The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 118602E) is a diploma-level qualification (AQF Level 5) delivered by Berkeley Business Institute Pty Ltd over 1 year at its Sydney campuses. This course equips international students with the skills to design and implement early childhood programs, lead teams, and ensure quality outcomes for children. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and this course is one of many registered on the official CRICOS register as at April 2026. Whether you aim to become an early childhood educator or centre director, this diploma provides a pathway into the growing education sector in Australia. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets the standards required for international student enrolment, including the ESOS Act protections that safeguard your fees and study experience.
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This course falls under the field of education (07) specifically Teacher Education: Early Childhood (070101). At the diploma level (AQF Level 5), students typically learn to develop activity programs, manage daily operations, and support children's learning and development in accordance with national standards. Graduates gain practical skills in curriculum planning, child safety, and family engagement, preparing them for supervisory roles in early childhood settings. While specific units are set by the provider, the course covers core competencies such as fostering positive relationships, promoting inclusive practices, and complying with regulatory frameworks. This vocational qualification is nationally recognised under the VET system, with code CHC50125.
The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is delivered over 52 weeks (1 year) on the CRICOS register. Language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification with no dual or foundation studies component. Students attend classes full-time, meeting the requirements of a Student visa (Subclass 500). The course includes a supervised work component of 38 weeks at 7 hours per week (approximately 281 total hours), providing hands-on industry experience.
Course fees are indicative and sourced from the CRICOS register. Tuition fee: A$15,000. Non-tuition fees: A$1,450 (includes enrolment, materials, and administration). Estimated total: A$16,450. These fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. For current fees and any additional costs, always check the provider's website (www.berkeley.edu.au). Sydney living costs are approximately A$500–700 per week for rent, groceries, and transport, but this varies by lifestyle. ESOS Act protections apply, ensuring you receive the services you pay for.
English language proficiency: IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall (or equivalent). Prior qualifications: Completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent. Foundation or pathway options may be available for students who do not meet these requirements — refer to Berkeley Business Institute for details. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, the provider sets specific entry criteria. HeadStart Academy recommends contacting the provider directly to confirm requirements.
This course includes a mandatory work-integrated learning component: 38 weeks at 7 hours per week (total ~281 hours). This involves industry placement in an early childhood education setting, such as a childcare centre or preschool. The placement allows students to apply classroom theory in real working environments, gaining practical experience under supervision. This component is essential for meeting vocational competency standards and is a key feature of CRICOS-registered VET courses.
The course is delivered at three Sydney campuses: BBI@ Sydney (Level 5 70-72 Bathurst St, Sydney NSW 2000), BBI@Sydney (Level 3 70-72 Bathurst St, Sydney NSW 2000 — note: CRICOS shows QLD but location is Sydney), and Suite 1, Level 1, 338-340 Pitt St, Sydney NSW 2000. All campuses are in central Sydney, close to public transport (trains, buses, light rail). Sydney is home to over 200 CRICOS-registered providers offering thousands of courses. The city offers diverse student life, with a large international student population and a high cost of living (estimated weekly rent A$350–500 for shared accommodation).
International students need a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. Key conditions: maintain enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, hold Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, and demonstrate financial capacity. Student work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. After completing a diploma, you may be eligible for post-study work rights if you meet visa criteria. Always check the Department of Home Affairs website or consult a registered migration agent (MARA). HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care at Berkeley Business Institute Pty Ltd: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers — Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field (education), and city (Sydney). Compare providers and confirm the course is CRICOS-registered. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution — Visit Berkeley Business Institute's website (www.berkeley.edu.au) or contact their admissions team. Submit your academic transcripts, English test results (IELTS 5.5–6.0), and any other required documents. Check application deadlines. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) — Once accepted, the provider will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application via the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds.
Sydney is Australia's largest city with a vibrant international student community. It offers world-class education, diverse culture, and plenty of job opportunities in early childhood education. However, the cost of living is high — budget around A$500–700 per week for shared accommodation, food, and transport. The city has excellent public transport connecting all campuses. If you prefer a smaller city with lower costs, you might consider studying in other states. HeadStart Academy's state guides can help you compare.
Early childhood education is a rewarding field with strong demand for qualified educators in Australia. As an international student, you should consider: your passion for working with children, the requirement for supervised work placements, and potential career pathways (e.g., diploma to bachelor's degree). The course leads to roles such as early childhood educator, room leader, or centre director. Ensure you meet English and academic requirements. The Australian Children's Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA) sets national standards for this sector.
Ready to apply? Start by researching CRICOS-registered providers on HeadStart Academy, then contact Berkeley Business Institute for the latest fees and intake dates.
Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Berkeley Business Institute 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.