Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (Teacher Education: Early Childhood)

The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care at Lawson College Australia is a two-year qualification that prepares you to work with children from birth to five years in long day care, preschools, family day care and occasional care settings. You learn how to plan and run a play-based curriculum, observe and document children's learning, keep them safe and healthy, and work with families from many backgrounds. The course covers child development, legal and ethical requirements, first aid, nutrition, and the National Quality Framework that governs early childhood services in Australia.

Australian diplomas are made up of units of study, each with a set number of credit points. This course is delivered over two years, usually across semesters or trimesters. Assessment is practical as well as written: you build a portfolio of observations, plan and lead activities, and complete a set number of hours of professional placement in a registered early childhood service. Placement is a core part of the diploma because the job is hands-on. You are supervised by qualified educators and assessed against the skills and knowledge the industry expects.

You graduate with the ability to design learning experiences that follow children's interests, support their development, and meet the requirements of the Early Years Learning Framework. You also learn how to communicate with families, work in a team, and respond to children who need extra support. The diploma sits at AQF level 5, which means it is practical and job-ready. It also gives you a pathway into further study, such as a bachelor degree in early childhood education, with credit for the units you have completed.

This course suits people who enjoy working with young children and want a qualification that leads directly to employment. It is also a good fit if you are already working in the sector and want formal recognition of your skills. International students should note that while you study in Australia, your Student visa allows you to work up to 48 hours per fortnight once your course has started. After you finish, you may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream, which lets you stay and work in Australia for a period. Always check the official CRICOS register and the Department of Home Affairs website for the most current details on tuition, entry requirements and visa conditions.

• Early childhood educator in long day care centres, preschools and kindergartens
• Family day care educator running your own home-based service
• Room leader or lead educator responsible for a group of children and a team of assistants
• Outside school hours care educator working with primary school-aged children before and after school
• Inclusion support worker helping children with additional needs participate in mainstream services
• Nanny or home-based carer employed directly by families

These roles are found across Australia in private and community-run childcare centres, local government preschools, mobile services in rural and remote areas, and not-for-profit organisations. The diploma also provides a pathway to further study, such as a Bachelor of Early Childhood Education, which can lead to teacher registration and higher-level positions.