Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 118661E) is a Diploma delivered by Australian Vocational Training Academy Pty Ltd over 2 years. This qualification is designed for those seeking to work as early childhood educators in Australia, covering child development, program planning, and regulatory compliance. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 04034B), it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment. The course is delivered in Blacktown (NSW) and Hobart (TAS), offering flexibility for students in both mainland and Tasmania. With a strong focus on practical skills through a work component, graduates are prepared for roles such as early childhood teacher or centre director. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and this Diploma sits within the Education field (07). HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource, sourced directly from the CRICOS register (April 2026), to help you make informed decisions.
The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS 118661E) is a nationally recognised qualification at AQF Level 5, falling under the field of Teacher Education: Early Childhood (070101). Delivered by Australian Vocational Training Academy Pty Ltd (CRICOS 04034B), this course provides comprehensive training in early childhood development, curriculum design, and leadership within education settings. Graduates typically find employment in long day care centres, preschools, or as family day care educators. The program emphasises practical skills and theoretical knowledge, preparing students to work with children from birth to five years. As a CRICOS-registered course, international students are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring quality education and consumer rights. The provider, a private institution, has been registered since [assumed], offering VET courses including this Diploma with VET national code CHC50125.
The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care covers a broad range of competencies required for professional early childhood practice. Students learn about child development, health and safety, program planning, and inclusive practices. The curriculum typically includes units on fostering children's learning, working with diverse families, and managing early childhood services. While specific unit outlines are set by the provider, this qualification aligns with nationally endorsed training packages. Graduates develop skills in observation, documentation, and reflective practice, enabling them to design and implement educational programs that meet individual needs. The course also addresses regulatory frameworks, including the National Quality Standard and the Early Years Learning Framework, ensuring graduates are industry-ready. This knowledge is crucial for roles such as early childhood educator or centre coordinator.
The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is delivered over 104 weeks (2 years) full-time, as recorded on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification, not part of a dual award or foundation studies program. The course structure includes classroom-based learning and a mandatory work component. Students are expected to attend classes during standard academic periods, with scheduled breaks in line with Australian academic calendars. The duration is appropriate for the depth of content, allowing students to engage with both theory and practice. International students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) must maintain full-time enrolment and satisfactory course progress to comply with visa conditions.
The indicative tuition fee for the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care at Australian Vocational Training Academy is A$28,000 total, with non-tuition fees of A$700, bringing the estimated total to A$28,700. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. The tuition fee covers the cost of instruction, learning materials, and access to facilities. Non-tuition fees may include application fees, resource fees, or administrative charges. It is important to note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge are not included. For current and accurate fees, always check the provider's website directly. Indicative living costs vary by location: in Sydney, weekly rent for a single person averages A$450–600, while Hobart is more affordable at A$350–500. Budgeting for groceries (A$80–150/week) and transport (A$30–60/week) is essential.
International students applying for this Diploma typically need an IELTS score of 5.5 to 6.0 overall (or equivalent), demonstrating English language proficiency. Prior academic qualifications equivalent to an Australian Year 12 certificate are usually expected, though some providers may accept relevant work experience. As this is a Diploma (AQF Level 5), foundation or pathway programs may be available for students who do not meet direct entry requirements. For specific entry criteria, including academic prerequisites and English test alternatives, consult Australian Vocational Training Academy directly. It is crucial to meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for the Student visa, showing a genuine intention to study in Australia. HeadStart Academy does not guarantee admission; all applicants must satisfy the provider's standards.
This course includes a mandatory work component: 14 weeks of workplace learning at 20 hours per week, totalling approximately 280 hours. This integrated work placement allows students to gain practical experience in early childhood settings, applying theoretical knowledge under professional supervision. Placements typically occur in licensed childcare centres, preschools, or similar facilities. This practical component is essential for developing real-world skills and meeting industry requirements for graduation. Students are responsible for organising their own placements, often with support from the provider. The work component also contributes to visa-compliant work hours, but as it is part of the course, it does not count toward the 48-hour-per-fortnight work limit during term.
This Diploma is delivered at two campuses: 125 Main St, Blacktown NSW 2148 (Western Sydney) and 132-146 Elizabeth St, Hobart TAS 7000 (Central Hobart). Blacktown is a major suburb of Sydney, home to a large multicultural community and close to public transport (train and bus). It has a high number of registered providers — over 200 in the Sydney area — offering diverse study options. Hobart, the capital of Tasmania, has a smaller student population with around a dozen CRICOS providers, offering a more intimate study environment. Living costs in Hobart are generally lower than Sydney; rent for a one-bedroom apartment averages A$350–500/week compared to A$450–600 in Sydney. Both campuses are accessible via public transport, with Blacktown station a short walk away and Hobart's campus near the city centre.
International students enrolling in this course must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). The visa allows full-time study and includes work rights: up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions. Key requirements include meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, maintaining Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay, and demonstrating sufficient financial capacity for tuition, living costs, and travel. Living costs: A$21,041 per year for a single student (Department of Home Affairs estimate). The ESOS Act provides legal protections, including tuition fee refunds if the provider fails to deliver. For personalised advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit homeaffairs.gov.au.
Applying for the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care at Australian Vocational Training Academy involves three steps. First, research CRICOS-registered providers like this one to confirm your chosen course meets your goals. Use HeadStart Academy to compare courses, locations, and fees. Second, apply directly to the institution: submit your academic transcripts, English test results (if required), and any other supporting documents. Check application deadlines and entry requirements on the provider's website. Third, if accepted, receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure your visa application includes all necessary evidence, including OSHC and financial capacity. Remember, HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice; always verify with a MARA agent for your specific situation.
Choosing between the Blacktown and Hobart campuses involves weighing factors like cost of living, climate, and lifestyle. Blacktown (Sydney) offers a bustling urban environment with diverse amenities, but higher living expenses. Hobart provides a more affordable, close-knit community with stunning natural surroundings. Both locations have strong transport links: Blacktown has trains to Sydney CBD (30 minutes), while Hobart's campus is walkable from the city centre. The number of early childhood services in each region differs—Sydney has many childcare centres offering placement opportunities, while Hobart's smaller size may mean more personalised placement support. Consider your personal preferences for city living versus a quieter setting. HeadStart Academy suggests visiting both cities if possible, or using online resources to gauge which environment suits your study and career goals.
Ready to start your early childhood career? Visit the Australian Vocational Training Academy website to apply or learn more about this course.
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Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Australian Vocational Training Academy 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.