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CHC50125 Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care

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At Suzan Johnston Australia we are totally committed to producing the highest calibre of Childcare Educators – quality graduates that are dedicated and capable of providing the best possible standard of care for children, and who also have the potential and confidence to be future leaders and mentors to others within the industry.

CAREER OUTCOMES

The CHC50125 Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care will qualify you with a number of career options including:

  • Child care educator in a childcare centre
  • Child care educator in a kindergarten/pre-school
  • Centre manager/director
  • Authorised supervisor
  • Group/team coordinator/leader
  • Program leader
  • Owner – childcare centre or family day care
  • Manager – before/after school hours care program
  • Professional nanny within Australia or overseas
  • Play group supervisor
  • Agency relief staff/mobile educator
  • Educator within occasional care.

COURSE CONTENT

Our CHC50125 Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is a highly comprehensive course, designed to build your existing skills and knowledge to an advanced level.

This course consists of 15 units of competency, which are delivered through a uniquely flexible, professional and highly supportive learning environment.

NEW! ENTRY REQUIREMENTS for CHC50125 Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care.

Entry into the Diploma is open to Individuals who hold a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (with a Course Code of CHC30125, CHC30121 or CHC30113).

Alternatively, individuals who hold an Australian Certificate III in Children’s Services can also enrol if they have either:

  • 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 OR;
  • The Skill Set CHCSS00147 Entry into Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care.

The required Skill Set CHCSS00147 – Entry into Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is now available at Suzan Johnston Australia.

For more information on the required Skill Set
CLICK HERE
TRAIN WITH THE BEST!

Suzan Johnston Australia celebrates 66 years of training excellence that Australia’s Child Care Sector knows and trusts. Let us open doors for you to employment opportunities within this high-growth industry.

During 2025 100% of our CHC50125 Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care graduates were successful in securing employment in children’s services roles!

2025 STUDENT OUTCOMES & FEEDBACK – WHAT OUR DIPLOMA GRADUATES ARE SAYING ABOUT US

100% were employed in early childhood roles DURING the course

100% would recommend the training organisation

100% said the training prepared them well for work

100% said they were satisfied with the training provided

100% said trainers had an excellent knowledge of the subject content

100% said the training was flexible enough to meet their needs

Common Questions

Course Duration & Study Mode

MODE OF STUDY: ONLINE, SELF-PACED DELIVERY

Study the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care  from home!

Duration: Between 9 – 18 Months

Our Self-Paced, Online Childcare Course is delivered via:

  • Listening to pre-recorded Zoom Classes (at a time that suits you)
  • Working through the learning and assessment activities at your own pace
  • Email and/or telephone support as required (with your allocated trainer)
  • Attending Zoom support sessions with your trainer (as required)
  • Regular workplace visits and assessments (by your allocated trainer)
  • Attending regular practical placement or paid employment (minimum 280 hours)

You control the speed in which you complete the course (it can go as slowly or quickly as you wish) and you can schedule breaks into the course schedule too. It is super flexible.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION: 

  • You will also need to complete a MINIMUM of 280 hours of practical placement (placement is usually scheduled one day per week or in regular blocks).
  • If you are already employed as an educator within the industry you can contribute any paid hours of employment towards meeting the practical placement requirements.
  • If you are not already employed as an educator, we will assist you in finding a suitable placement host; located close to your home

Fees, Government Funding & Enrolment Information

2026 STANDARD COURSE FEES 

For a short time, we will be offering this qualification at a hugely discounted price:

Was $6,500.00   Now $4,800.00

To make fees more manageable, we offer the following interest-free, pay-as-you-go, payment plan:

  • $880.00 deposit upon enrolment (this includes a booking fee plus payment for your first unit)
  • $280.00 per unit for each of the remaining 14 units (payable when you commence each new unit)

This flexible payment structure allows you to spread the cost of your studies over the duration of your course.

Even better, we understand that life can get busy. That’s why you can pause both your studies and your payments at any time  whether you’re going on holiday, need a short break, or have other personal commitments. When you’re ready, simply pick up where you left off.

