Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 118592B) is a Diploma delivered by TAFE Queensland over 51 weeks (~12 months). This qualification is designed for those seeking to work in early childhood education settings, such as preschools, long day care centres, and family day care. As a CRICOS-registered course (03020E), international students can study this program across multiple Queensland locations. The course combines theoretical knowledge with practical work placement, ensuring graduates are job-ready. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and TAFE Queensland is a government-owned institution trusted for quality vocational education. At HeadStart Academy, we help you navigate your study options – all data is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) to ensure accuracy.
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Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 118592B) is a Diploma (AQF Level 5) delivered by TAFE Queensland (CRICOS 03020E) over 51 weeks (~12 months). The field of education is Teacher Education: Early Childhood (070101). This level of study prepares students to plan, implement, and evaluate programs for children aged 0-5 years, and to supervise staff. The course includes a work component of 20 weeks at 15 hours per week (~300 total hours), providing hands-on experience in a regulated early childhood setting. Language of instruction is English. It is a single qualification (no dual award) and does not include foundation studies.
This Diploma focuses on advanced skills in early childhood education, including designing and evaluating curriculum, managing teams, and fostering inclusive environments. Students learn about child development, health and safety, family partnerships, and regulatory compliance. While specific units are determined by TAFE Queensland, graduates typically gain leadership capabilities to work as early childhood educators or centre directors. The field of Education (07) covers teacher education across all age groups, and at AQF Level 5, you develop broad theoretical and technical knowledge with some autonomy in your work.
The course runs for 51 weeks (~12 months) as per the CRICOS register. All instruction is in English. This is a single qualification – no combined or dual diploma programs. No foundation studies are included. Study mode is typically full-time, on-campus, with the work placement integrated into the schedule.
Indicative tuition fee: A$11,600. Non-tuition fees: A$0. Estimated total: A$11,600. Please note: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and visa application charges are NOT included. Always check TAFE Queensland's website (www.tafeqld.edu.au) for current fees. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change by the provider.
International students typically need an IELTS overall score of 5.5 to 6.0 (or equivalent). Prior qualifications: completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent, and preferably a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (or relevant experience). Some providers may also require a Working with Children Check. For foundation or pathway options, refer to TAFE Queensland directly. English language requirements may vary – always confirm with the institution.
Yes, the course includes a mandatory work component: 20 weeks, 15 hours per week (~300 total hours). This is a work-integrated learning placement in an early childhood education setting. It allows you to apply classroom knowledge in a real environment, supervised by qualified educators. Placements are typically arranged by TAFE Queensland at approved centres near your campus.
This course is delivered at six TAFE Queensland campuses across the state: Ipswich (Bundamba), Mooloolaba (Mountain Creek), Robina (Robina), South Bank (South Brisbane), Southport (Southport), and Springfield (Springfield Central). All are in Queensland, with South Bank in Brisbane's cultural precinct, and Southport on the Gold Coast. Each campus is accessible by public transport. For example, South Bank is a 10-minute walk from South Brisbane station. Living costs vary: in Brisbane, indicative weekly rent is $200–$400, groceries $80–$150, transport $40–$60. Gold Coast costs are slightly higher. Always budget for OSHC and personal expenses.
This course qualifies for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key conditions: you must maintain enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, attend classes, and make satisfactory course progress. Work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled holidays (subject to visa conditions). You must also have genuine temporary entrant (GTE) status, maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for your stay, and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs (A$21,041/year as of 2026), and dependents (if applicable). HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent – for visa advice, consult a MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs.
Follow these three steps to study Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care at TAFE Queensland: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers – use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field, and city. Ensure TAFE Queensland (CRICOS 03020E) is listed. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution – check entry requirements (including English test scores and academic transcripts), and submit your application before deadlines. TAFE Queensland may have multiple intakes per year. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – once accepted, you'll get a CoE. Use it to apply for your visa, ensuring you meet GTE, OSHC, and financial capacity requirements.
Queensland is a popular destination for international students, with over 150 CRICOS-registered providers offering thousands of courses. The state has a warm climate, beautiful beaches, and vibrant cities like Brisbane and the Gold Coast. Living costs are generally lower than Sydney or Melbourne. However, consider that early childhood education roles may have varying demand across regions. TAFE Queensland has strong industry links, and graduates may find opportunities in childcare centres, kindergartens, and family day care. Think about your career goals, preferred lifestyle, and budget before choosing a location.
Ready to start your early childhood education journey? Explore TAFE Queensland's Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS 118592B) today. Use HeadStart Academy to compare courses and providers – all free, no referral fees.
Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at TAFE Queensland. 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.