Kick start your diploma of early childhood career today.
The CHC50125 Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is a highly sought-after qualification designed to provide graduates with the skills and knowledge to become a lead educator in the delivery of early childhood education programs in various child care settings.
This program includes management competencies that will equip graduates with the knowledge and confidence to meet the daily challenges of working within the early childhood sector and the ability to lead and mentor other staff and volunteers.
Call us at 1300 799 610 to talk to us about our child care courses and how to begin or advance your early childcare diploma in the rewarding child care industry!
Course code
CHC50125
Qualification
Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care
Course units
15 units (12 core and 3 electives)
Duration
12 months
Delivery modes
Workplace
Placement hours
280 hours (2 days per week, 7.5 hour days) in a long day care environment that we can help you organise. For workplace learners, practical placement hours for diploma of early childhood education can be scheduled during usual working hours.
Government funding & fees
VIC
Make an enquiry
Interested in a fulfilling career working with children? Our consultants are here to help you get started. Fill out the form to learn more about entry requirements, fees, learning options, and how to enrol.
Testimonials

“I recently graduated from Practical Outcomes, and I am incredibly grateful for the experience. The program has equipped me with both the theoretical knowledge and practical skills I need to excel in my chosen field. The hands-on approach of the course truly set me up for success, allowing me to apply what I learned in real-world settings.”
“My trainer, Angela, was fantastic. She brought a wealth of knowledge, patience, and genuine support throughout the entire course. Angela’s teaching style was engaging, and she made sure I fully understood the material before moving on to more advanced topics. Her constructive feedback and encouragement helped me stay motivated and focused, and I always felt confident asking questions or seeking clarification when needed.”
“I feel well-prepared to continue into my career now that I’ve graduated, and I couldn’t have asked for a better learning experience. I highly recommend Practical Outcomes to anyone looking to develop their skills and pursue a career with the confidence and competence that comes from quality education.”
“Thank you to Angela and the entire team at Practical Outcomes for helping me achieve my goals.”
Course Units
To obtain the CHC50125 Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care, candidates must complete a total of 15 units, consisting of 12 core units and 3 elective units, covering skills and knowledge that include:
Core units
CHCECE046 Implement strategies for the inclusion of all children
CHCECE050 Work in partnership with children’s families
CHCECE045 Foster positive and respectful interactions and behaviour in children
CHCECE041 Maintain a safe and healthy environment for children
CHCECE049 Embed environmental responsibility in service operations
CHCECE042 Foster holistic early childhood learning, development and wellbeing
CHCECE043 Nurture creativity in children
CHCECE047 Analyse information to inform children’s learning
CHCECE048 Plan and implement children’s education and care curriculum
CHCECE044 Facilitate compliance in a children’s education and care service
BSBSTR501 Establish innovative work environments
BSBTWK502 Manage team effectiveness
CHCPRP003 Reflect on and improve own professional practice
Elective units
BSBSTR501 Establish innovative work environments
BSBPEF502 Develop and use emotional intelligence
CHCPOL003 Research and apply evidence to practice
Course entry requirements
To qualify for the CHC50125 Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care, students must hold (one of the following):
-
- Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CHC30113 or CHC30121)
- Australian Certificate III in Children Services AND demonstrate at least 12 months of cumulative employment (full-time equivalent) within the last 5 years in a regulated education and care service in Australia, supported by verifiable evidence.
- CHCSS00147 Entry into Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care.
Standard student applicants must complete the following to determine suitability:
- Your Language Literacy and Numeracy (LLN) skills must meet required standards for ACSF LEVEL 3.
- Access to a computer and internet.
- Must be physically able to meet the demands of the practicum requirements.
- You need to either provide a current Working With Children Check (WWCC) or provide evidence that you have applied for a WWCC.
- If you are unable to obtain a WWCC you will not be able to complete the requirements of the course.
- Evidence of COVID-19 vaccinations may be required by a service to undertake your practical placement.*
- Offered exclusively in the workplace.
