The Suzan Johnston Organization
Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care
Nationally Recognised Vocational Education and Training (VET)Progress into leadership roles within the early childhood sector with Suzan Johnston Australia. Delivering quality education since 1959, we are trusted for our personalised support, flexible learning options, and strong employment outcomes.
Qualify for leadership roles within early learning services including:
- Diploma-qualified educator
- Room leader
- Educational leader (with experience)
- Assistant director roles
Study online
Learn at your own pace from anywhere in Australia with:
- Exceptional support from a dedicated trainer and assessor
- Regular check-ins and progress guidance
- Clear resources that are easy to follow
- Ongoing encouragement to keep you motivated and on track
Help with Work Placement
We will assist you in finding a suitable placement host, located close to your home. If you secure paid employment in a regulated child care centre, your paid hours of employment can be your practical placement hours.
Duration: Approximately 9–18 months, depending on your pace of study.
Government funding is available for eligible students in South Australia only.
Delivery mode
The Suzan Johnston Organization offers this course through the following delivery modes:
Online
Set your own study schedule and balance study with your other commitments.
Work Placement
280 hoursEntry requirements
Domestic Students
- There are no mandated entry requirements.
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.
Course fees
- SA Subsidised Training This training may be subsidised by the SA Government for eligible individuals. Places are limited.
Self-Funded Course Fee: $4,800.00 (interest-free, pay-as-you-go payment plans available in Victoria and other states)
To make fees more manageable, we offer the following 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)
Government Funded Course Fee (SA only): $700.00 (participant eligibility criteria apply)
NOTE: Government funding is available in South Australia only
Career opportunities
The Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care will prepare you for the following roles.
Centre Director
A Centre Director manages the daily operations of early childhood centres, overseeing staff, compliance, curriculum, safety, and budgets.
Th...
Childcare Worker
A Childcare Worker cares for young children in a group setting such as a childcare centre, family day care or an educational program. You’ll work w...
Early Childhood Educator
An Early Childhood Educator delivers educational programs for young children in a childcare facility. You might assist other childcare staff to cre...
Family Day Care Educator
A Family Day Care Educator runs a childcare service for children from their own home. You might deliver educational programs and organise activitie...
Lead Educator
A Lead Educator cares for young children and babies in a childcare centre. You’ll prepare educational programs and organise activities that nurture...
Early Childhood Center Manager
An Early Childhood Centre Manager oversees the daily operations of an early education facility. You might work in a childcare centre, kindergarten,...
Early Intervention Specialist
An Early Intervention Specialist supports young children with developmental delays or disabilities, helping them reach their full potential. You mi...
About The Suzan Johnston Organization
With 65 years of training experience, Suzan Johnston Australia has an enduring reputation for delivering Nationally Recognised Training of the highest standard. Graduates from our Nationally Recognised Training programs are highly regarded and actively sought after for their outstanding knowledge, skills and professionalism. Suzan Johnston Australia is the name employers know and trust, giving our graduates a definite competitive edge when pursuing employment.
Suzan Johnston Australia delivers flexible, self-paced online training designed to fit around work, family, and life commitments. Students can progress at a pace that suits them, while still receiving strong, personalised support from experienced trainers who are readily available to guide, encourage, and assist throughout the course.
