Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care

This diploma is your entry point into working with young children in Australia. It covers the practical and theoretical sides of early childhood education and care, from child development and curriculum planning to health, safety and working with families. You'll learn how to design and run activities that support children's learning, observe and assess their progress, and create inclusive environments where every child can thrive. The course also covers legal and ethical requirements, including child protection and workplace health and safety, so you're ready for the responsibilities that come with the job.

How the course is structured

The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is a one-year qualification at the diploma level. It's made up of units of study, each with a set number of credit points. You'll typically study full-time over two semesters or trimesters, with a mix of classroom-based learning and hands-on practice. A key part of the course is the work placement, where you'll spend time in a regulated early childhood service, working alongside experienced educators. This placement is where you put your skills into practice and build the confidence to work independently.

What you'll learn

You'll graduate with the skills to plan and implement programs that meet the developmental needs of children from birth to five years. You'll learn how to support children's language, literacy and numeracy, guide their behaviour in positive ways, and work in partnership with families and communities. The course also covers how to respond to children at risk, manage administrative tasks, and work within the National Quality Framework. By the end, you'll be able to take on a room leader role and contribute to the day-to-day running of a service.

Who it's for

This diploma suits people who want a career working with young children and their families. If you're patient, creative and enjoy helping children learn and grow, this could be for you. It's also a good fit if you're already working in the sector and want to upskill to a qualified educator or room leader position. International students should check the English language requirements, which are typically IELTS 6.0–6.5 overall for this level of study. You'll also need to meet the Student visa requirements, including the English threshold set by the Department of Home Affairs. While you study, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight, and after you finish, you may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) to gain work experience in Australia. Always confirm the latest details on the official Chisholm Institute page or the CRICOS register.

• Early childhood educator: Work in long day care, preschools or kindergartens, planning and delivering educational programs for children.
• Room leader: Lead a team of educators in a specific age group, overseeing daily routines and curriculum.
• Family day care educator: Run your own home-based service, caring for small groups of children.
• Outside school hours care educator: Work in before and after school programs, supporting primary-aged children.
• Nanny or in-home carer: Provide personalised care for children in a family home.
• Early childhood service coordinator: Take on administrative and leadership roles in childcare centres.

These roles are in high demand across Australia, in childcare centres, preschools, kindergartens, and community organisations. The skills you gain are also a stepping stone to further study, such as a bachelor degree in early childhood education, which can lead to teaching registration and higher-level positions.