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 Whariki) and the role of play in child learning and development; effective written and oral communication; and the use of te reo Maori. 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 Maori.
