Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 118570H) is a Diploma delivered by TAFE SA over 1 year. This program equips students with the skills and knowledge to work as early childhood educators, supporting the development and learning of children from birth to five years. TAFE SA is a government-owned provider (CRICOS 00092B) with a strong reputation for vocational education. The course is offered at Regency Park Campus in Adelaide, South Australia. As a CRICOS-registered course, international students can study this qualification under the Student Visa (Subclass 500). Upon completion, graduates may pursue careers in childcare centres, preschools, and other early childhood settings. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and this course is one of the many options for international students seeking quality education in early childhood education.
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The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS 118570H) is an AQF Level 5 qualification under the field of Teacher Education: Early Childhood (07-01-01). It provides a comprehensive foundation in child development, program planning, and regulatory frameworks. This course is designed for those who want to take on leadership roles in early childhood settings, such as centre director or educational leader. TAFE SA, as a government provider, ensures the curriculum aligns with national quality standards. The CRICOS register lists this course with a duration of 52 weeks, including a significant work component. All international students benefit from ESOS Act protections, ensuring quality assurance and tuition fee safeguards.
Students in this program learn about child development from birth to five years, inclusive practices, and designing engaging learning environments. The curriculum covers legal and ethical responsibilities, building relationships with families, and promoting children's health and well-being. At the Diploma level, graduates are prepared to supervise and mentor other educators, manage programs, and reflect on pedagogical practices. While specific units may vary, typical areas include supporting children's social and emotional development, fostering creativity, and working with diverse communities. This knowledge prepares graduates to work in long day care, family day care, and outside school hours care. The field of early childhood education is in high demand across Australia, with strong job prospects for qualified educators.
The course runs for 1 year (52 weeks) as registered on CRICOS. Instruction is in English, and it is a single qualification (no dual qualification). The study mode is likely full-time on campus, though TAFE SA may offer flexible delivery options. International students must maintain satisfactory attendance and academic progress to comply with visa conditions. The duration includes a work component of 40 weeks, totaling approximately 280 hours of industry placement. This hands-on experience is integral to the qualification, allowing students to apply theory in real early childhood settings.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$14,545 per year, with no additional non-tuition fees listed on the CRICOS register, giving an estimated total of A$14,545. However, this does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. In Adelaide, living costs for a single student are approximately A$21,041 per year (including rent, food, and transport). Always check TAFE SA's official website for the most current fees, as they are subject to change. HeadStart Academy provides these figures as a guide only, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026.
International students typically need an IELTS score of 5.5-6.0 overall (or equivalent), with no band below 5.0. Prior study at Certificate III level in a related field or equivalent is expected. Some students may need to complete a foundation or pathway program if they do not meet academic entry criteria. TAFE SA may also require a police check or working with children clearance due to the nature of the work. It is essential to check specific entry requirements on TAFE SA's website. Meeting English requirements does not guarantee admission; the provider assesses each application holistically under the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) framework.
This course has a mandatory work component of 40 weeks, totaling approximately 280 hours. This work-integrated learning takes the form of industry placement in registered early childhood education and care services. Students get practical experience planning and implementing programs, supervising children, and working with families. Placements are supervised by qualified educators and are designed to meet the requirements of the national quality framework. The hours are spread across the duration of the course, allowing students to apply classroom learning in real settings. This component is essential for meeting the licensing requirements for early childhood educators in Australia.
This course is delivered at TAFE SA's Regency Park Campus in REGENCY PARK, South Australia. Adelaide is the capital city of South Australia, known for its affordable cost of living and vibrant student community. With a population of over 1.3 million, Adelaide offers a more relaxed pace compared to Sydney or Melbourne. Public transport from the city to Regency Park is convenient via bus or train. South Australia has over 100 CRICOS-registered providers, offering diverse study options. International students benefit from South Australia's focus on quality education and strong support services.
International students studying this course require a Student Visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to study full-time in a CRICOS-registered course. You can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). You must maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement applies, meaning you must demonstrate a genuine intention to stay temporarily for study. Financial capacity evidence is also required—typically sufficient funds to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. For visa application details, consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent (MARA).
Follow these three steps to apply for the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care at TAFE SA: 1) Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to compare courses like this one. TAFE SA is listed under CRICOS 00092B. 2) Apply directly to TAFE SA: Check entry requirements, arrange English tests (if needed), and submit your application before the deadline. 3) Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student Visa (Subclass 500). Once you have your CoE, lodge your visa application online. Start this process early to allow time for processing.
Adelaide offers a high quality of life with lower living costs than other major cities. The student population is diverse, with many international students from Asia, Europe, and the Americas. Renting a room in a shared house costs about A$150–250 per week, while a one-bedroom apartment may be A$300–450. Public transport is affordable with student concessions. The city has strong job opportunities in early childhood education, with many childcare centres seeking qualified staff. However, consider that Adelaide experiences hot summers and mild winters. If you prefer a quieter, more affordable environment with a focus on study, Adelaide is an excellent choice.
Ready to start your journey? Visit TAFE SA's international website for application details and current fees.
Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at TAFE SA. 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.