Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 118662D) is a Diploma delivered by Australian Professional Training Academy Pty Ltd over 1 year. This AQF Level 5 course prepares graduates to work as early childhood educators in a range of settings, including childcare centres, preschools, and family day care. As an international student, you'll study in Sydney, NSW, at one of four delivery locations. The course includes a mandatory work component and is registered on CRICOS, ensuring it meets Australian quality standards. HeadStart Academy provides this page as a free resource to help you explore CRICOS-registered courses—no referral fees, just reliable data from the official CRICOS register (April 2026).
| Metric | Value |
|---|
Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 118662D) is a Diploma delivered by Australian Professional Training Academy Pty Ltd over 1 year. This qualification is classified under AQF Level 5 and falls within the field of Education (07) – Teacher Education (0701) – Teacher Education: Early Childhood (070101). It provides the theoretical knowledge and practical skills required to design and implement curriculum for children from birth to 12 years, with a focus on early childhood. Graduates are eligible to apply for roles such as early childhood educator, room leader, or centre director, subject to state licensing requirements. The course is registered with CRICOS, which means it meets the stringent standards set by the Australian Government for delivering education to international students. Australian Professional Training Academy Pty Ltd (CRICOS 04074E) is a private provider with campuses in Sydney, offering this course in multiple locations. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, students are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring tuition assurance and refund policies. HeadStart Academy sources all data directly from the CRICOS register as at 1 April 2026, so you can trust the information here.
The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care covers a broad range of competencies required to work effectively in early childhood settings. While the exact syllabus is set by Australian Professional Training Academy Pty Ltd, typical learning areas include child development, health and safety, fostering inclusive practices, designing learning environments, and building partnerships with families and communities. Students develop skills in planning and implementing play-based learning experiences that promote children's cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development. The course also emphasises leadership, reflective practice, and compliance with national quality standards. At this AQF Level 5, students are expected to demonstrate higher-order thinking and the ability to manage others in a workplace context. The work component provides real-world experience. Note that this is a single qualification, not a dual award, and does not include foundation studies. For a detailed syllabus, contact Australian Professional Training Academy Pty Ltd directly.
According to the CRICOS register, this Diploma has a duration of 1 year, which equates to 52 weeks. The language of instruction is English. It is a standalone qualification (no dual qualification). The course is typically delivered face-to-face at the provider's campuses in Sydney, NSW. International students should note that a full-time study load is required to comply with student visa conditions. The course may be structured over two semesters, with breaks in between. As it is a VET course with national code CHC50125, it aligns with the Australian VET system. The 52-week duration includes both classroom learning and the mandatory work component, which is integrated into the course schedule. For specific timetables and study mode variations (e.g., online components), refer to Australian Professional Training Academy Pty Ltd.
The indicative tuition fee for this course is A$10,500, with non-tuition fees of A$1,000 (covering materials, enrolment, etc.), leading to an estimated total of A$11,500. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register and are subject to change. Always confirm current fees directly with Australian Professional Training Academy Pty Ltd. Additional costs that are not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge. For a single student, OSHC typically costs A$500–A$700 per year. Living costs in Sydney are estimated at A$21,041 per year for an individual (2026 guidelines), covering accommodation, food, and transport. Rent in Sydney averages A$350–A$550 per week for shared accommodation. Budget for groceries (~A$80–$120/week) and transport (~A$30–$50/week). HeadStart Academy reminds you that course fees shown are indicative only – always visit the provider's website for the most current fee schedule.
Entry requirements for this Diploma are set by Australian Professional Training Academy Pty Ltd. Generally, international students need to demonstrate English proficiency, typically IELTS 5.5 to 6.0 overall (or equivalent), and have completed a qualification equivalent to Australian Year 12 or higher. Some prior experience in early childhood may be beneficial but not mandatory. If you do not meet the English requirements, pathway options may be available through the provider. Foundation studies are not part of this course, but the provider may offer separate English language programs. Always check the specific entry criteria on the provider's website. Remember, meeting entry requirements does not guarantee a student visa – you must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion and other visa conditions.
Yes, this course includes a mandatory work component: 14 weeks of work placement at 20 hours per week, totaling approximately 280 hours. This work-integrated learning (WIL) gives students practical experience in an early childhood education setting, such as a childcare centre or preschool. Under supervision, you will apply classroom learning to real-world situations, building confidence and industry connections. The placement is integrated into the course schedule and is a requirement for graduation. It also helps you meet the professional standards for early childhood educators in Australia. For international students, the work component must be a compulsory part of the course to comply with visa conditions. The provider will assist in arranging placement at approved sites. Note that this is different from part-time work allowances – the work component is part of your study program.
Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is delivered at four locations in Sydney, NSW: 35 Daisy Street, REVESBY NSW 2212; City Campus 410 Elizabeth Street, SURRY HILLS NSW; Commercial kitchen - Unit 19 30-32 Beaconsfield St, ALEXANDRIA NSW 2015; and Main Campus, REDFERN NSW. Sydney is Australia's largest city with a population of over 5 million, hosting more than 150,000 international students. It has a high concentration of CRICOS-registered providers – over 300 in the wider Sydney area. Living costs in Sydney are higher than other Australian cities; budget around A$21,000 per year for living expenses. All campuses are accessible by public transport: trains, buses, and light rail connect Revesby, Surry Hills, Alexandria, and Redfern to the city centre. The Redfern campus is near Redfern Station, and the Surry Hills campus is a short walk from Central Station. When choosing a location, consider proximity to accommodation and part-time work opportunities.
To study this course as an international student, you need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to study full-time in a CRICOS-registered course, work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term (and unlimited during scheduled breaks), and include family members. You must maintain enrolment, attend at least 80% of classes, and make satisfactory course progress. The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement means you must demonstrate a genuine intention to stay temporarily for study. You also need Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your visa – this covers medical and hospital care. Financial capacity evidence (tuition, living costs, travel) is required. Immigration advice is not provided by HeadStart Academy; consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs for personalised guidance.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care at Australian Professional Training Academy Pty Ltd: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Diploma), field (Education), and location (NSW). Verify that Australian Professional Training Academy Pty Ltd (CRICOS 04074E) offers this course (118662D). 2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check the provider's website for application deadlines, entry requirements (English test scores, academic transcripts), and application procedures. Submit your application online, including all supporting documents. 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, the provider will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you meet GTE, OSHC, and financial requirements.
Sydney offers a vibrant multicultural environment with world-class infrastructure, beaches, and cultural attractions. With over 150,000 international students from diverse backgrounds, you'll find strong support networks. The city has numerous early childhood education providers, offering potential work opportunities during and after studies. However, cost of living is high – rent for a one-bedroom apartment averages A$380–$500 per week, and groceries are around A$100–$150 weekly. Public transport costs about A$30–$50 per week for regular travel. Consider your budget carefully. Sydney's climate is mild, with warm summers and cool winters. If you prefer a quieter, more affordable lifestyle, other Australian cities may suit you better. Use HeadStart Academy to compare courses across different states.
Ready to start your early childhood education journey in Australia? Explore more courses at HeadStart Academy or contact Australian Professional Training Academy Pty Ltd directly to apply.
View the full Australian Professional Training Academy Pty Ltd profile →
Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Australian Professional 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.