GOVERNMENT FUNDED TRAINING – FOR SOUTH AUSTRALIAN RESIDENTS

Self-Funded Course Fee $4,800.00 payable in instalments
Government Funded Course Fee (with or without Concession) $700.00 (participant eligibility criteria apply)
Additional Charges & Incidental Fees Nil

 

South Australia Government

 

UPDATE ON GOVERNMENT-FUNDED TRAINING IN VICTORIA (Skills First)

From 2026, our Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care will no longer be subsidised for new enrolments under Skills First Government Funding due to the Victorian Government’s policy changes for 2026, which remove early childhood training from funding priority in Victoria. This decision relates solely to government funding priorities and does not reflect our organisation, compliance record, training quality, or student outcomes. These funding reductions are expected to place significant pressure on an already stretched early childhood education and care sector, which is experiencing workforce shortages and ongoing challenges in meeting educator-to-child ratios.

In response, we will continue to advocate for this decision to be reversed. In the meantime, we are offering self-funded enrolments with reduced course fees and a flexible pay-as-you-go payment option to support students and the needs of the early childhood sector.

 

COURSE COMMENCEMENT DATES & ENROLMENT

If you would like to receive details on our forthcoming commencement dates, our enrolment procedures and/or if you would like clarification on your eligibility for Government Funding; please contact us and we will send the required information to you promptly. Our team is here and you are welcome to give us a call on 03 9654 0999.

Units of Study & Employment Outcomes

Our CHC50125 Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care course includes highly interactive and supported online training in a wide range of subjects (a total of 15 Units of Competency).

The content of our CHC50125 Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care has been carefully developed with extensive industry input, ensuring graduates are all multi-skilled, meet/exceed current industry expectations and are extremely employable within the early childhood sector.

UNITS OF COMPETENCY – CHC50125 Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care

Core Units
BSBTWK502 Manage team effectiveness
CHCECE041 Maintain a safe and healthy environment for children
CHCECE042 Foster holistic early childhood learning, development and wellbeing
CHCECE043 Nurture creativity in children
CHCECE044 Facilitate compliance in a children’s education and care service
CHCECE045 Foster positive and respectful interactions and behaviour in children
CHCECE046 Implement strategies for the inclusion of all children
CHCECE047 Analyse information to inform children’s learning
CHCECE048 Plan and implement children’s education and care curriculum
CHCECE049 Embed environmental responsibility in service operations
CHCECE050 Work in partnership with children’s families
CHCPRP003 Reflect on and improve own professional practice
Elective Units
CHCDIV003 Manage and promote diversity
CHCMGT003 Lead the work team
CHCECE053 Respond to grievances and complaints about the service

EMPLOYMENT OUTCOMES

The children’s services industry continues to experience enormous growth. For decades we have taken pride in the excellent job placement results graduates from our prestigious childcare course have achieved.

As part of your childcare course, you will be introduced to industry employers and leading employment agencies, who not only endorse our childcare courses but also actively assist our students in finding suitable employment. Additionally, the contacts that you will make during your practical placement can often lead to a permanent job, with the majority of our students gaining employment with their placement host well BEFORE the completion of their childcare studies.

During 2025 100% of our CHC50125 Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care graduates were successful in securing employment in children’s services roles!

Diploma in Early Childhood Education

STUDY PATHWAYS FOR GRADUATES

Studying the CHC50125 Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care can be a great stepping stone towards gaining a university qualification. Once you have achieved the Diploma qualification, you may be eligible to further your studies by obtaining recognition/credit transfer into one of the following Bachelor’s Degrees:

  • Bachelor of Early Childhood Education
  • Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood and Primary)
Practical Placement & the Learning Environment

PRACTICAL PLACEMENT

Our diploma in childcare will include extensive ‘real life’ practical placement within the children’s services industry. It is a requirement that all CHC50125 Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care students complete a MINIMUM of 280 hours of practical placement within a regulated child care service.

Your trainers will assist you to find a suitable placement host (close to your home) and will also be available to offer you continued support and encouragement whilst you complete this practical component. We will also visit you at your placement site to assess your practical skills and provide you with any additional support and mentoring where required.

Practical Placement is often unpaid; however, it can often open the doors to a paid position within the centre; enabling you to ‘earn as you learn’ – which is very exciting!

Note: In 2024 & 2025, 100% of our early childhood course students were in paid employment during their course – often as a direct result of their Practical Placement experience.

If you are currently employed within a regulated child care service, you can complete your placement hours in your place of employment (whilst getting paid!).

Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care

TRAINERS/DELIVERY METHODS

Learn from experienced early childhood professionals.

Suzan Johnston Australia is a boutique training provider specialising in flexible, professional, and highly personalised childcare training. Our supportive learning environment ensures every student receives individual attention and feels confident throughout their studies.

