What is Early Childhood Education (ECE)?

ECE is working to support children’s learning, development, and care in those crucial early years so the children become competent and confident lifelong learners. An Early Childhood Educator is someone who works in partnership with whanau, community, and the team of educators for the best interests of the child.

How much do early childhood educators get paid in NZ?

After completing a degree, qualified Early Childhood Educators typically earn a salary between $52k to $60k per year. How much you can earn depends on your qualifications and experience, as well as the type of ECE service you work for.

Why is early childhood education so important?

It is important because 90% of a young child’s brain is developed before the age of 5 – qualified ECE educators are equipped with the skills and knowledge to give them the best chance to become a well-rounded young person through holistic well-being. It provides a pathway of learning and development for tāmariki in partnership with the community, whanau, hapu, and iwi.

How has early childhood education evolved over time in NZ?

The New Zealand Early Childhood Education Curriculum – Te Whāriki – was introduced in 1996. Te Whāriki translates into “The Woven Mat” which symbolises all strands of a child’s well-being and development being interwoven with each other. This bi-cultural document introduced a holistic approach of caring for children in an ECE service. In 2007, the New Zealand Government introduced 20 hours of subsidised ECE care for 3 and 4 year old children. This was to encourage more people to enrol their children with an ECE service.

How much does it cost to start your study in early childhood education in NZ?

Full time Early Childhood study at EmployNZ can be free if you qualify for the Fees Free scheme, or else you will be eligible for the Student Loan scheme.

How do I get an early childhood education certificate?

EmployNZ offers both Level 2 and Level 3 Early Childhood New Zealand Certificates. Enquire now as we have rolling intakes and limited space across both programmes.

How hard is early childhood education?

The ECE programmes at EmployNZ use a mix of practical and theoretical learning to cater to individual learner needs. Our experienced tutors will provide one-on-one support to ensure that all students meet their learning goals.

Where should I study early childhood education in NZ?

Tauranga is an excellent place to study Early childhood Education in New Zealand. There are several options for work placements during your study, we arrange on-the-job training for you, and there are excellent career prospects for employment when you have finished too. If you want to study at a higher level, there are also several tertiary institutes offering the Bachelor degree nearby.

How long does it take to study early childhood education?

EmployNZ’s Level 2 ECE programme is 14 weeks of full-time study, and Level 3 is 20 weeks full-time. Learners can pathway on from us and complete a 3 year degree programme at another institution.

How do I get a degree in early childhood education?

EmployNZ works with graduates from our Certificate programme to assist them with enrolling into a degree programme.

When I’ve finished studying early childhood education, is it easy to get a job in New Zealand?

According to careers.co.nz Chances of getting a job as an early childhood teacher are very good due to a shortage of educators in Aotearoa New Zealand.

Which education provider should I study early childhood education with?

EmployNZ specialises in helping those who want to enter the industry, and don’t meet the entry requirement for the degree programme. We introduce you to the tutors of the higher level programmes during your time with us at Level 2 and Level 3. We’ll provide recommendations to support your application. We are a popular choice for 4 reasons: We offer a variety of learning opportunities both in class and in the community as well as placement within an early childhood centre Small class size Class sizes are capped to maximise your learning We use conversational learning, meaning It is easier for you to ask questions and get answers We are employment focussed Our courses are based on the real world requirements ECE educators We help our graduates prepare for further study or support them into employment We provide maximum support Our tutors are always available to meet with you personally We help you enrol easily with Studylink advice and support Level 2 ECE programme can be free if you meet the criteria We offer a personalised experience and know our students by name

How do I get started on my Early Childhood Education career?

The first step is to book in a meeting and meet one of our Early Childhood Education (ECE) tutors at our Tauranga Campus. We look forward to seeing you soon.

Do I need a current COVID-19 vaccination passport to study Early Childhood Education?

Yes. Due to the work experience component of the programme, students enrolling on an ECE programme must be fully vaccinated. It is a government requirement that all staff of ECE centres, including students on work experience, must be fully vaccinated in order to be in an ECE centre.

Early Childhood Education Programmes

Start your career in Education

If you love interacting with children, are energetic and enthusiastic and want to learn how to care for children our Early Childhood Education courses are for you!

Learners can start with EmployNZ’s Level 2 and Level 3 Early Childhood certificates, and pathway on to complete a Bachelor of Teaching (Early Childhood Education).

EmployNZ’s Level 2 ECE is a full time, 20 week, NCEA Vocational Pathway programme and Level 3 ECE is a full time NZ Certficate programme which runs for 20 weeks.

Early Childhood Education [NCEA Level 2]

This program is intended for people who want to participate in the education and care of infants, toddlers, and young children.

Learn about:

Child development theories
Care for infants & young children
Health, safety & well-being
Positive relationships with children
Work placement in an ECE setting

Find out more

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Early Childhood Education [NZ Cert Level 3]

The program is aimed at people who want to progress into a career or further study in Early Childhood Education and gain the New Zealand Certificate in Early Childhood Education L3.