This highly accessible, engaging and creative online programme will give you the pre-requisite skills, aptitude and knowledge to become a competent Early Childhood Kaiako for both work in Child Care Centres or in the community. This will be ideal if you are thinking of entering the ECE industry with no previous experience, are already working in the sector, or you are currently a home-based educator needing to become qualified at Level 4. This course also offers benefits in its online approach by helping you develop technology, self-motivation and academic referencing skills.
In the last block of the course, you will be embedded at a licenced Home-Based service, Ministry of Education or Ministry of Health approved Early Childhood Learning Centre or Home-Based service for up to 20 hours per week for 3-4 weeks.
What you can learn
Te Marau (Curriculum)
Gain knowledge and skills to understand and implement the early childhood curriculum, Te Whariki. An introduction to the Treaty of Waitangi, Tikanga Māori, and Te Reo Māori, underpinning a bi-cultural curriculum within a multi-ethnic society. Knowledge of how to implement a holistic, inclusive curriculum.
Whakaako Mokopuna (Pedagogy)
Learn about teaching and learning in an ECE setting. Students will develop an understanding of philosophies, theories and approaches of learning and development in providing a culturally inclusive curriculum. The concepts of whanaungatanga, manaakitanga and Pasifika values will be used as a basis for reflection of own practice. A personal philosophy of practice will be developed.
Te Mātauranga (Professional Knowledge)
Learn about the regulatory, legislative, theoretical and ethical requirements that impact on an early childhood Kaiako’s practice. This course will help you to contribute to an ECE environment that provides for the health and holistic well-being of infants, toddlers and young children. Students will demonstrate their understanding of strategies for managing their own personal health and well-being.
Kia Whakahāngai (Practice)
Learn introductory knowledge of children’s learning and holistic development and the bicultural nature of Te Whariki within their own culturally responsive practice and the value of play and learning plans within an ECE setting. You will also learn how to develop relationships with families, whanau and colleagues exhibiting a range of communication strategies and social competence.
Entry requirements
- Recommended to hold either NCEA Level 1 or 2 or the New Zealand Certificate in Early Childhood Education and Care or equivalent knowledge, skills and experience
- Students should own a computer or laptop and be reasonably proficient with computers and standard office software (Tablets and smartphones are not suitable for this online programme
- Must have access to the internet at home
- A compulsory criminal record check
- Two referees (not family or friends)
- An interview and a short statement of intent on why the learner wishes to pursue an Early Childhood Education qualification.
This programme requires students to have access to a laptop/desktop that can connect to the internet with a web browser and a required minimum screen size of 10 inches. For device specifications, please talk to your Course Advisor.
Employment opportunities
Graduates of this qualification will have the skills and knowledge to work or gain employment, in a wide range of early childhood services, which may include:
- Home-based educators
- Nanny/Au pair
- Relief ECE work under supervision
- Coordinator of certified playgroups
Pathways
*Conditions apply - get in contact with us to discuss. For more information about Youth Guarantee and Fees-Free, click
here.
What people say about us
"The tutors were very helpful and supportive during my studies. I enjoyed the practicum during my programme which allowed me to participate in practical work experience and secure a job in a child care centre."
Rene Neethling
Early Childhood Education and Care Graduate