All training is delivered through our online, self-paced learning model, guided by expert trainers who are passionate early childhood educators with extensive industry experience. While you study independently, you are never on your own – our trainers provide ongoing guidance, feedback, and support as you progress through each unit.

You’ll be supported throughout your learning journey by dedicated trainers and mentors who are committed to helping you succeed, from enrolment through to completion.

People with disabilities are encouraged to apply. 

Our Accreditation & More Information

ACCREDITATION AND RECOGNITION OF YOUR TRAINING

The Suzan Johnston Organization (Aust.) is a Registered Training Organisation (RTO Number 0170).

Suzan Johnston Australia is accredited with the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA). ASQA is the national regulator for Australia’s vocational education and training sector. ASQA regulates courses and training providers to ensure nationally approved quality standards are met.

Suzan Johnston Australia is approved to deliver the following Nationally Recognised Early Childhood Qualifications under the Australian Qualifications Framework:

  • CHC30125 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care
  • CHC50125 Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care
  • Skill Set – CHCSS00147 Entry to Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care

All registered training providers (RTOs) across Australia will automatically recognise the above early childhood qualifications issued by Suzan Johnston Australia through the process of national recognition.

Nationally Recognised TrainingAustralian Government Australian Skills Quality Authority

 

STUDENT & INDUSTRY FEEDBACK 2025

RTOs are required to collect and use data on quality indicators, which have been endorsed by the National Quality Council (NQC). The findings for 2025 for Suzan Johnston Australia are outlined in the report below:

Click Here for a copy of the Registering Body Report (2025 Learner Engagement & Employer Satisfaction)

SUZAN JOHNSTON POLICIES & STUDENT HANDBOOKS

Suzan Johnston Australia has a range of policies and procedures in place to ensure that people from a wide range of backgrounds have an opportunity to study with us. We provide opportunities for everyone to access and participate in learning and to achieve learning outcomes in a safe and positive learning environment. Policies and procedures not only outline the rights and responsibilities of students but also Suzan Johnston Australia’s responsibilities to students.

All our policies and procedures are detailed in our comprehensive Student Handbook.

VICTORIAN STUDENT HANDBOOK – CHC50125 Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care
DOWNLOAD NOW
SOUTH AUSTRALIAN STUDENT HANDBOOK – CHC50125 Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care
DOWNLOAD NOW

 

Frequently Asked Questions

How flexible is your online self-paced childcare course?

Our online childcare courses are designed to be genuinely flexible, allowing you to study at a time and pace that suits your lifestyle.

With our self-paced delivery model, you control how quickly or gradually you progress through the course. Once you complete a unit of competency, the next unit is released, allowing you to move forward step by step without pressure or fixed deadlines.

You can study when it suits you, fit learning around work and family commitments, and access ongoing trainer support as you progress. This approach ensures you receive the guidance you need while maintaining the flexibility to complete your qualification in a way that works for you.

How does the Self-Paced Online diploma in childcare work?

Our self-paced online course is designed to give you maximum flexibility while still providing ongoing trainer interaction and support. This delivery mode includes:

  • Access to pre-recorded Zoom classes, which you can watch at a time that suits you

  • Completion of learning and assessment activities at your own pace

  • Email and telephone support from your allocated trainer, whenever required

  • Optional Zoom support sessions with your trainer, if and when needed

With our self-paced delivery model, you control the speed at which you complete this child care qualification. There is no minimum or maximum course duration, allowing you to progress in a way that fits around your work, family, and other commitments.

Am I eligible for Government Funded Training?

To be eligible for Government Subsidised Training in 2026, you must:

  1. Be either an Australian, New Zealand Citizen or a Permanent Resident
  2. Live or work in South Australia

Contact one of our consultants to see if you qualify for Government Funded Training in 2026.

Do I need any additional equipment to study the Diploma in childcare online?

Importantly, you won’t need any additional equipment other than your home computer/laptop and of course access to the internet (earphones are optional).

Are there any additional course requirements and/or charges?

Prior to commencing practical placement (and  employment in a child care service), anyone studying early childhood MUST hold the following:

  1. Working with Children Check (approx $68.75)
  2. Foundations of Child Safety (GECCKO) – Free online course
  3. Responding to Risks of Harm, Abuse and Neglect Training (RRHAN) – Free online course but ONLY required in South Australia.

