Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 118657A) is a Diploma delivered by Australian College of Vocational Education and Training Pty Ltd over 1 year 1 month (~56 weeks). This course equips students with the skills to design and implement early childhood learning programs, supervise staff, and manage services for children from birth to 5 years. As an AQF Level 5 qualification, it provides the knowledge to work as an early childhood educator or centre director. The program includes a mandatory work component of 7 weeks (280 hours) of industry placement, ensuring graduates are job-ready. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026) – your trusted primary source for international student course information.
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This Diploma falls under the field of Teacher Education: Early Childhood (070101). Students learn to create nurturing, inclusive environments that support children's learning and development. Core areas include child development theories, curriculum planning, health and safety regulations, family engagement, and leadership in early childhood settings. The program blends theoretical knowledge with practical application, preparing graduates to work in long day care, preschool, or as family day care educators. Graduates may also pursue further study in early childhood teaching (Bachelor degree). Note: This description is a general guide; specific units of study are set by the provider. Check with Australian College of Vocational Education and Training Pty Ltd for the detailed syllabus.
The course is delivered full-time over 1 year 1 month (~56 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register (56 weeks total). Instruction is in English. This is a single qualification (no dual or foundation studies). Students are expected to attend classes at the listed campuses. The duration includes a 7-week work placement (see Work Component section). International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with Student visa (Subclass 500) conditions.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$18,500, with additional non-tuition fees of A$1,500 (e.g., materials, resources). Estimated total cost is A$20,000. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Always confirm current fees directly with the provider at https://www.acvet.edu.au/. Note: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge are not included. For indicative living costs in Melbourne/Victoria, budget approximately A$400–600 per week for rent, food, and transport. Melbourne has over 130 CRICOS-registered providers, and the student population exceeds 250,000, offering excellent support services.
Applicants typically need completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent. English language proficiency: IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall (or equivalent). Some providers may require prior study in early childhood or related fields. Foundation or pathway options are available – contact Australian College of Vocational Education and Training Pty Ltd for specific entry pathways. International students must meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement and demonstrate financial capacity for tuition, living costs, and OSHC.
Yes – this course includes a mandatory work component of 7 weeks at 40 hours per week, totalling approximately 280 hours. This is known as work-integrated learning (WIL) – an industry placement in a regulated early childhood service. Under supervision, students apply theoretical knowledge to real-world settings, gaining hands-on experience in planning and delivering educational programs, managing groups of children, and complying with National Quality Standards. The placement is arranged by the provider and is a key part of meeting Australian Children's Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA) requirements.
This course is delivered at two campuses in Victoria: Melbourne Campus in MELBOURNE (inner city) and Melbourne CBD campus in DOCKLANDS. Both are in the City of Melbourne, a major hub for international students. Melbourne has excellent public transport (trams, trains, buses) connecting suburbs to the city. Living costs are higher in the CBD (weekly rent approx. A$350–500 for shared accommodation), while suburbs offer cheaper options. The city is home to over 130 CRICOS-registered institutions and a vibrant student community.
International students require a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. The visa allows work rights: up to 48 hours per fortnight while the course is in session, and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Key requirements: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement, English proficiency, OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover) for the duration, and sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and travel. All CRICOS-registered providers, including Australian College of Vocational Education and Training Pty Ltd, are bound by the ESOS Act, which protects international students' rights, including tuition protection. Note: HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice – consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs.
Follow these three steps to enrol in Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care at Australian College of Vocational Education and Training Pty Ltd: 1) Research CRICOS-registered providers – use the CRICOS register to filter by course level, field (education), and location (Victoria/Melbourne). Ensure the provider holds current registration. 2) Apply directly to Australian College of Vocational Education and Training Pty Ltd – meet entry requirements (academic and English), submit your application, and provide necessary documents. Check deadlines and any additional pathway options. 3) Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – once accepted, the provider issues a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs, including GTE, OSHC, and financial evidence.
Ready to start your early childhood career? Browse more Diploma courses in Education or contact Australian College of Vocational Education and Training Pty Ltd directly for application details.
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Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Australian College of Vocational Education and 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.