Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care

This diploma is your entry point into working with young children in Australia. It covers the early years, roughly birth to five, and how to support children's learning, development and wellbeing in settings like long day care, kindergartens and family day care. You'll study child development, curriculum planning, health and safety, and how to work with families and communities. The course also covers legal and ethical requirements, including the National Quality Framework and the Early Years Learning Framework, which set the standards for early childhood services across the country.

How the course is structured

Australian diplomas are typically made up of units of study, each with a set credit point value. At Penfold College, this diploma runs for 1.5 years, which usually means three or four semesters of study. You'll complete a mix of core units and electives, and there's a strong practical component. Most early childhood diplomas include a work placement where you spend time in a real service, supervised by qualified educators. That placement is where you put theory into practice: planning activities, observing children, and working as part of a team. Assessment is through a mix of assignments, projects, and practical demonstrations.

What you'll learn

You'll learn how to plan and implement programs that meet children's individual needs and interests. That means observing children, documenting their learning, and using that information to design experiences that help them grow. You'll also learn about child protection, first aid, and how to create safe and inclusive environments. Communication skills are a big part of it, because you'll be talking with children, families, and colleagues every day. By the end, you should be able to work independently or as part of a team, and you'll understand the regulations that govern early childhood services.

Who this course suits

This diploma suits people who want to work directly with young children and are looking for a practical qualification that leads to a job. It's also a good fit if you're already working in the sector and want to formalise your skills or move into a room leader or supervisor role. International students should note that this course is registered on CRICOS (course code 108245D), which means it's available to international students studying in Australia on a Student visa. While you study, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time, and 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. English requirements for international students are typically IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall, but check the official page for the exact requirement, as it can vary. Tuition fees are published on the CRICOS register, so confirm the current amount there.

• Early childhood educator in long day care centres, kindergartens, and preschools
• Room leader or lead educator responsible for planning and supervising a room
• Family day care educator running your own home-based service
• Outside school hours care assistant or coordinator
• Nanny or in-home carer for families
• Early childhood service director (with further experience and study)

These roles are in demand across Australia, in metropolitan and regional areas. The sector employs thousands of people in childcare centres, community organisations, and government-funded programs. With this diploma, you can also go on to study a bachelor degree in early childhood education, which can lead to teacher registration and higher-level positions.