Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 119085B) is a Diploma delivered by Macallan College Pty Ltd over 1 year 3 months (~65 weeks). This qualification, aligned to VET national code CHC50121, equips international students with the skills to work as early childhood educators in a range of settings, including preschools, day care centres, and family day care. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets the Australian Government's standards for international student enrolment, ensuring quality education and ESOS Act protections. With an indicative total cost of A$20,000 and a mandatory work placement of 280 hours, this course offers both theoretical knowledge and practical experience. Delivery locations include Brisbane, Adelaide, Harris Park (Sydney), and Perth, giving students flexibility across Australia's major student cities.
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Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (CRICOS course code 119085B) is a Diploma delivered by Macallan College Pty Ltd over 1 year 3 months (~65 weeks). This course is registered under the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS), making it accessible to international students seeking quality education in Australia. As an AQF Level 5 qualification, it provides a pathway to a career in early childhood education, covering topics such as child development, program planning, and regulatory compliance. Macallan College Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03468F) is a private provider with campuses in Queensland, South Australia, New South Wales, and Western Australia, offering students a choice of study locations. The course includes a work component of 28 weeks (10 hours per week, approx. 280 total hours) to ensure graduates are job-ready.
This diploma falls under the field of Teacher Education: Early Childhood (070101) within the broader Education field (07). Students explore child development theories, inclusive practices, and effective teaching strategies for children aged 0–5. The curriculum typically covers designing and implementing curriculum, fostering relationships with families and communities, and managing compliance with the National Quality Framework. While specific unit details are set by Macallan College, graduates emerge with the competencies needed to lead early childhood teams and deliver high-quality care. This qualification does not include foundation studies and is a single (non-dual) award.
The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care spans 1 year 3 months (~65 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. Instructions is in English. This is a single qualification (no dual award) and does not include foundation studies. Students should plan for a full-time study load, typically 20 hours per week of scheduled classes plus additional self-study. The course includes a work placement of 28 weeks (10 hrs/week, ~280 total hours), which may be scheduled during the program. Macallan College offers this course at four campuses: Brisbane (QLD), Adelaide (SA), Harris Park (NSW), and Perth (WA), each providing a unique urban experience.
Indicative fees for the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Tuition is A$18,500, with non-tuition fees of A$1,500 (covering materials, administration, etc.), bringing the estimated total to A$20,000. These fees are set by Macallan College and subject to change without notice. Additional costs not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (e.g., rent, food, transport), and the visa application charge for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Always confirm current fees directly with the provider at macallancollege.edu.au (or as listed on the CRICOS register).
Entry requirements for this diploma are determined by Macallan College. A typical English language proficiency level is IELTS 5.5–6.0 overall (or equivalent). Applicants are generally expected to have completed Australian Year 12 or equivalent, or hold a relevant Certificate III or higher qualification. Foundation or pathway options may be available for students who do not meet direct entry; contact Macallan College for details. As with all CRICOS-registered courses, visa applicants must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity. HeadStart Academy recommends checking the provider's website for exact entry criteria.
This course includes a mandatory work component: 28 weeks, 10 hours per week, totalling approximately 280 hours. This is an industry placement, typically in an early childhood education setting such as a long day care centre, preschool, or kindergarten. Work-integrated learning allows students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world environments, develop practical skills, and build professional networks. Placements are supervised by qualified educators and comply with workplace health and safety standards. This experience is invaluable for meeting the professional requirements of the early childhood sector and can enhance employability after graduation.
Macallan College delivers this diploma at four campuses: - Macallan Brisbane Campus — EAST BRISBANE, QLD: Brisbane is Queensland's capital with over 150 CRICOS-registered providers and a large international student community. Average weekly rent is A$200–300, and public transport (buses, trains, ferries) is well-connected. Living costs are moderate compared to Sydney and Melbourne. - Macallan College Pty Ltd (Adelaide - SA) — Adelaide, SA: Adelaide has a lower cost of living (~A$150–250/week rent) and over 80 CRICOS providers. The city's compact size makes public transport (trams, buses) efficient. - Macallan College Pty Ltd (Harris Park - NSW) — HARRIS PARK, NSW: Located in Sydney's west, Harris Park offers easy access to Parramatta and Sydney CBD. Sydney has the highest number of CRICOS providers (over 400) and higher living costs (rent ~A$250–400/week). Public transport includes trains and buses. - Macallan College Pty Ltd (Perth - WA) — PERTH, WA: Perth has over 120 CRICOS providers, a relaxed lifestyle, and rental costs around A$200–300/week. Public transport (trains, buses) services most suburbs. Each campus offers a unique experience; choose based on your preferences for city size, climate, and cost.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course full-time in Australia. Key requirements include: - Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) assessment - Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the course duration - Financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs (approx. A$21,041/year), and travel - Work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term, unlimited during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions) - Compliance with ESOS Act protections, which safeguard tuition fees and ensure quality education HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; consult a MARA-registered agent or the Department of Home Affairs for visa advice.
Follow these three steps: 1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use the official CRICOS register or HeadStart Academy to confirm Macallan College (03468F) offers this course at your preferred location. Compare it with other providers offering the same or similar diplomas. 2. Apply directly to Macallan College: Prepare your academic transcripts, English test results (e.g., IELTS), and any other documents required. Submit your application through the college's website or via an authorised education agent. Check application deadlines — they vary by intake (typically February, July, and October). 3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, Macallan College will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application online via the Department of Home Affairs. Include OSHC evidence, financial statements, and a genuine student statement. Ensure you apply well before the course start date.
Before choosing the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care, consider your career goals. Early childhood educators are in demand across Australia, with strong job growth projected. However, working with children requires patience, creativity, and a genuine passion for development. If you enjoy nurturing young minds and want a qualification that leads directly to employment (e.g., as an educator or centre director), this diploma is a solid choice. Also consider location: each delivery city offers different living costs, climate, and lifestyle. Brisbane and Perth have warmer weather; Adelaide is more affordable; Sydney (Harris Park) offers urban vibrancy but higher expenses. Use HeadStart Academy's tools to compare living costs and provider reviews.
Ready to start your early childhood education journey? Explore this and other CRICOS-registered courses on HeadStart Academy.
Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is a CRICOS-registered programme at Macallan College 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.