Southern Cross University

What you'll study

This diploma delivers core applied knowledge and classroom-ready skills across contemporary education practice. You will study foundations of learning and development, curriculum and lesson planning, assessment and reporting, behaviour guidance and classroom management, and inclusive education practices for learners with diverse needs. Practical units typically cover communication with families and the community, digital technologies in the classroom, and legal and professional responsibilities for working with children and young people.

The course includes supervised professional experience (practicum) in an early childhood or school setting so you apply theory to day-to-day practice. Units are structured around competency-based outcomes and focus on real classroom tasks such as preparing learning resources, supporting small-group instruction, assisting with assessment activities and implementing behaviour support strategies.

Entry requirements

• Academic: completion of secondary school (Year 12 or equivalent) or a relevant Certificate IV; mature-age entry options may be available depending on prior learning and experience.
• English proficiency: applicants whose prior study was not in English will need to demonstrate functional English language skills consistent with working in Australian schools.
• Practical requirements: a clear Working with Children/Police check and evidence of required immunisations are typically mandatory for placement in education settings.
• Other: a resume outlining relevant experience and at least one referee (often from a workplace or community organisation) may be requested; selection can be influenced by availability for placement and suitability to work with children.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for roles that support teaching and learning across early childhood centres, primary and secondary schools and community education programs. Common positions include teacher aide/education support worker, early childhood educator assistant, classroom support assistant for students with additional needs, and school administrative or community learning support roles. The diploma also serves as a pathway into bachelor-level teacher education or specialised training in special needs education and early childhood teaching for those who wish to become fully qualified teachers.

Why study at Southern Cross University

• Regional focus: Southern Cross has campuses and strong community links in regional and coastal areas, offering practical placement opportunities in a variety of school and early childhood settings.
• Applied learning: the program emphasises hands-on, workplace-relevant training and supervised practicum so graduates gain real classroom experience before entering the workforce.
• Student support: small cohort sizes, academic support services and career guidance help students transition from study to employment or further teacher education.
• Pathways: the Diploma provides a recognised vocational qualification with clear pathways into higher education and specialised teacher training for students wanting to continue to bachelor degrees.
• Community and Indigenous engagement: curriculum and placements reflect the university’s commitment to serving diverse regional communities, including Indigenous perspectives in education practice.