bachelor of early childhood education new zealand

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Associate Teachers | Alumni | NZTC_Online

• OVERVIEW OF NZTC
• MISSION STATEMENT AND VALUES
• RESEARCH @ NZTC
• NZQA RATING OF NZTC
• EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION
• POSTGRADUATE QUALIFICATIONS
•  •  Master of Education (Early Childhood Education)
•  •  Master of Early Childhood Education
•  •  Postgraduate Diploma in Education (Early Childhood Education)
•  •  Postgraduate Certificate in Education (Leadership and Management)
• UNDERGRADUATE QUALIFICATIONS
•  •  Graduate Diploma in Teaching (Early Childhood Education)
•  •  Bachelor of Teaching (Early Childhood Education)
•  •  Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood Education)
•  •  New Zealand Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care (Level 6)
•  •  New Zealand Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care (Level 5)
• HEALTH AND WELLBEING
•  •  New Zealand Certificate in Health and Wellbeing (Advanced Care and Support) (Level 4)
•  •  New Zealand Certificate in Health and Wellbeing - Health Assistance Strand (Level 3)
•  •  New Zealand Certificate in Health and Wellbeing (Level 2)
• MODES OF LEARNING
• INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
• STUDY DATES
• APPLICATION PROCESS
• STUDENT SUPPORT
• USEFUL LINKS
• INTOUCH NEWSLETTER
• NZTC CARES NEWSLETTER
• Early Childhood Education
• Undergraduate Qualifications

Bachelor of Teaching (Early Childhood Education)

Method: Full-time

Mode: Blended

Duration: 3 years (Full-time)

Credits: 360

This qualification prepares students for a rewarding career in the field of early childhood teaching. NZTC students gain the skills and knowledge needed to practice with confidence in a diverse socio-cultural context and are eligible to apply for New Zealand teacher registration with the Teaching Council of Aotearoa New Zealand.  

All applicants must:

• Have University Entrance via either NCEA or CIE or achieved an equivalent overseas high school diploma
• Demonstrate their ability to meet the expectations of the Teaching Council of Aotearoa New Zealand, based on the Code of Professional Responsibility and Standards for the Teaching Profession (2017), through a personal visual interview
• Meet the literacy and numeracy requirement
• Provide written referee reports
• Satisfy New Zealand Police clearance conditions
• Declare any physical or learning disability, or diverse needs that may impact on your performance as a student

Please note:

• Any student who will reach the age of 20 by the commencement of the program and who does not meet the requirement for admission to the program may be granted special admission. Applicants may need to demonstrate academic ability to study at the level required to complete the program successfully
• Credit for prior formal learning may be awarded towards this qualification at the discretion of the College

Language Entry Criteria:

All students are required by the Teaching Council of Aotearoa New Zealand to provide evidence of their English language competency. Details of these requirements can be found HERE

Applicants not able to provide evidence of their English language competency may request an exemption from the Teaching Council. Please contact us for further information.

International students are also required to provide proof of their English language competency by meeting the language criteria defined in Rule 18 of the NZQF Programme Approval and Accreditation Rules 2021 for a Level 7 qualification.

All students will be required to:

• In addition to Field Practice, students are required to undertake work experience (paid or voluntary) in a licensed early childhood centre for a minimum of 16 hours per week throughout the program
• Engage in online discussions.

International students are also required to attend compulsory tutorials throughout the program

All students will be required to complete 120 days of full-time Field Practice during the Bachelor of Teaching program. This will consist of a minimum of 40 days per stage.

Blended Learning This mode of learning blends the flexibility of online learning with workplace learning and practical experience. All students have access to NZTC Online for learning including course materials, research and support materials, and assessment submission and return, while learning in their workplace.

2024 Fees NZD Domestic students - $6,652 per year International students - $24,000 per year

2025 Fees NZD Domestic students - Was $7,050 per year NOW $1,999 for a limited time. 1st year only. Terms & Conditions: Domestic students only. Study must commence between 1 January 2025 and 31 March 2025.

International students - $26,000

The following fees are also required:

• Student Fee Insurance $50  Covers the insurance to protect student fees. The fee is based upon one stage of study.
• Student ID card $30  One off payment at beginning of study. Students must submit a photo for a student card to be produced. Replacement cards for lost or stolen cards are $30.
• Police Vetting Fee $25  One off payment at beginning of study.
• NZQA Reporting Fee $10 Covers the cost of reporting qualification to NZQA.

