Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care

The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care at TrEd College is a one-year qualification that prepares you to work with young children, typically from birth to five years, in Australian early learning services. You'll study how children grow and learn, how to plan and run educational programmes, 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 side of the job. You'll also learn about inclusion, diversity, and how to support children with additional needs.

This diploma sits at the diploma level on the Australian Qualifications Framework. It's a vocational qualification, so it's practical and hands-on. You can expect a mix of classroom learning and real work in early childhood settings. Many diplomas include a set number of hours of work placement, where you'll be in a service with children, supervised by experienced educators. Assessment is often a mix of written tasks, projects, and practical observations. The course is usually delivered over one year full-time, though some providers offer part-time or online options. You'll need to confirm the exact structure, units, and placement hours with TrEd College.

Skills you'll build include observing and documenting children's learning, designing play-based experiences, communicating with families, and working within the National Quality Framework. You'll also develop the ability to work in a team and respond to children's individual needs. The diploma is a good fit if you want to start working in early childhood education, or if you're already working in the sector and want to upskill. It's also a pathway to further study, such as a bachelor's degree in early childhood education, which can lead to teacher registration.

International students should note that this course is registered on CRICOS (course code 118632K), so it's available to international students studying in Australia. You'll need to meet English requirements, typically IELTS 6.0–6.5 overall, though this can vary. While studying, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight. After graduating, you may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream, which lets you stay and work in Australia. Always check the official CRICOS page and TrEd College's website for the latest details on tuition, entry requirements, and course structure.

• Early childhood educator – work in long day care, preschools, and kindergartens across Australia.
• Room leader – lead a team in an early learning room, planning and implementing programmes.
• Family day care educator – run your own home-based early childhood service.
• Nanny or in-home carer – provide care and education in a family's home.
• Education support worker – assist in early years settings or primary schools.
• Playgroup coordinator – organise and run play-based sessions for young children and their families.

These roles are in demand across Australia, in childcare centres, preschools, and community organisations. The diploma also gives you a pathway to further study, such as a bachelor's degree in early childhood education, which can lead to teacher registration and higher-level roles.