*While not a Government public health mandate, individual services have the choice to require evidence of vaccination against COVID-19 and other illnesses. Depending on the service you attend and their vaccination policy, this may affect your ability to undertake practical placement. Practical Outcomes has no authority over the decisions made by individual services and cannot warrant you will be able to be placed elsewhere if you are unable to attend an early childhood service because of your vaccination status and will not be responsible for any impact which this may cause on your ability to complete your course requirements.
Program delivery and assessment
Offered exclusively in the workplace, you can study to suit your life commitments via our interactive online portal.
Assessment methods include: Readings, research and reflection tasks, knowledge questions, projects, workplace/placement assessments and observations.
Course placement hours
This CHC50125 program requires a minimum of 280 hours to be logged in at least one education and care service. Learn more about our practical placement.
Your dedicated course trainer and assessor
You will be provided with a qualified diploma of early childhood trainer and workplace/placement coach who will support you throughout your entire learning journey. Your trainer will provide you with individualised feedback on all your assessments and support you every step of the way. As well as face-to-face visits, for extra support, your trainer is available to help via phone or email too.
Child care course fees and funding
For information on fees, government funding and payment options please click here.
Career outcomes
Early childhood careers are thriving in Victoria, driven by the rollout of early childcare programs. This expansion has led to a surge in demand for early childhood professionals, a diploma of early childhood education and care could advance you to roles that include:
- Room leader/Lead educator
- Early childhood educator
- Family day care educator
- Kindergarten early childhood educator
- Nanny /in home carer
- Assistant director
- Centre director
Further education pathways
- CHC50221 Diploma of School Age Education and Care
- CHC62015 Advanced Diploma of Community Sector Management
FAQs
What is the CHC50125 Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care?
The CHC50125 Diploma is a nationally recognised qualification in Australia that prepares you for advanced roles in early childhood education. It focuses on developing skills to plan, implement, and manage education and care programs for children from birth to school age.
Who is this course suitable for?
This diploma is ideal for individuals who already hold one of the following:
- Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CHC30113 or CHC30121)
- Australian Certificate III in Children Services AND demonstrate at least 12 months of cumulative employment (full-time equivalent) within the last 5 years in a regulated education and care service in Australia, supported by verifiable evidence.
- CHCSS00147 Entry into Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care.
It’s also suited for those aiming to become room leaders, centre directors, or early childhood educators with leadership responsibilities.
Do I need to have completed a Certificate III to enrol?
To enrol in this qualification, you must hold (one of the following):
- Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (CHC30113 or CHC30121)
- Australian Certificate III in Children Services AND demonstrate at least 12 months of cumulative employment (full-time equivalent) within the last 5 years in a regulated education and care service in Australia, supported by verifiable evidence.
- CHCSS00147 Entry into Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care.
How long does the diploma take to complete?
Course duration can vary depending on your chosen delivery mode (online or blended) and whether you study full-time or part-time. Typically, the course can be completed in 12–24 months.
Is there practical placement involved?
Yes. As part of this course, you’ll need to complete a minimum of 280 hours of practical placement in a registered early childhood education and care service. This hands-on experience is essential for developing real-world skills and meeting competency requirements.
What career opportunities can this qualification lead to?
Graduates can pursue roles such as:
- Lead Educator or Room Leader
- Centre Manager or Director
- Early Childhood Educator
- Family Day Care Coordinator
Can I study this course online?
Yes. Practical Outcomes offers flexible online and blended learning options, supported by experienced trainers and real-time support. This allows you to balance your study with work or family commitments.
What support do students receive throughout the course?
At Practical Outcomes, you’ll receive personalised support from dedicated trainers, access to online learning resources, and guidance throughout your practical placement to ensure your success.
Is this diploma nationally recognised?
Yes. The CHC50125 Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is a nationally recognised qualification under the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF).
How do I enrol in the diploma course?
You can apply directly through the Practical Outcomes website or get in touch with the student support team to discuss your eligibility, learning goals, and the best delivery option for you.
Most Similar Courses
Learn the fundamentals of early childhood development, education and care. Gain the skills, knowledge and experience to support the health, safety and development of children. This qualification is offered in the workplace or by distance with dedicated trainer support.
Gain the skills and knowledge to take responsibility for the overall planning, implementation and management of a school age education and care program. This qualification is offered in the workplace with dedicated trainer support!
