Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 118616K) is a Diploma delivered by AUSTRALIAN ACADEMY OF TRADES PTY LTD over 1 year 2 months (~60 weeks). This AQF Level 5 qualification is designed for international students aiming to become skilled early childhood educators. The course prepares graduates to design and implement educational programs, lead teams, and support children's development in various settings. Delivered at the academy's Brisbane campus, in the heart of Queensland's capital, this course is registered on CRICOS, ensuring quality standards under the ESOS Act. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, making it a top destination for early childhood studies. HeadStart Academy provides this page as a free resource—no commission or referral fees—with data sourced directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026). Here you'll find indicative fees, entry requirements, and visa guidance to help you plan your study journey.
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Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 118616K) is a Diploma delivered by AUSTRALIAN ACADEMY OF TRADES PTY LTD over 1 year 2 months (~60 weeks). This qualification, classified under field of education 07 - Education (070101 Teacher Education: Early Childhood), equips students with the skills to work as early childhood educators in Australia. The course is CRICOS-registered (provider code 03486D), meaning it meets strict Australian Government standards for international students. As a private provider, AUSTRALIAN ACADEMY OF TRADES PTY LTD focuses on vocational training to prepare graduates for the workforce. The course corresponds to VET national code CHC50125.
Graduates of this diploma gain competencies in child development, educational program design, and leadership. Topics typically include fostering children's learning and development, building family and community partnerships, and supporting children with additional needs. Students learn to apply regulatory frameworks and ethical practices in Australian early childhood settings. The field of teacher education for early childhood covers birth to school-age children, preparing graduates to work in childcare centres, preschools, and family day care. This diploma is a key step towards becoming a qualified early childhood educator in Australia.
The course duration is 1 year 2 months (60 weeks) of full-time study, as registered on CRICOS. Instruction is delivered in English. This is a single qualification (no dual qualification) and does not include a foundation studies component. The program is taught face-to-face at the Brisbane campus, with no online component specified.
Indicative fees for Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care at AUSTRALIAN ACADEMY OF TRADES PTY LTD are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Tuition: A$12,000. Non-tuition fees: A$1,100. Estimated total: A$13,100. Additional costs not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (e.g., rent, groceries, transport), and visa application charges. For current fees, always check the provider's website. Living in Brisbane, students can expect weekly costs around A$200-300 for shared accommodation, plus A$150-200 for other essentials.
International students typically need an English language proficiency equivalent to IELTS 5.5-6.0 overall (or equivalent as accepted by the provider). Prior academic qualifications equivalent to an Australian Year 12 or Certificate IV are generally expected. Specific prerequisites may apply; refer to AUSTRALIAN ACADEMY OF TRADES PTY LTD for detailed entry criteria. Foundation or pathway options, if available, should be confirmed directly with the provider.
This course has no mandatory work component. However, student visa holders (Subclass 500) are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to current visa conditions. Work rights are designed to support students financially without compromising study.
The course is delivered at City Campus - Lvl3, 108 Margaret St, Brisbane, QLD 4000. Brisbane is Queensland's capital, with a vibrant international student community of over 20,000. The city has more than 200 CRICOS-registered providers, offering excellent access to education and support services. Public transport (trains, buses, ferries) connects the campus easily. Living costs in Brisbane are generally lower than Sydney or Melbourne, with indicative weekly rent for shared accommodation around A$200-300 and groceries about A$80-120.
To study this course, international students must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of stay, and evidence of sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and travel. The visa allows part-time work (48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during breaks). All CRICOS-registered courses like this one are subject to ESOS Act protections, ensuring your rights as a student. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; consult a MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs for visa advice.
Brisbane offers a sunny climate, affordable living, and a growing education sector. With over 20,000 international students and numerous CRICOS-registered providers, you'll find a supportive community. The city's early childhood sector is expanding, offering potential job opportunities. Consider your preference for urban vs. suburban life: the campus in Margaret St is close to the city centre, parks, and cultural venues. If you enjoy a relaxed lifestyle with access to beaches and nature, Brisbane is an excellent choice.
Follow these three steps to apply for Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care at AUSTRALIAN ACADEMY OF TRADES PTY LTD: 1. Research: Use HeadStart Academy to compare CRICOS-registered providers offering this qualification. Filter by course level, field, and city to find your best match. 2. Apply: Submit your application directly to the institution, meeting entry requirements including English test scores and academic transcripts. Check application deadlines on the provider's website. 3. Receive CoE and Apply for Visa: Once accepted, you will receive a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). Use this to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs.
Ready to begin your early childhood education journey? Use HeadStart Academy to find more CRICOS-registered courses in Brisbane and across Australia.
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Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at AUSTRALIAN ACADEMY OF TRADES 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.