Teaching
A course by
Future Skills
A work-based, online Level 5 diploma designed for those employed or volunteering in early childhood settings, equipping students with in-demand skills in early childhood education, care, and teaching, and providing a pathway to further study and teacher registration.
Online study
Flexible online learning from anywhere
Online, Online
It will take a total of 48 weeks
This course requires 27 hours per week

Apply the Te Whāriki curriculum, learning theories, and development observation techniques to enrich the learning environment for infants, toddlers, and young children.

Demonstrate understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi, use Te Reo Māori, and engage with children and families from diverse backgrounds in an ECE context.

The NZ Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care (In employment) (Level 5) is a comprehensive, sector-aligned qualification for those currently working or volunteering in ECE settings. It enables students to gain skills in the education and care of infants, toddlers, and young children while maintaining employment. The program covers play-based learning, child development, Te Whāriki curriculum, professional development, health and safety, and effective communication. Graduates are prepared for a range of roles in early childhood education and can continue to higher qualifications for teacher registration.
What you need to know first

Education
Early Childhood Care

Early Childhood Educator
Teacher Aide
Home-based Care Provider
Professional Nanny
Teaching
A course by
Future Skills
A work-based, online Level 5 diploma designed for those employed or volunteering in early childhood settings, equipping students with in-demand skills in early childhood education, care, and teaching, and providing a pathway to further study and teacher registration.
Online study
Flexible online learning from anywhere
Online, Online
It will take a total of 48 weeks
This course requires 27 hours per week

Apply the Te Whāriki curriculum, learning theories, and development observation techniques to enrich the learning environment for infants, toddlers, and young children.

Demonstrate understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi, use Te Reo Māori, and engage with children and families from diverse backgrounds in an ECE context.

The NZ Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care (In employment) (Level 5) is a comprehensive, sector-aligned qualification for those currently working or volunteering in ECE settings. It enables students to gain skills in the education and care of infants, toddlers, and young children while maintaining employment. The program covers play-based learning, child development, Te Whāriki curriculum, professional development, health and safety, and effective communication. Graduates are prepared for a range of roles in early childhood education and can continue to higher qualifications for teacher registration.
What you need to know first

Education
Early Childhood Care

Early Childhood Educator
Teacher Aide
Home-based Care Provider
Professional Nanny
Apply professional ethics, build collaborative relationships in ECE services, and communicate effectively using appropriate protocols.
Currently working or volunteering in an approved early childhood setting and able to complete required work experience hours
Work Experience Agreement from employer or Centre Manager
Physically able to perform ECE duties
If under 20, NCEA Level 2 or four years’ secondary education or equivalent
Evidence of potential to study at tertiary level
Police vet report (no convictions of concern)
Experience with children and involvement in cultural/social/sporting/community services
Interview and three referees
Basic computer skills
For non-native English speakers: NZ University Entrance OR NZ Certificate in English Language (Level 4) OR IELTS academic score 5.5 (minimum 5 in each band) OR acceptable alternative
ECE Reliever
Apply professional ethics, build collaborative relationships in ECE services, and communicate effectively using appropriate protocols.
Currently working or volunteering in an approved early childhood setting and able to complete required work experience hours
Work Experience Agreement from employer or Centre Manager
Physically able to perform ECE duties
If under 20, NCEA Level 2 or four years’ secondary education or equivalent
Evidence of potential to study at tertiary level
Police vet report (no convictions of concern)
Experience with children and involvement in cultural/social/sporting/community services
Interview and three referees
Basic computer skills
For non-native English speakers: NZ University Entrance OR NZ Certificate in English Language (Level 4) OR IELTS academic score 5.5 (minimum 5 in each band) OR acceptable alternative
ECE Reliever