Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 118647C) is a Diploma delivered by Shafston International Pty Ltd over 1 year 1 month (~56 weeks). This qualification prepares graduates to work as early childhood educators in a range of settings, including childcare centres, kindergartens and preschools. As an AQF Level 5 qualification, it builds on foundational knowledge and develops advanced skills in curriculum design, child development, and leadership within early childhood services. Shafston International Pty Ltd is a private CRICOS-registered provider (CRICOS 03917H) with campuses in Kangaroo Point and Southport, Queensland. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses to international students, and all listed providers on HeadStart Academy are CRICOS-registered with the Australian Government. Data on this page is sourced directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026).
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This Diploma falls under the field of Education with a focus on Teacher Education – Early Childhood (Field of Education code 070101). Students typically learn about child development from birth to school age, designing and implementing play-based learning programs, fostering inclusive environments, and collaborating with families and communities. The course covers regulatory frameworks, health and safety standards, and ethical practices in early childhood settings. Graduates are prepared to take on supervisory roles and may progress to a Bachelor of Early Childhood Education. While exact syllabus details are set by the provider, this level of study emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical application through work-integrated learning.
The course duration is 1 year 1 month (~56 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (not a dual award) and is not classified as foundation studies. The VET national code is CHC50125. Students are expected to attend classes full-time to meet student visa requirements.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$20,000, with non-tuition fees of A$300, giving an estimated total of A$20,300. Please note that this does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. For the most current fees, always check directly with Shafston International Pty Ltd. All fees shown here are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. OSHC is a mandatory requirement for international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500).
Typical entry requirements for this Diploma level include an IELTS score of 5.5-6.0 overall, and completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent. Prior qualifications equivalent to AQF Level 4 or higher are usually expected. Some providers may offer pathways or foundation programs; refer to Shafston International Pty Ltd for specific requirements. Always confirm with the institution as entry criteria are set by them and may vary.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 28 weeks, with 10 hours per week, totalling approximately 280 hours. This work-integrated learning typically involves an industry placement in an early childhood education setting, such as a childcare centre or kindergarten. Students gain hands-on experience under supervision, applying classroom theory to real-world practice. This placement is an integral part of the qualification and satisfies the practical hours required for graduation.
Shafston International Pty Ltd delivers this course at three locations: 46 Thorn Street, Kangaroo Point QLD 4169 (Kangaroo Point, Brisbane); and two campuses at 72 Nerang Street, Southport QLD 4215 (Gold Coast). Southport is a major hub on the Gold Coast with good public transport connections and a large student population. Brisbane's Kangaroo Point is a riverside suburb close to the city centre. International students benefit from Queensland's vibrant lifestyle and relatively lower cost of living compared to Sydney or Melbourne.
International students enrolled in this course are eligible to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while the course is in session, and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks – check current conditions on the Department of Home Affairs website. All applicants must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity for tuition, living costs and travel. The Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act provides legal protections, including tuition fee refunds in certain circumstances. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; consult a MARA-registered agent or the Department of Home Affairs for personalised advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care at Shafston International Pty Ltd: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use the CRICOS register to verify that Shafston International Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03917H) is registered and that course code 118647C is current. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Submit your application to Shafston International Pty Ltd, meeting their entry requirements including English language proficiency (IELTS 5.5-6.0) and academic qualifications. Check application deadlines and any additional documentation. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once offered a place, the provider issues a CoE. Use this to lodge a student visa application with the Department of Home Affairs, including evidence of OSHC, financial capacity and genuine student status.
Queensland is home to over 50,000 international students and offers a warm climate, beautiful beaches and a lower cost of living compared to Sydney and Melbourne. Brisbane's average weekly rent for a share house is around A$200–$300, while Gold Coast is slightly higher. Both cities have reliable public transport. With numerous early childhood education providers and growing demand for qualified educators, Queensland is a strong choice for this field. Shafston International's campuses in Kangaroo Point and Southport are well-connected, making it easy to balance study, work and lifestyle.
Ready to start your journey? Research CRICOS-registered providers and apply today.
Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Shafston International 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.