New Zealand Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care (Level 5)
Teaching
A course by
UCOL
Learn the skills to work in an early childcare centre with the UCOL New Zealand Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care. This Level 5 diploma prepares students to become competent early childhood support educators with a strong foundation in teaching, child development, and cultural knowledge.
In-person study
Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting
Available in 3 locations
It will take a total of 41 weeks
This course requires 32 hours per week
Core skills this course teaches
Understand Child Development Theories
Learners will be able to describe local and global child development theories, explain their significance in teaching, and relate neuroscience to these theories.
Appreciate Education and Society Contexts
Learners will understand the history and implications of Te Tiriti o Waitangi in education, analyze equity and equality in New Zealand early childhood education, and comprehend the role of teachers.
Apply Professional and Reflective Practice
What You're Signing Up For
The New Zealand Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care (Level 5) offered by UCOL prepares ākonga (students) for a career as early childhood support educators working with infants, toddlers, and young children in various early childhood contexts. The programme combines theoretical knowledge, including Te Tiriti o Waitangi, child development, teaching and learning theories, and principles of Te Whāriki, with extensive practical experience in licensed early childhood education services. The diploma serves as a pathway to further study, including entry into the second year of the Bachelor of Teaching (ECE) Level 7 at UCOL for those seeking teacher registration. Students attend on-campus classes two days per week and complete 12 hours weekly placements plus practical experience, ensuring readiness for employment in early childhood settings. The qualification does not lead directly to teacher registration but supports graduates to pursue further study and career advancement.
Course Content
- Child Development (15 credits) - key theories and neuroscience of child development from birth to six years
- Education and Society (15 credits) - understanding social, cultural contexts, Tiriti o Waitangi implications
- Professional Inquiry in Practice 1: Professional and Reflective Practice (15 credits) - teaching practices, documentation, use of te reo Māori, reflective practice
- Professional Inquiry in Practice 2: Communication and Relationships (15 credits) - collaborative communication, cultural protocols, professional responsibilities
- Te Puna Reo (15 credits) - te reo Māori me ngā Tikanga relevant for early childhood services
- Play, Curriculum & Pedagogy (15 credits) - role of play in learning and development, support strategies
- Artistic Languages of Children (15 credits) - visual arts, music and movement curriculum and cultural identity
- Educational Approaches (15 credits) - historical and contemporary education philosophies in Aotearoa
- Field Base Experience Placement - 14 weeks, 12 hours per week practical work in early childhood service
- Practical Experience Placement - 4 weeks, full-time placement (120 hours) in early childhood setting
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Early Childhood Education
Education
Future employment opportunities might be
Centre-based care (Unqualified)
Hospital-based play specialist assistant
Home-based care
Nanny services