New Zealand Certificate in Early Childhood Education and Care (Level 4)
Teaching
A course by
Manukau Institute of Technology
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.
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.

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

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

What sort of industry will this job lead to
Education
Early Childhood Care

Future employment opportunities might be
Early Childhood Educator (centre or home-based)
Teacher aide
Education support worker
Nanny


Coming Soon: Nexties Explorer
Our AI-powered Explorer is almost ready. Soon, you’ll be able to build a dynamic profile of your skills, goals, and strengths, and get a curated selection of courses just for you.
More details