Course details

Certificate in Early Childhood Education and Care (Level 4)
NZQF Level 4

About the course

The New Zealand Certificate in Early Childhood Education and Care (Level 4) will prepare you to provide 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, the programme covers: designing learning experiences aligned to socio-cultural theories of learning and development; developing a personal philosophy of professional practice; developing inclusive teaching practices that promote diversity and the place of Maori as tangata whenua; using effective communication strategies to establish healthy relationships in early childhood environments. The programme also includes a work placement practicum in an early childhood setting where you can apply what you're learning in an authentic work environment. 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 applications 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 requirements

Overall IELTS 5.5 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, book an IELTS or other test through the Ara Examination Centre or 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 NCEA Level 3 University Entrance? You do not need to provide additional evidence of English Language skills. Still 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. Consent to Disclosure of Information: Successful applicants will be required to complete a New Zealand Police Consent to Disclosure of Information form. Interview: 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. NCEA Level 1 (80 credits at Level 1, including 10 Literacy credits and 10 Numeracy credits) OR New Zealand Certificate in Early Childhood Education and Care (Level 3) If you have undertaken examinations other than NCEA (e.g. International Baccalaureate, Cambridge Examination), Ara will assess your qualification for academic entry equivalency.

About the provider

Ara Institute of Canterbury is recognised as one of New Zealand’s leading tertiary institutes. Specialising in applied, vocational and professional training, it offers more than 150 courses from foundation to postgraduate level. 

Ara caters to a diverse range of learners; from school leavers and career changers to professionals wanting to upskill and individuals seeking to re-enter the workforce.

All Ara students benefit from the Ara Advantage: relevant courses, taught by inspirational mentors in real-life learning environments. Almost every Ara programme includes work-integrated learning. Work placements, apprenticeships, industry-based projects and internships ensure students are work-ready when they graduate.

Across its six campuses, Ara’s dedicated tutors and non-academic staff support students throughout their study journey. A comprehensive range of student services - such as financial assistance, learning support, health and wellbeing services, accommodation, childcare and student events – contributes to the success of every student.

It also has six additional small community hubs which deliver free digital upskilling and personal development courses.

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