Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 118585A) is a Diploma delivered by EQUALS International (Aust) Pty Ltd over 1 year 11 months (~98 weeks). This AQF Level 5 qualification, with VET national code CHC50125, prepares you for leadership roles in early childhood education and care settings. The course is delivered in Adelaide, South Australia, at two convenient campuses on Currie Street. EQUALS International (CRICOS 02804C) is a private provider registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS), ensuring you receive quality education under the ESOS Act protections. As an international student, you'll gain hands-on experience through a compulsory work component and develop the skills to design, implement, and evaluate educational programs for children from birth to 5 years. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses across Australia, this Diploma is a pathway to a rewarding career in early childhood education.
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Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS 118585A) is a Diploma-level course (AQF Level 5) in the field of Education (07) with a focus on Teacher Education: Early Childhood (070101). It is delivered by EQUALS International (Aust) Pty Ltd, a private CRICOS-registered provider (02804C). The course runs for 1 year 11 months (~98 weeks) and includes a mandatory work component of 11 weeks (440 hours). The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification with no dual or foundation studies attached. All CRICOS-registered courses meet Australian Government quality standards, and your rights as an international student are protected by the ESOS Act.
Graduates of this Diploma develop the knowledge and skills to work as early childhood educators in a range of settings, including long day care, preschool, and kindergarten. The curriculum typically covers child development, program planning, health and safety, inclusion, and team leadership. While specific syllabus details should be confirmed with EQUALS International, the field of Teacher Education: Early Childhood focuses on understanding children's learning and development from birth to school age. You'll learn to create stimulating environments, assess children's progress, and collaborate with families and communities. This level of study is designed for those seeking supervisory or management roles in early childhood education services.
The course duration is 1 year 11 months (~98 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. It is delivered full-time with English as the language of instruction. This is a single qualification — it does not lead to a dual award. Students can expect a combination of classroom-based learning and practical placement. The VET national code for this qualification is CHC50125. For exact study mode details (e.g., timetabling, online components), contact EQUALS International directly.
The indicative tuition fee for Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care at EQUALS International is A$23,300. Non-tuition fees are estimated at A$600, bringing the total indicative cost to A$23,900. This does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. Fees are set by EQUALS International and may change — always confirm current fees on their website (www.equals.edu.au). For a full budget, factor in weekly rent in Adelaide (approx. A$200–A$350), groceries (A$80–A$150), and public transport (A$30–A$50). Living costs vary; visit the Department of Home Affairs for the latest financial requirements.
International students typically need an English proficiency of IELTS 5.5 to 6.0 overall (or equivalent). Prior academic qualifications equivalent to Australian Year 12 are generally expected. Some providers may have additional prerequisites, such as a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care or relevant work experience. Foundation or pathway options may be available if you do not meet direct entry requirements — check with EQUALS International. Always confirm exact entry criteria with the provider before applying.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 11 weeks (440 hours total, at 40 hours per week). This is an industry placement in an early childhood education setting, such as a childcare centre or preschool. It provides hands-on experience under supervision, allowing you to apply theory to practice. Placements are arranged by EQUALS International to meet the requirements of the CHC50125 qualification. This work-integrated learning is essential for developing practical skills and may count towards your visa work rights if paid.
The course is delivered at two locations in Adelaide, South Australia: 54 Currie Street and 81 Currie Street. Adelaide is a vibrant capital city with a strong education sector, hosting numerous CRICOS-registered providers. The city has a student population of over 35,000 international students from around the world. Public transport is accessible via trams, buses, and trains, with both campuses well-connected. The cost of living in Adelaide is generally lower than in Sydney or Melbourne, with indicative weekly rents for shared accommodation around A$200–A$300 and student travel concessions available.
To study this course, you will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). As a visa holder, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. You must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, provide evidence of Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity. The Department of Home Affairs sets these requirements; for personalised advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA). HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice.
Adelaide offers a welcoming environment for international students with a lower cost of living compared to Australia's eastern capitals. The city has a strong early childhood education sector, with many registered providers and childcare services. When choosing a location, consider proximity to your campus, local amenities, and community support. Adelaide's pleasant climate, festivals, and accessible public transport make it an attractive study destination. However, weigh your personal preferences and career goals — research the job market for early childhood educators in South Australia after graduation.
Follow these three steps to apply for Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care at EQUALS International:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use the HeadStart Academy database to filter by course level (Diploma), field (Education), and city (Adelaide). Compare options and shortlist EQUALS International.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Meet the entry requirements (English test, academic transcripts) and submit your application through EQUALS International's website or admissions office. Pay attention to application deadlines and required supporting documents.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, you'll get a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs, including evidence of OSHC and financial capacity.
Begin your journey to studying Early Childhood Education in Adelaide. Start your application to EQUALS International today.
Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at EQUALS International (Aust) 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.