New Zealand Certificate in Early Childhood Education and Care (Level 4)

Gain the foundational skills and experience to begin a career as an early childhood educator. This certificate prepares you to work with young children in diverse early childhood settings by developing teaching skills and providing practical placements.

NZ$4,140

inc GST

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This course starts anytime

NZQA Level 4 Certification (60 Credits)

Study Level

Entry

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Blended study

This is a mix of online learning & face-to-face sessions

MIT Ōtara, Auckland

It will take a total of 17 weeks

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Understand child development and learning theories

Develop knowledge of learning and development theories relevant to early childhood and apply these to support children's growth.

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Implement ECE curriculum (Te Whāriki)

Learn how to use the Te Whāriki curriculum to observe, plan, review, and respond to children's learning needs.

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Work effectively in multicultural childcare settings

Gain experience collaborating in diverse early childhood education environments and build professional relationships with families and whānau.

What You're Signing Up For

The New Zealand Certificate in Early Childhood Education and Care (Level 4) is a 60-credit qualification designed as an entry pathway into early childhood education. Students gain the skills and experience required to care for and educate young children, learning educational theory, child development, and curriculum planning. The programme includes practical experience in childcare facilities and multicultural environments, making graduates job-ready for ECE centres, home-based childcare, or further study in teaching.

Course Content

  • Learning and development theories for infants, toddlers, and young children
  • Effective teaching techniques for supporting children's learning through play
  • Introduction to the Early Childhood Curriculum (Te Whāriki)
  • Observation, planning, and assessment in early childhood settings
  • Ethical practice and professional behaviour in early childhood education
  • Working with diverse cultures and forming partnerships with families and whānau
  • Practical placements or volunteering in childcare/early childhood environments

What you need to know first

Be 17 years or older at commencement

NZ Police Check (no criminal record as per Vulnerable Children Act 2014)

Face-to-face interview (or equivalent)

Signed consent for information release if requested by ECE centres

Two satisfactory referee reports

Passport-style photograph meeting NZ Passport Office standards

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What sort of industry will this job lead to

  • Education

  • Early Childhood Care

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Future employment opportunities might be

  • Early Childhood Educator (centre or home-based)

  • Teacher aide

  • Education support worker

  • Nanny