Institute of Technology or Polytechnic
Ara Institute of CanterburyNew Zealand Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care (Level 5)
This course is available
On-Campus
Level of Study
Diploma
Duration
1 year
Next start date
Expected Feb 2027
Campus
Christchurch - City Campus
Summary
The New Zealand Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care (Level 5) will equip you to provide high quality, practice-based education and care in early childhood settings, and/or to pathway into higher level study leading to a teaching qualification.
Taught by supportive tutors in a practical learning environment, it covers the early childhood education curriculum (Te Whāriki) and the role of play in child learning and development; effective written and oral communication; and the use of te reo Māori. It also explores bicultural infant and toddler care and education strategies to create high quality, safe and inclusive learning environments. You’ll develop, reflect, and receive feedback on skills in observation, assessment and planning for teaching young children.
The programme includes a 180-hour supported placement experience, enabling you to practice behaviour guidance strategies in an authentic early childhood education setting. This will be undertaken in two, three-week blocks. When not on placement, you’ll attend classes for three and a half days a week, during which you’ll participate in active learning experiences, including group projects, presentations to peers, and practicing te reo and tikanga Māori.
Entry criteria
Academic RequirementsNCEA Level 2
OR New Zealand Certificate in Early Childhood Education and Care (Level 4)
OR New Zealand Study and Employment Pathways (Level 4)
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.
Alternative RequirementsStill want to study but don't meet the Academic Requirements?
- If you show that you have equivalent skills for tertiary study gained through study, work and/or life experience, you may be able to gain alternative entry.
- Note: The number of courses you have to complete for this qualification may be reduced where you have relevant credits from previous study, or evidence of similar learning or experience in the workplace.
What if English is not my first Language?
Overall IELTS 5.5 Academic
- 5.0 Listening
- 5.0 Reading
- 5.0 Writing
- 5.0 Speaking
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.
Disclaimer