Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 118630A) is a Diploma delivered by The Lions Institute Pty Ltd over 1 year. This CRICOS-registered qualification (AQF Level 5) equips international students with advanced skills to lead and manage early childhood education services. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering 26,000+ courses across Australia, The Lions Institute stands out for its practical focus and industry placements. This page provides a complete guide to fees, entry requirements, work components, and student visa obligations. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) and is indicative only. HeadStart Academy is a free, independent resource – no commission, no referral fees.
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The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 118630A) is a nationally recognised qualification delivered by The Lions Institute Pty Ltd (CRICOS provider code 03727C). This course sits at AQF Level 5 (Diploma) and falls under the field of Teacher Education: Early Childhood (070101). It prepares graduates to work as early childhood educators, room leaders, or centre directors. The program includes a mandatory work component of 15 weeks (20 hours per week, totaling around 300 hours) to provide real-world experience. The Veterinary National Code is CHC50125. This single qualification is delivered in English over a 52-week duration. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, international students are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring tuition protection and quality standards.
Students in this diploma program gain advanced knowledge in child development, curriculum design, inclusive practices, and leadership within early childhood settings. The field of Teacher Education: Early Childhood (070101) focuses on the theory and practice of educating children from birth to five years. Graduates learn to design and implement educational programs, foster safe and nurturing environments, and work collaboratively with families and communities. This level typically requires analysis, diagnosis, and application of specialised skills. While specific unit outlines are set by The Lions Institute, the CRICOS registration ensures the course meets Australian quality standards. For a detailed syllabus, contact the provider directly.
The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is a full-time course lasting 1 year (52 weeks) according to the CRICOS register. Instruction is exclusively in English, and it is a single qualification (not a dual or foundation program). Students should expect around 20 hours of contact per week, plus self-study. The work component of 15 weeks (300 hours) is integrated into the program. The Lions Institute delivers this face-to-face at its Burwood campus. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) must maintain full-time enrolment and satisfactory course progress. The ESOS Act protects students if the provider cannot deliver the course as registered.
The indicative tuition fee for this diploma is A$15,500, with non-tuition fees (such as enrolment, materials, and administration) totaling A$2,500. The estimated total is A$18,000. Please note: these fees are sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026) and are subject to change. Always confirm current fees directly with The Lions Institute before applying. Additional costs NOT included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge. For international students in Sydney, indicative living costs are approximately A$1,800–2,500 per month (including rent, groceries, and transport). OSHC for a single student is around A$600–700 per year. The Department of Home Affairs requires evidence of sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and OSHC.
International applicants typically need an English proficiency equivalent to IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall (no band below 5.0). Some providers may accept PTE or TOEFL. Prior qualifications expected for this diploma include completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent. The Lions Institute may also consider relevant work experience. Foundation or pathway options may be available – refer to the provider’s website for specific requirements. Meeting the minimum does not guarantee admission. Always verify with the institution and note that English language requirements can vary. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting the provider for the most accurate and up-to-date criteria.
This course includes a mandatory work-integrated learning component: 15 weeks of placement at 20 hours per week, totalling approximately 300 hours. This industry placement allows students to apply classroom knowledge in real early childhood settings, such as daycare centres or preschools. Under the supervision of qualified professionals, students gain hands-on experience in planning activities, managing behaviour, and supporting children’s development. The placement is an assessed part of the course. International students should note that work placements are considered part of study, not employment, and are not subject to the usual student work limitations (48 hours per fortnight). However, any paid work (outside placement) must comply with visa conditions.
The Lions Institute delivers this course at its campus located at 4 Railway Pde, Burwood, NSW. Burwood is a vibrant suburb in Sydney’s inner west, approximately 10 km from the Sydney CBD. It is well-served by public transport (train, bus) and offers a diverse community with many amenities. Sydney has over 120 CRICOS-registered providers offering thousands of courses. The city’s average weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment is around A$500–700; groceries and transport add another A$300–500 per week. Students choosing Burwood enjoy easy access to the city and a supportive student environment. The campus is in a commercial area with restaurants, shops, and libraries nearby.
International students enrolling in this diploma must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key conditions include maintaining full-time enrolment, satisfactory course progress, and valid Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). Work rights allow 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement must be satisfied – applicants need to demonstrate genuine intention to study and temporarily reside in Australia. Financial capacity evidence is required: sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and OSHC. The Department of Home Affairs provides a 12-month cost calculator. For personalised advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department. HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Studying early childhood education in Sydney, and specifically at Burwood, offers students exposure to a multicultural urban environment with abundant placement opportunities. Sydney is home to over 200 early childhood education providers and many daycare centres. Burwood’s central location makes commuting easy. International students should consider living costs: Sydney is one of Australia’s most expensive cities, but the student community is large and well-supported. The Lions Institute provides a focused learning environment with small class sizes. If you value practical training and city life, this combination could be ideal. However, always weigh personal preferences, budget, and long-term goals before deciding.
Follow these three steps to begin your study journey for the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care at The Lions Institute: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers (filter by course level, field, and city). Use the HeadStart Academy directory to shortlist institutions like The Lions Institute. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution. Meet the entry requirements (English test scores, academic transcripts) and submit your application before the deadline. Check the provider’s website for application forms and terms. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500). Use the CoE to lodge your visa application, then arrange OSHC and prepare for your stay in Australia.
Ready to apply? Start by searching for CRICOS-registered early childhood courses on HeadStart Academy, then contact The Lions Institute directly for the latest fees and intake dates.
Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at The Lions 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.