If you are applying for Credit Recognition and Transfer (CRT):

• CRT Assessment Fee $95 The fee is non-refundable even if no CRT credit is awarded.

International students may also be required to pay the following fees:

• Homestay Placement $350 This fee is non-refundable even if no homestay is taken by the student.
• Medical and Travel Insurance $861 (approx)/annum Insurance purchased from NZTC meets the conditions for insurance stipulated in the Code of Practice for the Pastoral Care of International Students. All insurance submitted to NZTC will be evaluated to ensure it meets the conditions. If the insurance does not, no Confirmation of Enrolment will be issued. Please check  HERE  .

New Zealand Tertiary College qualifications have been designed to link easily into each other, providing you with a flexible range of pathway options into higher level study.

Upon completion of the Bachelor of Teaching (Early Childhood Education) you may be eligible to apply for the following postgraduate programs. Entry criteria will apply.

Apply to enrol with NZTC

Ready to apply?

Simply fill out a few details below. From there, you can either go straight to our full application form or wait for one of our team to get in contact with you in the next few days.

If you're an international student, you can apply online with our online application form.  Click here  to apply as an international student.

Ready to start your study journey with NZTC?

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Early Childhood Teaching

Introduction.

A child’s early years have a significant impact on their lifelong development. As an early childhood teacher, you will provide experiences that lay the foundations for later learning.

What will my study involve? keyboard_arrow_down

What will my study involve.

• Gain skills supporting child development and growing their love for learning.
• Placements in early childhood settings to experience teaching young children.
• Bicultural focus interweaving Māori and Western knowledge and Māori teaching practices, including a noho marae experience and Te Reo Māori me onā tikanga courses.

Courses keyboard_arrow_down

Early childhood endorsement.

For the endorsement in Ako: Bachelor of Teaching and Learning , complete the following courses:

• AKOT100 Navigating Study at Tertiary Level - Being a Successful Learner (0-point course)
• AKOT101 Ngā Tāngata o Aotearoa: Te Mana o Te Tiriti o Waitangi
• AKOT110 Te Reo Māori Tahi: Mā te Kaiako
• AKOE170 Ko wai au? Who am I?
• AKOE171 Whai Oranga: Pursuing Wellbeing of Children
• AKOE172 Infant and Toddler Pedagogies in Action
• AKOE173 Curriculum: Te Whāriki
• AKOE174 ECE as a Contested Profession: Looking Back, Moving Forward
• AKOA161 Mana Ako: Practice Exploration 1
• AKOT210 Te Reo Māori Rua: Mā te Kaiako
• AKOT230 Whānau Tangata: Possibilities, Opportunities and Tensions
• AKOT231 Saili Matagi - 'Seeking the winds of change in Pasifika education'
• AKOT232 Whanaungatanga: Relationally Connected
• AKOE270 Ngākau Urutanga Whānui: Diversity and Inclusion at the Heart
• AKOE272 Curriculum: Becoming an Intentional Teacher
• AKOA261 Mana Ako: Practice Exploration 2
• AKOA262 Mana Ako: Practice Exploration 3
• AKOT310 Te Reo Māori Toru: Mā te Kaiako
• AKOE371 ECE as a Contested Profession: Leadership and Criticality in ECE
• AKOE372 ECE as a Contested Profession: Ethics, Politics and Teaching
• AKOE373 Curriculum: Designing Holistic and Bicultural Learning Experiences
• AKOE374 Curriculum: Leading Design
• AKOA363 Mana Ako: Early Childhood Practice Exploration 4
• AKOA364 Mana Ako: Early Childhood Practice Exploration 5
• One course chosen from these options

See more information on course occurrences and timetable groupings .

Graduate Option

The Graduate Diploma in Teaching and Learning (Early Childhood) caters for those who hold a university degree, offering a one-year pathway into early childhood teaching.

How to apply

For details on entry requirements and the application process, see the Guide to Applying .

Career opportunities keyboard_arrow_down

Career opportunities.

Working in early childhood offers you a challenging, interactive, and rewarding career caring for infants, toddlers, and young children in their important early stages.

