Institute of Technology or Polytechnic
Universal College of LearningNew Zealand Certificate in Early Childhood Education and Care (Level 4)
This course is available
On-Campus
Level of Study
Certificate
Duration
19 weeks
Next start date
Expected Nov 2026
Summary
OverviewThis programme provides you with the essential knowledge and practical skills to work confidently with infants, toddlers, and young children in multicultural early childhood settings and play a key role in enhancing family and community relationships.
This dynamic programme blends theory with hands-on experience, including 60 hours of practicum in real early childhood environments.
You’ll learn to apply socio-cultural theories, embrace diversity, and implement the bicultural principles of Te Whāriki, New Zealand’s early childhood curriculum.
New study options available: We are offering weekend study options for this programme in Palmerston North, specifically for those in employment and the homecare early childhood education sector.
Entry criteria
Domestic Entry RequirementsNCEA Level 2;
OR
equivalent academic achievement on a case-by-case basis;
OR
at the discretion of the Executive Dean.
Learners must authorise UCOL to obtain a background check from the New Zealand Police Licensing and Vetting Agency. If a conviction and/or a matter of concern is identified, the decision for accepting the applicant’s enrolment into the programme is at the discretion of the Academic Portfolio Manager.
UCOL will undertake a safety check of all learners to ensure UCOL meets the legislative requirements of the Children's Act, 2014. UCOL will do this on behalf of early childhood education institutions and providers of private childcare placements hosting UCOL learners. The safety check involves confirming the learner's work history, verifying their suitability to work with children with a trusted referee, and completing New Zealand Police vetting.
International Entry RequirementsIn addition to the Domestic Entry Requirements, the following applies to international learner applicants.
English language proficiency
International learner applicants whose first language is not English must have an IELTS Academic score of 5.5 with no band score lower than 5 (or equivalent including TOEFL). IELTS scores used must be taken from a single IELTS Test Report Form (i.e. combining scores from more than one test is not permissible).
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