Academy Introduction to Early Childhood
Teaching
A course by
UCOL
A Level 2 programme designed for secondary school learners interested in a career in early childhood education, providing foundational skills and introductory knowledge of children's learning and development with practical experience and NCEA credits.
In-person study
Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting
Available in 3 locations
It will take a total of 30 weeks
This course requires 6 hours per week
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Knowledge of children's basic needs and nutrition
Understand and demonstrate knowledge of the foundational needs and nutrition that support holistic well-being and development of young children.
Hygiene and safety practices
Describe and apply personal and environmental hygiene and safety protocols relevant to caring for young children.
Care practices for infants and toddlers
Demonstrate appropriate care techniques and practices for infants and toddlers in early childhood settings.
What You're Signing Up For
The UCOL Academy Introduction to Early Childhood Programme is a Level 2 course that provides secondary school learners an introduction to the field of early childhood education. It offers foundational skills and knowledge in child development, nutrition, hygiene, safety, and play, enabling students to contribute in entry-level roles such as carers in early childhood centres or home-based childcare. The course consists of 22 credits and is delivered on Fridays from February to September 2026 at UCOL campuses in Palmerston North, Whanganui, and Wairarapa. It is fees-free for eligible domestic students and supports progression to further study at Level 4 and 5 qualifications in early childhood education.
Course Content
- Unit Standard 29852 (Level 2) - Basic needs and nutrition supporting young children's well-being and development (4 credits)
- Unit Standard 29854 (Level 2) - Personal and environmental hygiene and safety practices for young children (2 credits)
- Unit Standard 29856 (Level 2) - Care practices for infants and toddlers (2 credits)
- Unit Standard 29857 (Level 2) - Values and beliefs informing personal approach to learning and care of young children (5 credits)
- Unit Standard 29858 (Level 2) - Value of play experiences for child's development and learning (5 credits)
- Unit Standard 29859 (Level 2) - Values and beliefs informing personal approach to learning and care of young children (5 credits)
What you need to know first
Year 11 - 13 secondary school learner
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Early Childhood Education
Future employment opportunities might be
Early childhood centres entry-level carer
Home-based childcare assistant
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