Course Overview

About This Course

If you're passionate about creating educational programs that support the learning and development of young children, the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care CHC50121 will equip you with the skills and knowledge to succeed. Australia's early childhood education and care sector is expanding, with strong demand for qualified educators projected over the next five years. This makes it an ideal time to pursue a career that offers both excellent job prospects and the chance to do meaningful, rewarding work. As an early childhood educator, you'll have the opportunity to make a lasting, positive impact on the lives of children while building a fulfilling and future-focused career. Melbourne Polytechnic's Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care CHC50121 equips you with the skills and knowledge to design and deliver educational programs that support each child's development, interests, and abilities. The course aligns with the National Quality Framework, including the Early Years Learning Framework, ensuring you gain best-practice and compliance skills that meet the National Quality Standards. You'll benefit from hands-on training in Melbourne Polytechnic's dedicated Early Childhood facilities, guided by experienced industry-based instructors who share real-world insights. With a strong focus on practical learning, you'll be prepared to step confidently into the workplace and make an impact from day one.

Where You Can Study

Available Locations

Preston campus, Melbourne Polytechnic, Preston VIC

377 Waterdale Rd, Heidelberg West, VIC 3081

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Eligibility

Entry Requirements

General Requirements

Click here to see entry requirements (specific entry requirements were not listed on the page)
Must be working a minimum of 14 hours per week (traineeship requirement)
Placement hours must be completed across a range of age groups in own workplace

Career & Study Pathways

Where this takes you

Career Opportunities

On completion, you may seek employment in the field of children's services, caring for young children up to the age of six in a variety of child care settings. Jobs include room leader, centre coordinator, or a nanny for private clients.

Quality & Recognition

Accreditation & Migration

Academic Regulator

VRQA / ASQA

Professional Body

Australian Children's Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA) / AITSL

Accreditation Status

Accredited

Skills Assessor

AITSL / ACECQA

Course Content

Units of Competency

All Units15 units

BSBHRM413

Support the learning and development of teams and individuals

Elective unit

BSBTWK502

Manage team effectiveness

Core unit

CHCECE041

Maintain a safe and healthy environment for children

Core unit

CHCECE042

Foster holistic early childhood learning, development and wellbeing

Core unit

CHCECE043

Nurture creativity in children

Core unit

CHCECE044

Facilitate compliance in a children's service

Core unit

CHCECE045

Foster positive and respectful interactions and behaviour in children

Core unit

CHCECE046

Implement strategies for the inclusion of all children

Core unit

CHCECE047

Analyse information to inform children's learning

Core unit

CHCECE048

Plan and implement children's education and care curriculum

Core unit

CHCECE049

Embed environmental responsibility in service operations

Core unit

CHCECE050

Work in partnership with children's families

Core unit

CHCECE053

Respond to grievances and complaints about the service

Elective unit

CHCINM002

Meet community information needs

Elective unit

CHCPRP003

Reflect on and improve own professional practice

Core unit

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between the traineeship and non-traineeship version of this diploma?

The traineeship version of the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care requires you to be working a minimum of 14 hours per week in a workplace, where you complete your placement hours across a range of age groups. Face-to-face classes on the Preston campus are optional monthly workshops. A non-traineeship version of the diploma is also available at Melbourne Polytechnic.

Is this course eligible for Free TAFE?

Yes, this course is listed as a Free TAFE course. The State Government's Free TAFE for Priority Courses initiative covers the cost of tuition (excluding Amenities Fees and Materials Fees) for eligible students. Free TAFE places are limited, and Free TAFE is available to eligible students for one course enrolment in a lifetime. Students are encouraged to call 1300 635 276 to check availability and eligibility.

What study pathways are available after completing this diploma?

After completing the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care CHC50121, you may continue your studies by enrolling in Melbourne Polytechnic's Bachelor of Education (Early Years) or Bachelor of Early Childhood Education. Students who have successfully completed the diploma will receive six credits via Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).

How much does the course cost?

The tuition fee is $0 under Free TAFE, $7,450 for government subsidised students, or $15,750 for non-subsidised students. In addition, a maximum annual amenities fee of $260 applies, making total payable amounts $260, $7,710, or $16,010 respectively. Fees displayed are effective for new applications received on or after 1st of November and are indicative only.

How is assessment conducted in this course?

Assessment for each competency is conducted through a combination of on-the-job (practicum) and off-the-job tasks. The course uses a blend of on-campus learning (optional monthly workshops) and self-paced online learning via Melbourne Polytechnic's Moodle platform.

Application

How to Apply

Three simple steps to get enrolled

Step 01

Enquire

Click "Enquire Now" and tell us a little about yourself. It's free and takes 2 minutes.

Step 02

Submit Documents

Our team will guide you on exactly which documents to prepare and submit.

Step 03

Get Enrolled

Receive your offer letter and confirm your enrolment. Welcome to the course!

Course Snapshot

Salary, careers & skills

Typical Salary

Entry-level (0-2 years)AUD $55,000 to $70,000 per year

Early Career (2-5 years)AUD $70,000 to $82,000 per year

Mid-Level (5-10 years)AUD $82,000 to $92,000 per year

Career Paths

Early Childhood Educator (Certificate III level)Early Childhood Teacher (ECT)Room Leader / Lead EducatorEducational LeaderChildcare Centre Director / Centre Manager

Key Skills

Child development assessment and observationPlay-based curriculum design and implementationApplication of the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF)Inclusive education practices for children with diverse needsBehaviour guidance and positive relationships with children

Full Course Overview

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Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care

About This Course

Available Locations

Entry Requirements

Where this takes you

Accreditation & Migration

Units of Competency

Frequently Asked Questions

How to Apply

Hear From the Students