Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care

The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is a practical qualification for people who want to work with young children in Australian early learning services. You will learn how to plan and deliver educational programmes for children from birth to five, support their development, and meet their health, safety and wellbeing needs. The course covers child development, curriculum and pedagogy, observation and assessment, working with families, and legal and ethical requirements. You will also study how to create inclusive environments and respond to children with additional needs.

This diploma is delivered over 1.5 years, typically across three or four study periods. It is made up of units of study, each with a set number of credit points. The exact unit list and credit points are published by Australian Scholar's College. Assessment is competency-based, meaning you must demonstrate that you can apply your skills in real or simulated workplace situations. Most students complete a supervised professional placement in a registered early childhood service as part of the course, which gives you direct experience with children, families and colleagues.

You will gain skills in curriculum planning, child observation, documentation, behaviour guidance, and working within the National Quality Framework. You will also learn to communicate with families, work in a team, and follow regulations and standards. The qualification meets the minimum requirements for employment as an early childhood educator in many Australian services, though you should check with the relevant state or territory regulatory authority for specific roles.

This course suits people who enjoy working with young children and want a hands-on qualification that leads directly to employment. It is also a pathway to further study, such as a bachelor degree in early childhood education, which can lead to teacher registration. If you are an international student, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while studying, and you may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream after you finish. English requirements are set by the college and the Department of Home Affairs. Always confirm fees, intake dates and English requirements on the official CRICOS register and the college's website.

• Early childhood educator in long day care, preschool or kindergarten services
• Room leader or lead educator in an early learning centre
• Family day care educator
• Nanny or in-home caregiver
• Educational support worker in early intervention services
• Playgroup facilitator or community programme assistant

These roles are found across Australia in private, not-for-profit and government-run early childhood services. The diploma is also a pathway to further study, such as a Bachelor of Early Childhood Education, which can lead to teacher registration and higher-level positions.