Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 118918G) is a Diploma (AQF Level 5) delivered by Southern Institute of Early Learning and Leadership Pty Ltd (CRICOS 04070J) over 1 year. This qualification is designed for those seeking to work in early childhood education and care services, focusing on developing advanced skills in curriculum design, child development, and team leadership. The course includes a mandatory work component of 280 hours (14 weeks at 20 hours per week) to ensure graduates are job-ready. Indicative tuition fees are A$9,000 with non-tuition fees of A$700, totalling an estimated A$9,700. This course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS), guaranteeing it meets Australian standards for international students. Southern Institute of Early Learning and Leadership is a private provider with campuses in Phillip, ACT, and Sydney, NSW. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, students benefit from the protections of the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource, sourced directly from the CRICOS register as of April 2026. Read on to learn more about entry requirements, fees, and how to apply.
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The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care falls under the field of Teacher Education: Early Childhood (Field of Education code 070101). At the Diploma level (AQF Level 5), students acquire specialised knowledge and skills for professional or highly skilled work. Graduates typically learn to design and evaluate curricula that promote children's learning and development, manage compliance with regulatory frameworks, and lead teams in early childhood settings. The course covers areas such as child psychology, health and safety, inclusive practices, and family engagement. While specific unit details are set by the provider, this qualification prepares students for roles such as early childhood educator, room leader, or centre director. The practical work component ensures theoretical knowledge is applied in real early childhood environments. Always confirm the exact syllabus with Southern Institute of Early Learning and Leadership.
According to the CRICOS register, the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care runs for 52 weeks (1 year) of full-time study. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification with no dual or foundation studies components. Students are expected to attend classes and complete assessments as scheduled by Southern Institute of Early Learning and Leadership. The course is not offered online; delivery is face-to-face at the provider's campuses. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with their student visa conditions. The 52-week duration includes the work-integrated learning component, meaning students spend part of their course in industry placement.
Tuition fees for the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care are set at A$9,000 indicative total, with non-tuition fees of A$700, making an estimated total of A$9,700. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as of April 2026 and are subject to change. Please note that this does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. For the most current fee schedule, visit the Southern Institute of Early Learning and Leadership website. HeadStart Academy does not charge referral fees — this is a free resource to help you compare courses. Fees vary between providers, so always confirm directly before applying.
Entry to the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care typically requires an IELTS overall score between 5.5 and 6.0 (or equivalent English language test). Applicants are usually expected to have completed a relevant Certificate III or equivalent qualification, such as Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care. Some providers may also require work experience or a demonstrated interest in the field. For specific requirements, including any foundation or pathway options, contact Southern Institute of Early Learning and Leadership directly. Meeting entry requirements does not guarantee admission; the provider may have additional selection criteria.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 14 weeks at 20 hours per week (approximately 280 hours total). This is an industry placement (work-integrated learning) where students gain supervised practical experience in licensed early childhood education and care settings. Placement allows students to apply theoretical knowledge, develop professional skills, and build a network in the sector. It is a key feature of vocational education in Australia, ensuring graduates are work-ready. The provider arranges placements, but students may need to meet specific prerequisites such as a Working with Children Check. This component is an integral part of the course and must be completed to graduate.
The course is delivered at two campuses: ACT Campus in Phillip, Australian Capital Territory, and Level 5, 307 Pitt Street, Sydney, New South Wales 2000. Phillip is a suburb of Canberra, Australia's capital city, which has a strong education sector with many CRICOS-registered providers. Canberra offers a more relaxed lifestyle with lower living costs compared to Sydney; indicative weekly rent for a single bedroom is around $250–$400. Sydney, Australia's largest city, has a high concentration of international students and education facilities. The Pitt Street campus is in the central business district, easily accessible by train, bus, and light rail. Weekly rent in Sydney can range from $300–$500 for a room. Both locations provide diverse cultural experiences and access to support services for international students. When choosing a campus, consider your lifestyle preferences, budget, and proximity to early childhood centres for placement.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course on a full-time basis. Visa conditions include maintaining enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course, meeting attendance and academic progress requirements, and holding Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of stay. Work rights allow up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks. The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement assesses your intention to stay temporarily in Australia. You must demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs (estimated at AUD$21,041 per year for the main applicant), and OSHC. Under the ESOS Act, CRICOS-registered courses offer consumer protections, including tuition fee refunds in certain circumstances. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a guide; for visa advice, consult a registered migration agent or the Department of Home Affairs.
Applying for the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care at Southern Institute of Early Learning and Leadership is straightforward. Follow these three steps: Step 1: Research CRICOS-registered providers — use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Diploma), field (Education), and location (ACT or NSW) to confirm your choice. Step 2: Apply directly to Southern Institute of Early Learning and Leadership — ensure you meet entry requirements (English test scores, prior qualifications), prepare all documents, and submit your application before the deadline. The provider will assess your eligibility. Step 3: Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) — once accepted, you will receive a CoE, which you need to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Submit your visa application to the Department of Home Affairs with required evidence (CoE, OSHC, financial capacity, GTE statement). HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; we provide free information to help you start your journey.
Choosing between the ACT and Sydney campuses depends on your preferences. Canberra offers a quieter, more affordable lifestyle with average rent lower than Sydney. The city has a strong focus on education and government, with many early childhood services. Sydney is a global city with a vibrant student community, higher living costs, but also more job opportunities in the sector. Both cities have good public transport connectivity to the campuses. Consider your budget, career goals, and preferred environment. For international students, Sydney's diversity may be appealing, while Canberra's structured environment might suit those seeking a focused study experience. Ultimately, both campuses provide the same high-quality qualification from a CRICOS-registered provider.
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Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Southern Institute of Early Learning and Leadership 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.