New Zealand Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care (Field-based) (Level 5)
Teaching
A course by
Manukau Institute of Technology
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.
Blended study
This is a mix of online learning & face-to-face sessions
MIT Ōtara, Auckland
It will take a total of 1 year


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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.

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

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.

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

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


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