Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care

The CHC50125 Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care, delivered by the West Australian Institute of Further Studies (WAIFS) in Perth, suits those who are or wish to become a qualified educator responsible for planning, implementing and managing children's services programs in line with licensing, accreditation and duty-of-care requirements. At this level, educators supervise other staff and volunteers, and in most states it is the highest qualification required for a director or centre-manager role in centre-based care.

The qualification comprises 15 units of competency (12 core, 3 elective), covering team effectiveness, maintaining a safe and healthy environment, fostering holistic learning and creativity, facilitating regulatory compliance, inclusive practice, curriculum planning, environmental responsibility, and partnering with families.

Entry requires an existing CHC30125 (or CHC30113) Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care, or an equivalent Diploma/Certificate III plus 12 months' relevant employment. Students complete a minimum of 280 hours of supervised work-based training and mandatory National Child Safety Training. The course runs over 52 weeks (48 study weeks plus 4 weeks holiday), delivered Thursday and Friday (8:45am–5:00pm) at WAIFS' Perth campus, with monthly intakes.

Graduates may progress to further Diploma, Advanced Diploma or degree qualifications, including centre director and service manager pathways.