Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 118599F) is a Diploma level qualification delivered by West Australian Institute of Further Studies Pty Ltd (WAIFS) over 1 year. This course is designed for those seeking to work in early childhood education settings such as preschools and childcare centers. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider CRICOS 03188C), it meets Australian standards for international students. The course includes a work component of 14 weeks, providing practical experience. With indicative tuition fees of A$9,950 and non-tuition fees of A$1,200, the estimated total cost is A$11,150. All fees are indicative and subject to change. The course is delivered at WAIFS's Perth campus in Western Australia, a city with a growing early childhood sector and a large international student community. HeadStart Academy is a free resource that helps you explore CRICOS-registered courses like this one. Data sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026).
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Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 118599F) is a Diploma (AQF Level 5) delivered by West Australian Institute of Further Studies Pty Ltd (WAIFS) over 1 year. This course is in the field of Teacher Education: Early Childhood (field code 070101). Graduates typically learn to design and implement curricula for children from birth to five years, understand child development, promote inclusive practices, and manage early childhood services. The course aligns with the national VET standard CHC50125. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets the requirements for international student enrolment. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses. All institutions listed on HeadStart Academy are CRICOS-registered, ensuring quality and ESOS Act protections. This course is ideal for those seeking to advance their career in early childhood education, with pathways to further study in education or related fields.
This Diploma covers key areas in early childhood education, including child development, play-based learning, curriculum design, family engagement, and legislative frameworks. Students gain skills in planning and evaluating educational programs, managing teams, and ensuring safe, inclusive environments. The course emphasizes practical application through a work component. While specific syllabi vary by provider, graduates are prepared for roles such as early childhood educator, team leader, or centre coordinator. The field of Teacher Education: Early Childhood is part of the broader Education field, reflecting Australia's focus on high-quality early learning. Studying in Perth, WA, offers access to a diverse range of childcare centres and preschools for practical placements. The course language is English, and students are expected to meet the English requirement of IELTS 5.5-6.0 overall or equivalent.
The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is delivered over 1 year (52 weeks) according to the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification course (no dual or foundation studies). Students attend classes at the Perth campus. Study mode is typically full-time, as required for student visa holders. For part-time options, students should check with WAIFS. The course includes a work component of 14 weeks, which is an integral part of the curriculum. International students must maintain enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course to comply with their Student visa conditions.
Indicative fees for Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care at West Australian Institute of Further Studies Pty Ltd are as follows: tuition A$9,950, non-tuition fees A$1,200, estimated total A$11,150. These fees are set by the provider and sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. They are subject to change – always confirm directly with WAIFS at http://www.waifs.wa.edu.au. OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover), living costs, and the visa application charge are not included. International students should budget for these additional expenses. For living costs in Perth, indicative weekly expenses range from A$250–A$350 for rent (shared), A$80–A$120 for groceries, and A$30–A$50 for public transport. The Department of Home Affairs requires evidence of financial capacity to cover tuition, travel, and living costs for the first 12 months.
Entry requirements for Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care include an English language proficiency equivalent to IELTS 5.5-6.0 overall (or accepted alternative test). Typically, applicants should have completed an Australian Certificate III or equivalent, or have relevant work experience. For international students, prior qualifications must be assessed for equivalency. Foundation or pathway options may be available – contact WAIFS for details. Meeting English requirements is essential for visa eligibility. For detailed admission criteria, refer to the provider's website. HeadStart Academy provides general guidance only; applicants should verify requirements directly.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 14 weeks, 20 hours per week, totaling approximately 280 hours. This work-integrated learning involves industry placement in early childhood settings such as childcare centres, preschools, or kindergartens. Students apply theoretical knowledge in real-world environments, gaining hands-on experience under supervision. The placement is designed to develop practical skills in program planning, child supervision, and teamwork. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) are permitted to work 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, but work placements are part of the course requirements. Ensure compliance with visa conditions.
This course is delivered at Level 1, 160 Central Arcade, 811 Hay Street, Perth WA 6000, in the heart of Perth's central business district. Perth is the capital city of Western Australia, known for its sunny climate, vibrant cultural scene, and strong education sector. The city has over 100 CRICOS-registered providers offering diverse courses. The campus is accessible via public transport, including train and bus services. Perth's international student population is around 50,000, creating a multicultural learning environment. Studying in Perth offers opportunities to network with industry professionals and explore employment options in the growing early childhood sector.
International students enrolling in this course typically apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to study full-time in a CRICOS-registered course. You must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, prove financial capacity, and maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). Work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled holidays. Visa conditions apply – ensure compliance. For visa application, you need a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from WAIFS. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs for advice. ESOS Act protections apply to all CRICOS-registered courses, ensuring quality and student rights.
Perth offers a balanced lifestyle with a lower cost of living compared to Sydney or Melbourne. Rent for a share house averages A$250–A$350 per week, and public transport is efficient. The early childhood education sector is growing, with demand for qualified educators. The city has a warm climate and beautiful beaches, plus a supportive international student community. However, Perth is geographically isolated, so consider travel costs back home. Western Australia has over 200 CRICOS-registered providers, and studying in Perth means access to quality institutions like WAIFS. For students interested in education, Perth provides ample placement opportunities. Weigh these factors when choosing your study destination.
Follow these three steps to apply for Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care at West Australian Institute of Further Studies Pty Ltd:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and city. Ensure the provider is CRICOS-registered (WAIFS CRICOS 03188C) and the course is on the register.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit WAIFS's website (http://www.waifs.wa.edu.au) to review entry requirements, English language test scores, and application deadlines. Submit your application with required documents.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, you'll receive a CoE. Use it to apply for your visa online. Ensure you have OSHC, financial evidence, and meet GTE requirements. For visa advice, consult a registered migration agent.
View the full West Australian Institute of Further Studies Pty Ltd profile →
Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at West Australian Institute of Further Studies 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.