This programme gives learners the foundational knowledge and skills required to teach and care for children in their early years. This is an entry-level programme for those who are new to the sector.
Graduates will be able to work as entry-level carers, educators, and caregivers in a range of early childhood contexts, particularly as nannies or providing support for home-based educators and early childhood teachers in a supervised early childhood education and care setting.
Graduates may be eligible to advance on to further study in the early childhood education and care sector.
This programme leads to successful careers as a Nanny, Home-Based Educator Support, Entry-Level Early Childhood Teacher, or Playcentre Assistant.
Work opportunities
In Aotearoa New Zealand there are a range of early childhood settings such as early childhood centres, kindergartens, playgroups, kohanga reo, language nests and home-based education and care where graduates could work. Currently, the need for early childhood teachers is high in both Aotearoa New Zealand and in Australia.
High Job Prospects
As the cost of living rises, many households have both parents working full time, so need to send their children to daycare from a very young age. The government announced 20 hours of funding for three to five-year-olds in 2007, and from March 2024, this was extended to include two-year-olds as well. The government has also introduced a “Family Boost” for low to middle-income families with children under five years of age to help them manage the cost of ECE.
The subsidy means more parents are sending their children to centres, and there is more demand for services. The number of children attending licensed early childhood services increased by 6 percent from June 2022 to June 2023 and is expected to increase again in 2024 and in the coming years.
96 percent of education and care centres have opted into pay parity for teachers, with 42 percent on full pay parity, with average salaries ranging between $60,000 and $75,000.
Upon completion of our Level 5 qualification, students may be able to cross-credit into the first year of a teaching degree, and then apply for a teacher’s registration for higher pay and senior roles. See where you might sit in the pay parity scheme.
The number of teaching jobs available is high due to a shortage of teachers throughout the country. In 2023, Early Childhood had over 33,000 teaching staff, which was a three percent increase on 2022. Teaching numbers are expected to increase further in 2024.
Source: Education Counts
Applicants must be 16 years or older at the start of the programme.
No academic qualifications are required.
Applicants may be screened to ensure sufficient competence in English to complete this programme successfully.
All applicants will require a New Zealand police vetting report consistent with the requirements of the Vulnerable Children Act 2014.
Applicants will be interviewed to assess their suitability for working with infants, toddlers and young children and their motivation to study the programme.
They will be required to complete the minimum required hours of paid or volunteer work experience in a suitable early childhood setting.
All applicants must have access to a laptop or desktop computer with a camera, reliable broadband internet connection and a data plan able to support online learning.
The programme consists of four 15-credit courses. They are: Development in the Early Years, Health and Wellbeing in the Early Years, Learning Through Play, and Early Learning and Care Practice. The Early Learning and Care Practice course includes 32 hours of work experience in a suitable early childhood education and care setting.
This qualification may lead to the New Zealand Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care (Introductory Skills) (Level 3) and/or The New Zealand Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care (Level 4).
You will attend classes each week and you will also be able to ask your lecturers any questions about your assessments and learning. We also have a dedicated Student Services Team who can help you with any academic or personal issues you face during your time with us.
Will this qualification be recognised in the education sector where I will work?
Yes, this qualification is NZQA-approved and recognised by New Zealand employers.
I have so many commitments. I am concerned I may not be able to complete the programme.
Please feel free to reach out to our Student Services team and find out how you will be supported during your learning.
What is the application process?
You can find an easy step-by-step guide to applying and enrolling in a programme by clicking here.
What if I miss some classes?
You will have access to all the learning material on our learning management system, Moodle; however, every learning session is essential to your learning, and attendance is very important.
Will I be able to manage my time?
We acknowledge there may be times when it becomes difficult to juggle your priorities. If you face any struggles, our supportive lecturers and Student Services team are here to help you.
Do I need to have any computer skills?
Yes, you will need basic computer skills and a laptop to be successful in the programme.
What will my salary be if I gain this qualification?
Nannies and child care workers usually earn $23.15 per hour with the possibility of this going up to $30 per hour.
What are my job prospects like after graduating?
Demand is high for educators in early childhood centres around New Zealand. In recent years, entry to this profession has become very competitive with supply outstripping demand. The increasing focus on the value of early childhood education, and the increasing participation of women in the workforce are factors that improve job prospects for this occupation. The demand for early childhood teachers who are speakers of Māori and Pasifika languages is particularly strong. Source: Occupation Outlook, Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment.
Where can I work after graduating?
You can work in a range of early childhood settings.
Do I have to do a work placement?
Yes, it is compulsory.
I don’t have any resources for working with children.
Not a problem. During the course, you will make a variety of practical resources for fun learning activities with children.
Is there cultural support for me?
Yes, we have activities and cultural events to celebrate the many diverse ethnicities at our campuses. You are also welcome to join our Māori and Pasifika committee for students.