New Zealand Diploma in Pregnancy, Childbirth and Early Parenting Education
Course details
About the course
This two-year, part-time programme is designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge required to facilitate quality, informed pregnancy, childbirth and early parenting education.
Using a blended delivery model combining online and face-to-face learning, this programme can be studied anywhere in New Zealand. It requires a commitment of 20 hours study per week, plus attendance at two, three-day wānanga/intensive at the City campus (Christchurch).
The diploma covers knowledge relating to anatomy, physiology, psychology and sociology of the child-bearing years; pregnancy; labour and childbirth; infant nutrition and breastfeeding; early parenting and child health; cultural awareness and cultural safety; determinants of health; and the Treaty of Waitangi.
Aspects of teaching that are covered include: communication, teaching theories, group dynamics, effective lesson planning, course design analysis, and assessment and evaluation processes. During your studies you'll use a range of assessment methods informed by contemporary research to enhance learning. You'll also evaluate your own teaching performance to improve client learning and programme outcomes.
In addition to your theory studies, you'll undertake significant work-integrated learning alongside a qualified antenatal educator. This ensures continuous integration with the theoretical components of the course, allowing you to develop your competence and confidence in preparation for facilitating PCEPE sessions.
Upon completion of this programme you'll be a knowledgeable facilitator of adult learning, able to plan, implement and evaluate effective pregnancy, childbirth and early parenting programmes that are evidence-based and aligned with community needs.
*This programme is delivered using a mix of online and face-to-face learning. It includes two, three-day wānanga/intensives at the City campus (Christchurch). Part-time, 2 years.
Currently there is a national shortage of facilitators of pregnancy, childbirth and early parenting education so excellent employment opportunities exist for graduates of this programme. Possible employers include health boards, Plunket, Parents Centre and iwi groups.
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.