Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 118648B) is a Diploma (AQF Level 5) delivered by Signature Training Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03938C) over 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks). This program equips international students with the skills to design and implement curriculum for children from birth to school age. Graduates can pursue roles as early childhood educators, centre directors, or family day care coordinators in Australia's growing education sector. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards, ensuring quality education and student protections under the ESOS Act. Located at the Camellia Campus in NSW, students benefit from practical placements and industry connections. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource to help you make informed study decisions.
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Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 118648B) is a Diploma delivered by Signature Training Pty Ltd over 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks). This qualification sits at AQF Level 5 and belongs to the field of Education (07), specifically Teacher Education: Early Childhood (070101). It is designed for individuals seeking to work in early childhood education settings such as long day care centres, preschools, and family day care. The course includes a mandatory work component of 10 weeks (28 hours per week, approximately 280 total hours) to provide practical industry experience. All CRICOS-registered courses, including this one, are protected under the ESOS Act, giving international students rights to refunds and course change provisions. HeadStart Academy sources all data from the official CRICOS register as at 1 April 2026.
This Diploma covers the development of educational programs tailored to children's needs, focusing on early childhood pedagogy, health and safety, family engagement, and leadership in early childhood settings. Students learn to design, implement, and evaluate curricula that promote learning and development from birth to school age. The course aligns with the Australian Children's Education & Care Quality Authority (ACECQA) standards and the National Quality Framework. While specific units may vary, graduates typically develop competencies in assessing children's progress, fostering inclusive environments, and managing staff and operations. The field of Teacher Education: Early Childhood prepares educators to make a difference in children's formative years.
The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care runs for 1 year 6 months (~78 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. Instruction is in English, and this is a single qualification (no dual award or foundation studies component). Students attend classes at the Camellia Campus in Camellia, NSW. The course is likely delivered in a face-to-face mode with practical placements, though students should confirm the exact study schedule with Signature Training Pty Ltd. Part-time study is generally not permitted on a Student visa (Subclass 500) for courses of this duration, unless approved by the provider. Always check your visa conditions carefully.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$17,500, with non-tuition fees of A$250, giving an estimated total of A$17,750. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register and are subject to change. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge. For current fees, always visit Signature Training Pty Ltd's website at http://www.signaturetraining.edu.au. Living costs in Sydney (near Camellia) are approximately A$600–A$800 per week for rent, groceries, and transport. HeadStart Academy advises budgeting for at least A$21,041 per year as per Department of Home Affairs guidelines. OSHC costs roughly A$600–A$800 per year for a single student. Remember, course fees shown are indicative only and should be confirmed directly with the provider.
For the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care, international students typically require an IELTS overall score of 5.5–6.0 (or equivalent) and completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent. Some providers may require prior study in a related field (e.g., Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care). Foundation or pathway programs are not offered as part of this course, but students who do not meet English requirements can consider ELICOS programs. Always check the specific entry requirements on the provider's website. This is general guidance only; meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission. For visa purposes, you must demonstrate genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criteria and financial capacity. Consult a registered migration agent (MARA) for individual advice.
This course includes a mandatory work-integrated learning component: 10 weeks of placement at 28 hours per week (approximately 280 total hours). This practical experience is typically conducted in an early childhood education setting such as a childcare centre or preschool. The placement allows students to apply theoretical knowledge, develop professional skills, and build industry networks. Under the Student visa (Subclass 500), work placements that are a compulsory part of the course are not counted towards the usual 48-hour per fortnight work limit. International students are encouraged to discuss placement logistics, supervision, and assessment methods with Signature Training Pty Ltd before enrolment.
This course is delivered at the Camellia Campus in Camellia, NSW. Camellia is a suburb of Sydney, located approximately 25 km west of the city centre. Sydney is home to over 200 CRICOS-registered providers and a large international student population. Living costs in Sydney are among the highest in Australia, but the city offers excellent public transport, cultural diversity, and job opportunities. The campus is accessible via train and bus services. Students should consider proximity to accommodation and part-time work options when choosing this location.
International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to study full-time, work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term, and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. You must maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) and meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement. Financial capacity proof is required: you must show sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and travel. A student visa application costs A$1,600 (as at 2026). For dependents, additional conditions apply. Always refer to the Department of Home Affairs website or consult a MARA agent. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice.
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy's directory to filter by course level, field, and city. Compare Signature Training Pty Ltd with other providers offering Early Childhood Education diplomas in NSW. 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check Signature Training's entry requirements, arrange your English test (IELTS or equivalent), and submit your application before the deadline. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, you'll get a CoE, which you need for your visa application. Prepare your financial documents, OSHC, and GTE statement. Apply online via ImmiAccount.
New South Wales, particularly Sydney, offers a vibrant study environment with world-class education facilities, a multicultural community, and abundant job opportunities in early childhood education. Sydney has over 200 CRICOS-registered providers and a strong demand for qualified educators. The cost of living is high, but part-time work can help offset expenses. Consider your budget, lifestyle preferences, and career goals. HeadStart Academy provides free resources to help you compare courses and locations. Data shows more than 26,000 courses are available across Australia, so take your time to find the right fit.
Ready to start your journey in early childhood education? Apply now to Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care at Signature Training Pty Ltd. Begin by checking entry requirements on their website.
Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Signature Training 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.