New Zealand Certificate in Early Childhood Education and Care (Level 4)
Course details
| NZQF Level | 4 |
|---|
About the course
Overview
This 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 requirements
Domestic Entry Requirements
NCEA 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 Requirements
In 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).
About the provider
UCOL in its many forms has been part of the community for more than a century. We are a proud example of a successful Institute of Technology and Polytechnic. We have a rich heritage and much to contribute to the future of vocational learning.
When you study with UCOL you’re much more than a number. We take the time to get to know you, to understand who you are. By sharing your strengths and what you want to achieve, we can truly help you get to where you want to be.
At UCOL, we’re here to support you all the way. Studying can be a challenge, we get that.
Study takes commitment, which, together with a learning style that suits you and the support you need, is a very powerful combination. At UCOL we encourage resilience and build self-confidence while you learn - providing our students with even greater opportunities.
As a student studying on or off campus, you can expect to learn skills and gain knowledge that sets you on your way. Gaining a qualification is a wonderful achievement that is earned, not given. We encourage you to stay in touch and make life-long learning a part of your journey. Ultimately, we want you to find your own place, whatever that may mean for you.
Our networks with local employers go beyond one-way exchanges, we value meaningful connections that are mutually beneficial. These relationships keep our education grounded, our programmes relevant, and job opportunities real. Our approach is truly collaborative.
UCOL graduates are well-rounded and possess the skills and values employers are looking for. They are valued members of their local community. With campuses in Palmerston North, Whanganui, Wairarapa and Horowhenua, and various delivery locations, we’re well known throughout the central and lower North Island.
Being close to our communities is a vital part of who we are. We strive to deepen connections and help our communities to grow and prosper. We aspire to build positive, meaningful relationships that benefit our students and graduates. That is why we exist.