From your placements throughout the degree, you will have teaching skills and experiences from a variety of education settings that could also apply to any area working with children and whānau.

Career pathways could include:

• early childhood teaching
• teacher’s aide
• government.

Find out more about what you can do with a degree in Early Childhood Teaching .

Related brochures

Undergraduate prospectus, whakatairanga ākonga, international prospectus 2024/2025, student stories, yaoxuan (stella) liu, 20 july 2023.

"The degree offered me great opportunities to experience different types of teaching placements..."

Mikaela Singleton

02 august 2023.

"Canterbury was the most supportive of my wish to do this degree..."

Aroha Weaver

"I believe that we can learn so much from children..."

Lauren Rowlands

"You get out of study what you put in..."

Esther Marshall

"I get to explore big implications of the world..."

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• Areas of study
• Early childhood
• Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood Teaching) (Level 7)

Study for a degree in early childhood education (ECE)

Request a brochure Apply now

Duration and study methods

Full-time for 3 years (34 teaching weeks per year), part-time available. The maximum time to complete this programme part-time is 6 years.

Start dates

February, July

July intake for NZ2851 NZ Diploma ECE graduates only #

Qualification

Domestic fees.

$7,700 (approx.) per year

Individual course fees

International fees

Free* study.

Explore the free options available for this programme, and check your eligibility:

Final-year Fees Free

# The July 2025 intake is only open to applicants pathwaying from the New Zealand Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care (Field-based) (Level 5).

If you are a new applicant, we recommend applying for the february intake or to consider the new zealand diploma in early childhood education and care (field-based) (level 5) instead. if you successfully complete this diploma, you will be eligible under specified criteria to pathway into the second year of the bachelor's degree., programme highlights.

Get prepared for a rewarding career in early childhood education.

Study with MIT to learn the hands-on skills you need to teach in a range of early childhood settings.

You will also develop skills in implementing a range of cultural teaching practices, including Māori and Pasifika worldviews.

This qualification involves plenty of real-world work experience. Along with 21 weeks of full-time placement, you will spend a minimum of 12 hours a week working in an early childhood centre.

Successful completion of this programme will lead to recognised qualified teacher status, and graduates are able to apply for provisional practicing certification with the Teaching Council of Aotearoa New Zealand.

How to qualify

If you don't yet meet the entry requirements for this degree programme, find out how you can qualify by completing our  New Zealand Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care (Field-based) (Level 5) .

TeachNZ scholarship opportunity

TeachNZ scholarships will support you on your journey towards being a great teacher or kaiako.

They can cover the cost of your course fees and pay you an allowance throughout the duration of your study.

If you are planning on enrolling, or are already enrolled on our Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood Teaching) (Level 7), you are eligible to apply for one of TeachNZ’s five scholarships.

Find out more

Entry requirements

Academic requirements.

In order to be admitted to the Bachelor of Education (ECT) programme, applicants must:

• Be seventeen years of age or older at the start of the programme, and
• Satisfy English Language Competency requirements as determined by the Teaching Council of Aotearoa New Zealand policy OR
• Satisfy NZQA English Language Requirements (for international students, further see below), and
• Meet the requirements as per the Children’s Act 2014 prior to gaining entry into the programme;  and
• Complete an interview with a selection panel of at least two registered teachers,  and
• Satisfy the minimum diagnostic literacy and numeracy entry assessments marks
• An academic panel made up of members of the Schools Programme Committee including the Head of School will approve programme acceptance upon review of all evidence provided.

For individuals under 20 years of age, in addition to the above criteria:

• Hold UE or a recognised equivalent such as International Baccalaureate or Cambridge International,  or
• Able to demonstrate to the satisfaction of the provider that they have the skills and ability to study at tertiary level.

