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Diploma of Early Childhood Education and CareDiploma

Step up to lead rooms and design educational programs — for educators who plan, implement and manage curriculum.

Overview

About this qualification

This qualification reflects the role of educators who are responsible for designing and implementing curriculum that meets the requirements of an approved learning framework, and for maintaining compliance in other areas of service operations.

Graduates are prepared for room leadership and educational-leader pathways in early childhood services, supervising volunteers and other educators.

Career outcomes

Graduates of this qualification typically pursue roles such as:

Room LeaderEducational LeaderCentre Educator (Diploma level)Assistant Director pathway

Career and further-study outcomes depend on individual circumstances; completing a course does not guarantee employment or any migration outcome.

Work placement

This qualification includes workplace requirements in regulated children's services — details are confirmed by the college before enrolment.

Entry requirements

  • Generally 18 years or older at course commencement
  • Satisfactory completion of schooling equivalent to Australian Year 12, or relevant experience for higher-level qualifications
  • International students: English proficiency (e.g. IELTS or equivalent) at the level set for this course — confirm the current requirement with the college
  • Pre-enrolment review (language, literacy, numeracy and digital skills)

Training, assessment & support

Delivery is competency-based and practical, combining structured learning with applied tasks, case studies and projects. Assessment methods include written tasks, projects, presentations and practical demonstrations.

Students are supported with additional classes where needed, accessible trainers, reasonable adjustments, and individual assistance — see student support.

Recognition of prior learning

If you have prior study or substantial work experience, you can apply for credit transfer or recognition of prior learning (RPL) during enrolment.

Unit structure, duration & fees

This qualification’s unit structure follows the current national training package. The college provides the current unit list, duration, timetable, intake dates and full fee schedule with your Letter of Offer.

The qualification code and title above are from Thames’s scope of registration on training.gov.au. Duration, intakes, fees and international availability: confirmed with the college at application.

Page last reviewed: 11 August 2026

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