Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care

CHC50125 is a nationally accredited qualification that provides advanced knowledge and leadership skills for working in the early childhood education and care sector. The course includes a minimum of 280 hours of practical placement, giving students extensive hands-on experience in real early childhood environments. 

Note – These 280 hours may be applied collectively across all units of competency that include a requirement for workplace hours.

Delivered over 12 months through a flexible online learning model, students can access learning resources 24/7 and participate in monthly trainer-led Zoom sessions to engage with content, ask questions, and take part in guided learning activities. Students also receive monthly contact from a dedicated trainer via Zoom, phone, or email, with optional one-on-one support and group catch-up sessions to reinforce learning and maintain peer connection.

To achieve competency, students must complete all assessments and successfully fulfil the 280 practical placement hours. Upon completion, students will be awarded a Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care.

Training and assessment is delivered by Industry Graduates under a registered third-party agreement, with iTFE as the issuing RTO.

Total number of units = 15

• 12 core units
• 3 elective units

As part of CHC50125, students are required to complete a minimum of 280 hours of practical placement in early childhood education settings. These hours may be applied collectively across all units of competency that require workplace experience.

The placement structure includes six consecutive days of work placement every three months, allowing students to complete the required assessment tasks progressively. Over the duration of the qualification, students will undertake six separate placements, providing exposure to a variety of early childhood environments and experiences.

The RTO is responsible for arranging and approving all placements, ensuring students are matched with suitable services. The RTO will also conduct site visits during placements to monitor progress, provide guidance, and ensure the learning experience meets course requirements.

Students’ performance during placements will be assessed through a combination of workplace supervisor reports and face-to-face assessments with their trainer, providing comprehensive feedback and support to ensure competency is achieved.

These placements give students the opportunity to apply their knowledge, develop leadership skills, and gain practical experience in real-world settings, while being supported and assessed by both the workplace and the RTO.

Upon completion of this qualification, graduates may work in a variety of leadership and senior roles in early childhood education and care, including:

• Room Leader / Lead Educator
• Early Childhood Educational Leader
• Early Childhood Centre Director
• Kindergarten Coordinator
• Family Day Care Supervisor

This course is designed to equip students with advanced skills, knowledge, and leadership capabilities relevant to the early childhood education and care sector. Upon successful completion, graduates will hold a nationally recognised qualification and will be prepared to pursue roles that involve supporting learning programs and contributing to team leadership within an early childhood service.

This course is nationally accredited as CHC50125 – Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care, recognised across Australia. It meets the requirements for working in early childhood education and care services and is aligned with the Education and Care Services National Regulations and the National Quality Standard.

Fees: For detailed information on course fees, please connect with the friendly team. You can also visit the iTFE website for up-to-date funding and fee information: https://www.itfe.edu.au/funding-eligibility-and-fees/

Please feel free to call 1300 457 652 to discuss the course options and fees that best suit your educational journey. The team is dedicated to providing all the necessary information to help you make an informed decision about your future.

Students wishing to enrol in CHC50125 must meet the following entry requirements:

Option 1 – Direct Entry:
Individuals who hold either:

• CHC30121 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care, or

• CHC30113 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care
  may enter the Diploma directly.

Option 2 – Alternative Pathway:
This pathway requires individuals to demonstrate at least 12 months cumulative employment in an early childhood setting. It applies to those who hold:

• An Australian Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care, or

• An Australian Diploma or Certificate III in Children’s Services, or

• Are seeking entry via CHCSS00147 – Entry into Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care.

Training and assessment for this course are conducted in English, and some assessment tasks are completed using a computer and the internet.

Age Requirement:
Students must be 15 years of age or older to enrol in this course.

Language, Literacy and Numeracy (LLN) Assessment:
All students are required to complete an LLN assessment prior to commencing the course to ensure they have the skills necessary to participate fully in learning and assessment activities.

Additional Requirements:

• All students must hold a valid Police and Working with Children checks prior to enrolment.

• Students must have a Unique Student Identifier (USI).

Computer and Internet Requirements

This course is delivered online, so students need access to a desktop or laptop computer (a tablet or smartphone is not recommended) and a reliable internet connection. Most modern laptops or desktops will meet these requirements.

Students will also need:

• Webcam and microphone – built-in on most laptops, required for online classes, Zoom sessions, and trainer check-ins.

• Speakers or headphones – to listen clearly to videos, lessons, and online activities.

• Printer/scanner – only required if you choose to complete assessments by hand; all assessments are also available online.

• Software:

  • A modern web browser such as Google Chrome or Firefox.

  • Basic software to create documents, spreadsheets, and presentations (Microsoft Office or free alternatives like Google Docs).

  • A PDF reader (like Adobe Reader) to view course materials.

Internet Connection: A stable broadband connection is required to stream videos, participate in live Zoom sessions, and access online learning materials. A speed of at least 1.5–10 Mbps download and 1–2.5 Mbps upload is recommended for smooth participation.

Most students with a laptop purchased in the last few years and a standard home internet connection will already have everything needed to participate.