Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 118573E) is a Diploma delivered by Technical and Further Education Commission over 49 weeks (~11 months). This qualification is designed for those who want to work as early childhood educators, leading teams and designing curricula in childcare centres, kindergartens, and preschools. As an international student, studying this course in Australia gives you access to high-quality training, real-world placement, and a pathway to an in-demand profession. HeadStart Academy provides this information from the official CRICOS register so you can make an informed choice about your study abroad.
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This Diploma falls under Field of Education 07 - Education, specifically 0701 - Teacher Education: Early Childhood. It focuses on the knowledge and skills needed to plan, implement, and evaluate programs for children aged birth to 5 years. Common topics include child development, cultural competence, legal and ethical frameworks, and leadership in early childhood settings. Graduates learn to foster inclusive learning environments, support children's wellbeing, and work collaboratively with families and communities. The course combines theoretical study with practical placement, ensuring you gain hands-on experience under professional supervision.
The Diploma is delivered over 49 weeks (~11 months) of full-time study, as recorded on the CRICOS register (course code 118573E). The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (no dual qualification or foundation studies). While the CRICOS register indicates 49 weeks, some providers may offer accelerated or part-time options – confirm directly with Technical and Further Education Commission.
Tuition fee for this course is A$16,510 (indicative). Non-tuition fees are listed as A$0. The estimated total is A$16,510. Please note: this does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. Always check the provider's website for current fees, as they are subject to change. HeadStart Academy sources fee data from the CRICOS register as at April 2026.
International students typically need an IELTS score of 5.5 to 6.0 overall (or equivalent). You should have completed a qualification equivalent to Australian Year 12. Some prior study or experience in early childhood education may be beneficial. Foundation or pathway programs (e.g., a Certificate III) are often offered by TAFE NSW – refer to the provider's website for specific entry requirements and bridging options.
This course includes a mandatory work component: 8 weeks of industry placement (approximately 280 total hours, though exact weekly hours are not specified by CRICOS). This work-integrated learning allows you to apply theory in a real early childhood setting, such as a childcare centre, under the guidance of qualified educators. It is an essential part of meeting the Australian Children's Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA) requirements for this qualification.
This course is delivered at multiple TAFE NSW campuses: Armidale (Beardy Street), Bankstown, Bathurst, Campbelltown, Coffs Harbour (Hogbin Drive), and Glendale (Cardiff). These locations span NSW from regional centres (Armidale, Bathurst, Coffs Harbour) to metropolitan suburbs (Bankstown, Campbelltown, Glendale). Each campus offers a supportive learning environment with access to student services. For example, Bankstown is in South Western Sydney with a large student population and good public transport links.
To study this course, international students need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to live and study in Australia for the duration of your course. Work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). You must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent – consult the Department of Home Affairs or a MARA agent for visa advice.
New South Wales is home to over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses. With world-class cities like Sydney (major international student hub) and regional centres like Newcastle and Wollongong (over 20,000 and 10,000 students respectively), NSW offers diverse study experiences. Living costs vary: Sydney rents average A$700/week; regional areas are cheaper (A$400–500/week). Public transport, healthcare, and cultural opportunities are excellent. For diploma-level education courses, NSW provides strong employment pathways as demand for qualified early childhood educators continues to grow.
Follow these three steps to apply:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy's directory to filter by course level (Diploma), field (Education), and location (NSW). Verify CRICOS 00591E for TAFE NSW.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Check entry requirements, English test scores (IELTS 5.5–6.0), and application deadlines on the TAFE NSW international website. Submit your academic documents and any required evidence.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)** – Once accepted, TAFE NSW will issue a CoE. You can then lodge a visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Remember to arrange OSHC and prove financial capacity.
Ready to start your journey in early childhood education? Visit the TAFE NSW international website to apply or explore more courses on HeadStart Academy.
View the full Technical and Further Education Commission profile →
Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Technical and Further Education Commission. 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.