Do I need to complete the Certificate III in Early Childhood before I enrol in the Diploma of Early Childhood?

There are new entry requirements for the CHC50125 Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care. This course is now open to Individuals who hold one of the following:

  • CHC30121 /CHC30125 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care, or
  • CHC30113 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care.

Alternatively, individuals who hold an Australian Certificate III in Children’s Services can also enrol if they have either:

  1. 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 OR;
  2. The Skill Set CHCSS00147 Entry into Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care.

The required Skill Set CHCSS00147 – Entry into Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is now available at Suzan Johnston Australia.

Will I need to buy textbooks during my diploma of childcare course?

No. All learning materials and online resources are provided and included in your course fees.

Will I need to arrange my own Practical Placement during my diploma in childcare course?

Practical Placement is an important and mandatory component of all childcare courses. Accordingly, we will assist you in finding and coordinating your practical placement. Over the past 32 years Suzan Johnston Australia has forged strong relationships within the children’s services industry and we have a network of childcare centres who regularly (and very happily) host our students’ practical placements.

I’m currently working in an early childhood service, how does practical placement work? Can I do all 280 hours of placement in my current centre/room?

This ECEC training package requires that your Practical Placement be completed within approved child care centres that are regulated by the National Quality Framework (NQF).

Regulated child care services can include:

  • long day care
  • family day care
  • preschool/kindergarten
  • and outside school hours care services.

So yes, if you are already employed as an educator (within a regulated child care service) your paid hours of employment can be used towards meeting all the practical placement requirements of the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care qualification – making things nice and easy!

Can I gain employment whilst I’m completing the Diploma of Early Childhood Course?

Our reputation and our success in producing quality and well-trained diploma educators is second to none. As a result, the majority of our childcare students are able to gain ongoing part-time or casual employment as a result of their practical placement (whilst they are still completing their studies). Any paid hours of employment can be contributed towards meeting the practical placement requirements of the childcare diploma.

Does the diploma of childcare course include exams?

Our childcare courses do not include any scary or stressful exams. Assessments generally involve completing a range of relevant and interesting exercises/activities. You will also be observed and assessed performing your duties within the workplace (during your practical placement).

What are the career opportunities for students who graduate with a Suzan Johnston diploma in childcare?

Based on our industry feedback, it is anticipated that the childcare industry will continue to experience enormous and unprecedented growth and expansion in 2026 and beyond. Accordingly, industry demand for quality educators (who hold a Diploma of Early Childhood qualification) will continue to exceed supply.

Our CH50125 Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care has been designed to empower learners with the highest calibre of skills and knowledge. With our highly respected qualification, our diploma graduates can gain employment in a wide variety of roles including Childcare Educator (within either a childcare centre or kindergarten) through to roles as a Centre Manager/Director/Owner.

Am I eligible to enrol in a government-funded childcare course?

Our CHC50125 Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care is approved for government funding in South Australia only, subject to eligibility criteria.
To find out if you are eligible for a government-subsidised childcare course, speak to one of our course consultants. They will be able to clarify this with you over the phone – it will only take a minute!

What study pathways are available to me after I finish the CHC50125 Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care?

Should you decide to further your studies after completing the Diploma of Early Childhood, you may transition to a higher-level childcare qualification with credits into a Bachelor’s degree at university.

How do I enrol in the CHC50125 Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care?

If you would like to proceed with your enrolment in our CHC50125 Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care, please contact us on 9654 0999 so the relevant Online Enrolment Package can be forwarded to you.

Why choose Suzan Johnston Australia?

Trusted. Supportive. Proven.

Established in 1959
One of Australia’s most respected training organisations, with decades of experience delivering quality education.

Nationally Recognised Childcare Qualifications
Delivering accredited early childhood education and care training since 1994.

Flexible, Self-Paced Online Learning
Study from home, at a time and pace that suits you – no fixed class times.

Ongoing Trainer Support
Dedicated, experienced trainers support you from enrolment through to completion – every step of the way.

Personalised, Student-Centred Approach
Your individual learning needs are respected and supported throughout your course.

Highly Regarded by Employers
Our childcare graduates are known as confident, capable professionals and are actively sought after across Australia.

Strong Employment Outcomes
In 2024 & 2025, 100% of our Diploma of Early Childhood course graduates were successful in finding employment during their course (before their graduation)!

Testimonials

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Address: Level 27, 101 Collins Street,
Melbourne VIC 3000 Australia