New Zealand Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care (Level 5)
Teaching
A course by
UCOL
Gain skills and knowledge to become a confident early childhood educator, blending theory, practical experience in ECE settings, and strong cultural competence in te reo and tikanga Māori.
NZ$7,898
inc GST
Enquire about international pricing
This course starts anytime
NZQA Level 5 Certification (120 Credits)
Advanced
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2
3
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5
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10
NZ$7,898
inc GST
Enquire about international pricing
This course starts anytime
NZQA Level 5 Certification (120 Credits)
Advanced
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
Core skills this course teaches
Understand child development and learning
Describe and explain key theories of child development, learning approaches, and the significance of these for teaching young children in Aotearoa, including neuroscience perspectives.
Apply Treaty-based and culturally responsive teaching
What You're Signing Up For
This diploma develops the skills, knowledge, and cultural competence to teach and care for infants, toddlers, and young children in ECE settings. The programme includes modules in child development, curriculum design, te reo and tikanga Māori, and professional teaching practices, with over 400 hours of placement organised by UCOL. It incorporates marae-based noho, field-based and practical work experience, and blends on-campus learning with flexible and part-time options.
Course Content
- Child Development
- Education and Society (including Tiriti o Waitangi)
- Professional Inquiry in Practice: Professional & Reflective Practice
- Professional Inquiry in Practice: Communication & Relationships
- Te Puna Reo (Māori language and tikanga in ECE)
- Play, Curriculum & Pedagogy
- Artistic Languages of Children (visual arts, music, movement)
- Educational Approaches (historical and contemporary ECE theories)
- Field Base Experience Placement in ECE settings
- Practical Experience Placement
What you need to know first
NCEA Level 3 or New Zealand/National Certificates in Early Childhood Education and Care (Level 3 or 4), or equivalent academic achievement, or entry at discretion of Executive Dean.
Find these employment opportunities
Centre-based care (Unqualified)Hospital-based care (play specialist assistant)Home-based careNanny servicesParent-led careOpportunities within culturally-based contexts
Unlock these industries
UCOL is a polytechnic built around the kind of learning that actually sticks — hands-on, practical, and grounded in the real world. With campuses across the lower North Island and a programme range that stretches from trades and health to creative arts and IT, it's a strong fit for learners who want a clear path into work without unnecessary detours. Whether you're fresh out of school, changing direction, or building on what you already know, UCOL is set up to meet you where you are.
