rent, food, and transport. Fee protection under the ESOS Act ensures your money is safeguarded if the provider ceases operations.
Entry requirements for this Diploma level course generally include successful completion of an Australian Year 12 or equivalent international qualification. English language proficiency is required, with a recommended IELTS overall band of 5.5 to 6.0 (or equivalent). For applicants with prior study in early childhood or a related VET qualification, credit transfer may be available. Gordon Institute of TAFE may also offer foundation or pathway programs for students who do not meet direct entry criteria — contact the provider for details. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee enrolment; you must also satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion for your student visa. All entry conditions are subject to institutional discretion and change.
This Diploma includes a mandatory work component of 8 weeks, totalling approximately 296 hours of supervised placement. This work-integrated learning (WIL) allows students to apply theoretical knowledge in real early childhood settings such as childcare centres or kindergartens. Tasks may include planning activities, observing children's development, and assisting with daily routines under the guidance of qualified educators. The placement is a critical part of the qualification and must be completed to graduate. It also provides valuable Australian work experience, enhancing employability. Please note that work hours during placement count towards your total study load and are subject to the same visa work limits as other course activities.
This course is delivered at Gordon Institute of TAFe's main campus in Geelong, Victoria. Geelong is Victoria's second-largest city, with a strong student community and a growing international student population. The campus is accessible via public transport from the CBD and surrounding suburbs. Living costs in Geelong are generally lower than in Melbourne, with average weekly rent for a shared apartment around A$200–300. The city offers a balanced lifestyle with coastal attractions and a thriving local economy. Geelong has multiple CRICOS-registered providers, but this course is exclusive to Gordon Institute of TAFE. The campus features modern facilities including simulated early childhood learning spaces.
International students enrolling in this CRICOS-registered course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key conditions include maintaining full-time enrolment, attending at least 80% of timetabled hours, and achieving satisfactory course progress. Work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. You must also hold Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. Financial capacity requirements include sufficient funds for tuition, living costs (currently A$21,041 per year for a single student), and travel. The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement assesses your intention to stay temporarily. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent – consult a MARA agent or homeaffairs.gov.au for personalised advice.
Geelong offers a unique study experience compared to larger cities like Melbourne or Sydney. With a population of around 270,000, it provides a supportive environment for international students. Public transport connects the campus to the city centre and surrounding suburbs. The cost of living is moderate: indicative weekly rent for a shared apartment is A$200–300, groceries around A$60–80, and a monthly transport pass about A$100. Geelong has a strong early childhood education sector, with many childcare centres offering placement opportunities. However, job opportunities for students are more limited than in capital cities. Consider your personal preferences for city size, climate, and community when choosing a study destination.
Follow these three steps to enrol in Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care at Gordon Institute of TAFE:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field, and location. Confirm Gordon Institute of TAFE (00011G) offers the exact course (CRICOS 118567C).
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Meet entry requirements including English test scores. Submit required documents (academic transcripts, passport, proof of English) by the deadline. Gordon Institute of TAFE may require an interview or additional assessments.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)** – Once accepted, the provider issues a CoE. Use this to apply for your visa online via the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds. Processing times vary, so apply early.
Ready to start your journey? Explore this course and apply through Gordon Institute of TAFE's official website.
Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Gordon Institute of TAFE. 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.