Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 118596J) is a Diploma delivered by Australian Learning Group Pty Ltd over 1 year. This qualification sits at AQF Level 5 within the field of Teacher Education: Early Childhood (070101). Australian Learning Group is a private CRICOS-registered provider (CRICOS 03071E) offering this course across multiple campuses in Brisbane, Melbourne, Sydney, and Adelaide. International students considering a career in early childhood education should note that this course includes a mandatory work component of 280 hours, providing practical experience in Australian childcare settings. All courses listed on HeadStart Academy come from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), ensuring you are viewing current and approved study options.
The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care prepares graduates to design and implement early learning programs for children aged 0–5 years. Students develop skills in child development, curriculum planning, health and safety, and family engagement. While specific subjects vary by provider, graduates typically learn to lead teams in children's services, manage legal and ethical compliance, and foster inclusive learning environments. This qualification is recognized under the national VET framework (CHC50125) and is designed to meet the requirements for educator roles under Australia's National Quality Framework. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, this diploma is one of many pathways into the growing early childhood sector.
The course duration is 52 weeks (1 year) as recorded on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification with no dual or foundation study options. The program is delivered face-to-face at Australian Learning Group campuses, with a strong focus on practical skills. The work component (14 weeks, 20 hours per week) is integrated into the study schedule, giving students real-world experience. International students must maintain full-time enrollment to comply with student visa conditions.
Tuition fees for this diploma are A$10,960 (indicative). Non-tuition fees total A$595, bringing the estimated total to A$11,555. Please note that these figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are set by Australian Learning Group Pty Ltd. Fees are subject to change without notice. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the student visa application charge. For current fees, always check the provider's website at alg.edu.au.
International applicants typically require an IELTS score of 5.5 to 6.0 overall (or equivalent). Prior qualifications should meet the Australian Year 12 or equivalent level. Some providers may require completion of a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care or relevant work experience. Foundation or pathway options may be available — refer to Australian Learning Group for details. All entry requirements are set by the provider and are subject to change. HeadStart Academy does not guarantee admission.
This course includes a mandatory work-integrated learning component of 14 weeks (280 hours total), requiring 20 hours per week. This placement in an approved early childhood education setting allows students to apply classroom learning in a real Australian childcare environment. Placements are typically arranged by the provider and may be in long day care centers, preschools, or occasional care services. The experience is essential for meeting industry competencies and is a feature of many VET courses in Australia. International students must ensure their visa allows for this practical component.
Australian Learning Group delivers this course at multiple campuses: 243 Edward St, Brisbane City QLD 4000 (Brisbane); Level 1, 601 Bourke St, Melbourne VIC (Melbourne); Level 6, 601 Bourke St, Melbourne VIC 3000 (Melbourne); Level 7, 601 Bourke St, Melbourne (Melbourne); Level 7, Thomas St, Sydney 2000 (Haymarket, NSW); and Suite 1 Level 3, 127 Rundle Mall, Adelaide SA (Adelaide). Each city offers a vibrant student community with access to public transport. For example, the Melbourne campuses are near Southern Cross Station, while Adelaide's Rundle Mall location is in the city center. Living costs vary: in Brisbane, indicative weekly rent is around A$250–300; in Sydney, A$350–450; in Melbourne, A$300–400; and in Adelaide, A$200–300. These are estimates only.
International students enrolled in this course typically need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key conditions include maintaining full-time enrollment, holding valid OSHC, and meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement. Student work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. You must also demonstrate financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC. The ESOS Act ensures consumer protections for all CRICOS-registered courses. For detailed visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs.
Early childhood education is a growing field in Australia, with demand for qualified educators across all states. When choosing a course, consider location: each city has different living costs and student populations. Brisbane has over 100 CRICOS providers, Melbourne over 200, Sydney over 300, and Adelaide over 80. Public transport access to campuses is generally good. Also, think about work opportunities — the 280-hour placement can lead to employment. Remember that only CRICOS-registered providers can enroll international students, and all listed institutions here are CRICOS-registered. This diploma leads to roles such as early childhood educator or centre director.
To apply for Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care at Australian Learning Group Pty Ltd, follow these three steps: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Filter by course level, field, and city to find suitable options. HeadStart Academy makes this easy with our search tools. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check entry requirements (English test scores, prior qualifications) and application deadlines on the provider's website. Submit all required documents. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, you will receive a CoE. Use this to apply for your visa, ensuring you meet OSHC, GTE, and financial capacity requirements.
Ready to start your early childhood education journey? Browse more courses in this field or contact Australian Learning Group directly for application details.
Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Australian Learning Group 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.