New Zealand Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care (Level 5)

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.

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. Character Reference: Two satisfactory character references are required which address the Education Council of Aotearoa New Zealand Good Character and Fit to be a Teacher Policy 2007. These should be from persons in positions of trust or responsibility such as an employer, pastor, kaumatua or kuia. References from family/whanau, friends or work colleagues will not be accepted. 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 2 OR New Zealand Certificate in Early Childhood Education and Care (Level 4) or equivalent