New Zealand Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care (Field-based) (Level 5)

Gain the skills and real-world experience needed for a career in early childhood education. This diploma blends classroom and hands-on field placement to prepare you for various roles in ECE settings.

NZ$8,280

inc GST

Enquire about international pricing


This course starts anytime

NZQA Level 5 Certification (120 Credits)

Study Level

Advanced

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10

Blended study

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

MIT Ōtara, Auckland

It will take a total of 1 year

Background blur gradient small

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

Unlock these abilities


Star graphic

Support education and care of young children

Provide and support the education and care of infants, toddlers, and young children in a range of early childhood contexts.

Star graphic

Apply curriculum and learning theories

Apply knowledge of early childhood teaching, learning and development theories, and implement Te Whāriki curriculum in practice.

Star graphic

Cultural competence and relationships

Demonstrate cultural competence and build inclusive and collaborative relationships respecting te ao Māori and diverse families.

What You're Signing Up For

The New Zealand Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care (Field-based) (Level 5) at Manukau Institute of Technology gives students practical knowledge and experience for work in early childhood education. The programme blends classroom study, online learning, and extensive practical placements, including up to three days a week on campus/online and two days per week in an early childhood centre. You will cover core curriculum, human development, Te Ao Māori, well-being, and professional relationships. Graduates are prepared for employment in ECE centres, home-based or culturally-based settings, and may progress to further tertiary education.

Course Content

  • Tikanga Māori and te Tiriti o Waitangi
  • Belonging, health and well-being
  • Learning and development 0-6
  • Early childhood curriculum in Aotearoa
  • Professional relationships and cultural competence
  • Practical placements in early childhood centres
  • Legislation and regulatory requirements in ECE
  • Human development and learning theories
  • Te Tiriti o Waitangi and Te Ao Māori
  • Te Whāriki curriculum principles
  • Communication and inclusive practices

What you need to know first

Under 20 years: NCEA Level 2 or equivalent.

20 years and over: relevant life and/or work experience (except for English language criteria).

New Zealand Police check (no criminal record; Vulnerable Children Act compliance).

In-person or online interview.

Two satisfactory referee reports.

Photo meeting New Zealand passport requirements.

Industry icon

What sort of industry will this job lead to

  • Early Childhood Education

  • Education

Employment opportunities icon

Future employment opportunities might be

  • Centre-based ECE educator

  • Hospital-based play specialist assistant

  • Home-based childcare provider

  • Nanny

  • Parent-led or culturally-based (Pasifika/Māori) context support

  • ECE supervisor or team leader (some settings)

  • ECE volunteer roles