Graduate Diploma in Early Childhood Teaching at Laurus Higher Education: Everything You Need to Know
Become a Qualified Early Childhood Teacher in Australia in Just One Year
If you already hold a bachelor’s degree and are looking for a rewarding career in education, the Graduate Diploma in Early Childhood Teaching (GDECT) at Laurus Higher Education (LHE) could be your pathway to becoming an Early Childhood Teacher in Australia.
Completed in just one year, the course combines contemporary teaching theory with practical experience, helping you graduate ready to support children’s learning, development, and wellbeing. Here’s everything you need to know before you apply.
What will I study?
The GDECT is designed to prepare future Early Childhood Teachers with the knowledge and practical skills needed to support children’s learning from birth to five years of age.
Throughout the course, you’ll study subjects including:
- Child Development and Care
- Inclusive Practice
- Education and Curriculum Studies
- Preparing for Teaching Practice
- Professional Teaching Experience
- The Early Childhood Professional
By combining theory with practical learning, you’ll develop the confidence to plan, teach, assess learning, and create engaging educational experiences for young children.
What career opportunities does it lead to?
The GDECT is an ACECQA-accredited qualification, meaning graduates meet the academic qualification requirements to work as an Early Childhood Teacher in Australia, subject to relevant registration and employment requirements.
After graduation, you’ll be prepared to work alongside:
- Children and families
- Early Childhood Teachers
- Educational Leaders
- Service Directors
- Other professionals across the early childhood education sector
The qualification also provides a pathway to further study, including master’s degrees in education, teaching, social sciences, and related fields.
How long does it take, and how is placement structured?
The Graduate Diploma in Early Childhood Teaching is completed in 1 year full-time across three 12-week trimesters.
The course consists of 96 credit points and is delivered through a combination of on-campus and hybrid learning, providing flexibility while maintaining valuable face-to-face learning experiences.
An important part of the course is the 60-day supervised professional placement.
During your placement, you’ll gain hands-on experience working with:
- Children under three years of age
- Children aged three to five before they begin formal schooling
Before commencing placement, students are required to obtain a Working with Children Check, a National Police Check, and meet any placement-specific requirements.
Where Will I Study?
The GDECT is delivered on campus at Laurus Higher Education in the heart of Melbourne.
Campus
Level 3, 301-311 Flinders Lane
Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia
When Is the Next Intake?
The next intake commences on:
📅 28 September 2026, 01 March 2027, 14 June 2027, 27 September 2027
Applications are now open, and places are limited, so early application is recommended.
Up to AUD $4,500 Scholarship
Eligible students may receive an AUD $4,500 Scholarship, reducing the total course fee including tuition, enrolment, and course material fees.
Our Admissions Team will assess your eligibility and explain how the scholarship is applied during the admissions process.
Why Choose Laurus Higher Education?
- Complete your qualification in just one year
- ACECQA-accredited postgraduate qualification
- Flexible on-campus and hybrid learning
- 60 days of supervised professional placement
- Study in Melbourne CBD
- AUD $4,500 Scholarship available for eligible students
Ready to Start Your Teaching Journey?
If you’re ready to build a meaningful career helping young children learn and grow, the Graduate Diploma in Early Childhood Teaching at Laurus Higher Education offers the knowledge, practical experience, and industry recognition to help you succeed.
With the next intake on 28 September 2026, now is the perfect time to begin your application.
Contact our Admissions Team to discuss your eligibility, scholarship opportunities, and the next steps towards becoming an Early Childhood Teacher in Australia.
