Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care

This diploma gives you the practical skills to work with young children in Australian early childhood services. You'll study how children grow and learn, how to plan and run activities that match their development, and how to keep them safe and well. The course covers child development, curriculum and pedagogy, health and safety, working with families, and the legal and ethical rules that guide educators. You'll also learn how to observe children, document their learning, and use that information to plan what comes next.

How the course is structured

The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is an AQF diploma, usually delivered over two years. It's made up of units of study, each with a set number of credit points. Most students take a full-time load across semesters or trimesters, though some providers offer part-time or flexible options. Assessment is a mix of written tasks, projects, and practical work. You'll spend time in a real early childhood service on placement, where you work alongside qualified educators and get hands-on experience with children from birth to five years. This work-integrated learning is a core part of the qualification and is required for you to graduate.

What you'll learn

You'll graduate able to support children's development, design and implement learning experiences, and work within the National Quality Framework. You'll learn how to communicate with families, work in a team, and respond to children's individual needs. The course also covers first aid, child protection, and how to create inclusive environments. These are the skills employers look for in long day care, preschool, and family day care settings.

Who it suits

This diploma suits people who want to work directly with young children and their families. It's a good fit if you're patient, observant, and enjoy helping children learn through play. You don't need prior experience in early childhood to start, but you do need to meet the English requirements if you're an international applicant. The published standard for this course is IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall, or an equivalent accepted by the provider. The Department of Home Affairs also sets a separate English threshold for the Student visa. While you study, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight. After you finish, you may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream. Always check the official CRICOS page and the provider's website for the most current details.

• Early childhood educator – work in long day care, preschool, or occasional care services.
• Room leader – lead a team in a specific age group, plan programs, and mentor other educators.
• Family day care educator – run your own home-based service.
• Outside school hours care assistant – support children before and after school.
• Nanny – provide in-home care for families.
• Education support worker – assist in kindergartens and early learning centres.

These roles are in high demand across Australia, in childcare centres, kindergartens, and community organisations. The diploma also gives you a pathway to further study, such as a bachelor degree in early childhood education, which can lead to teaching registration.