Institute of Technology or Polytechnic
Ara Institute of CanterburyNew Zealand Certificate in Early Childhood Education and Care (Introductory Skills) (Level 3)
This course is available
On-Campus
Level of Study
Certificate
Duration
19 weeks
Next start date
Expected Feb 2027
Summary
The New Zealand Certificate in Early Childhood Education and Care will prepare you to participate in the care and education of infants, toddlers and young children in entry-level carer roles, and for higher level study leading to a teaching qualification.
Taught by supportive tutors in a practical learning environment, the programme covers: early childhood learning and development progression; bicultural framework for childhood learning in Aotearoa New Zealand; planning learning experiences for young children; health, safety and wellbeing in the early childhood environment; ethical responsibilities and professional practice; basic Te Reo Maori and tikanga Maori specific to the early childhood environment.
The programme also includes a work placement practicum in an early childhood setting where you can apply what you're learning. Courses are timetabled during school hours to cater for students with children.
Please note:
- An interview will be held prior to acceptance to assess your suitability for working with children in the community and to ensure that Ara meets the legislative requirements of the Vulnerable Children's Act 2014.
- If your application is successful, you will be required to complete a New Zealand Police Consent to Disclosure of Information form. The form will be sent to the Police Licensing and Vetting Service, and returned in confidence to Ara. Information on the New Zealand Police Vetting Service is available from the New Zealand Police website.
Entry criteria
Academic RequirementsThe programme has open entry. English Language requirements apply.
Additional RequirementsInterview: An interview will be held prior to acceptance to assess suitability for working with children in the community and ensure Ara meets the legislative requirements of the Children's Act 2014.
Two satisfactory character references are required. These should be from persons in positions of trust or responsibility such as an employer, pastor, kaumātua or kuia. References from family/whānau or friends will not be accepted.
Prior to enrolment, applicants will be required to complete a New Zealand Police Request and Consent form. The form will be sent to the New Zealand Police Vetting Service and returned in confidence to Ara.
English RequirementsOverall IELTS 5.0 Academic
- 5.0 Listening
- 5.0 Reading
- 5.0 Writing
- 5.0 Speaking
What if English is not my first Language?
If English is not your first language, we want to make sure that you will be successful in your chosen programme of study.
- Please provide a result from a test or qualification on the acceptable alternatives
- English Proficiency Outcomes Chart.
- If you are a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent Resident, complete an Admission and Enrolment form and Ara will contact you regarding a free assessment.
- If you are not a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent resident, please book a PTE Academic test through the Ara Examination Centre or complete an NZQA-approved English language test in your home country.
- IELTS scores used must be taken from a single IELTS Test Report Form and are valid for two years from the date of the test.
What if I have achieved New Zealand University Entrance?
If you have met New Zealand University Entrance requirements or acceptable alternatives as defined by NZQA you are not required to provide evidence of English Language proficiency.
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