Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care

About this programme

The CHC50125 Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care in Melbourne at WMIT is a nationally recognised AQF Level 5 qualification that prepares you for leadership roles in regulated early childhood education and care services across Australia. CRICOS-registered under code 118643G and delivered face-to-face at WMIT’s Melbourne CBD campus, this childcare diploma in Melbourne is fully approved for international students studying on an Australian Student Visa. It is the direct progression from the CHC30121 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care — also offered at WMIT — giving students a seamless, supported pathway from entry-level educator to qualified lead professional within the same institution. This Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care in Melbourne reflects the role of early childhood educators who are responsible for designing and implementing curriculum in regulated education and care services. Graduates work under the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) — Australia’s approved learning framework for children from birth to five years — within the requirements of the Education and Care Services National Regulations and the National Quality Standards (NQS). These are the exact standards set by ACECQA (Australian Children’s Education and Care Quality Authority) — the national body that governs childcare qualifications across Australia. Students in this diploma of childcare course in Melbourne develop advanced competencies across curriculum design, child development theory, family and community engagement, team leadership, and reflective practice. A mandatory 280-hour supervised work placement in a regulated Australian childcare centre is embedded across the programme, ensuring graduates enter the workforce with genuine, employer-ready practical experience. WMIT coordinates placement in approved Melbourne childcare centres, with WMIT trainer/assessors conducting formal site visits throughout the placement period. The CHC50125 Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care Melbourne opens doors to a range of leadership roles in Melbourne’s rapidly growing childcare sector — including Room Leader, Lead Educator, Educational Leader, and Nominated Supervisor. These positions carry significantly higher earning potential than Certificate III-level roles, with higher salaries in Melbourne depending on the role and centre type. Early childhood educators also hold one of Australia’s most accessible Permanent Residency (PR) pathways — with Early Childhood Teachers and qualified educators listed on the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL), supporting eligibility for skilled migration visas including subclasses 189, 190, and 491.