Criteria to determine under 20 year old ability to study at tertiary level as exceptional individual cases:

NB: all other entry criteria must be met

• Satisfactory marks in the literacy and numeracy diagnostic test set at UE level, and
• Three of more years of secondary schooling in New Zealand, or
• 10 UE literacy credits (5 reading, 5 writing), or
• Completion of an Academic Study Skills programme of study at a tertiary level provider, and
• An academic panel made up of members of the Schools Programme Committee including the Head of School will approve programme acceptance upon review of all evidence provided by the individual applicant on case by case basis

Note: There will be no exceptions for cohort entry

Additionally, should a student not be achieving the academic or professional experience expectations there will be multiple avenues of support and guidance:

• Monitoring of their progression and early detection of issues through formative assessment and class discussions of practice, both in academic study skills and practice in order to meet the standards (in supported environment).
• Appropriate support mechanisms such as pastoral care that includes academic support, support of teaching practice, emotional and physical wellbeing enacted with peer mentoring, lecturer support, an individual learning plans (as required), learning advisors, counsellors and/or subject librarians.
• Regular professional dialogue and feedback from school-based learning associate teachers, mentor teachers (in partner schools) and any issues raised are escalated to the Practicum Lead.
• Second visits by an alternative senior lecturer in school-based and practicum assessments of practice where the first lecturer/or mentor/associate teacher identifies that a student is not meeting the requirements.
• Exit pathways for student teachers will be considered when they are not achieving the academic or professional experience learning outcomes; and are unlikely to meet the standards by the end of the programme. For example, connecting students with the career and employment solutions team to practice interviewing techniques, CV writing and job to skill matching.

Other requirements

Persons wishing to undertake the programme must complete the prescribed application form and submit it to the School of Education. The application form includes a declaration of physical and mental health, a declaration of all criminal and pending criminal convictions and consent for a police check.  Applicants may be required to provide a health declaration that they are emotionally, mentally and physically capable of undertaking the demands of the teaching programme as required in the Teaching Council of Aotearoa New Zealand Code of Professional Responsibility and Standards for the Teaching Profession. Reports may be requested with the consent of the Applicant.

The application form must be submitted with the following:

• Evidence of educational qualifications
• Evidence of Language Proficiency (as per Teaching Council of Aotearoa New Zealand Policy) as required

As well as;

Children’s Act (2014) safety check requirements:

• Two forms of identification – one form must include a photo (if the name differs from the name of the document students must produce supporting document that shows evidence of name change).
• Two satisfactory written referee reports, from independent referees, who will provide confidential information on the applicant. Referees will be asked to affirm that the applicant is of good character, is likely to be ‘fit to be a teacher' and can communicate well with adults and children. Referees may not be relatives of the applicant and must have known the applicant for at least two years. Referees must send the completed form directly to the enrolment team on behalf of the School of Education.
• A completed New Zealand Police Vetting Service Request and Consent Form and satisfactory result
• Attend an interview with two School of Education staff

Interview Requirements:

All applicants who meet the entry requirements and have provided all necessary documentation will be interviewed in groups of two to three by two interviewers. The interviewers will be teaching staff on the programme or qualified certificated teachers who work closely with the School. Whānau interviews are offered upon request. Visual technologies will be used where distance is an issue.

The interviewers will consider whether applicants demonstrate potential to develop the qualities and dispositions to meet the C ode of Professional Responsibility and Standards for the Teaching Profession on completion of the programme, the ability to relate to and communicate with others, and their ability to be successful on the programme.

During the interview the applicant will be assessed against the following aspects to determine their admission to the programme:

• Motivation to work in with young children
• Personal awareness of own competencies when working with others
• Potential to uphold the public and professional reputation of teachers
• Promote and nurture the safety of learners within his or her care.
• Show understanding of current issues or challenges in the sector
• Understand the characteristics required for effective teaching in a multicultural setting
• Knowledge of appropriate skills in dealing with conflict
• Ability to listen and comprehend and respond to the questions asked
• Articulate some knowledge of education in Aotearoa and commitment to te Tiriti o Waitangi

After the interview, the applicants will complete the Personal and Professional Safety Form, and answer questions regarding guidance of children’s behaviour as required under the Children’s Act (2014) and undertake the numeracy and literacy diagnostic test.

Language Competency Requirements

Prior to entry, applicants must demonstrate language competency by providing one of the Teaching Council’s approved evidence of language competency, as follows:

• New Zealand University Entrance literacy credits at either NCEA level 2 or 3;
• New Zealand University Entrance;
• New Zealand tertiary entrance qualification gained on completing senior secondary school prior to the introduction of the current University Entrance;
• International Baccalaureate full diploma in English medium (24 points minimum).
• Cambridge International Examinations minimum of 120 points on the UCAS Tariff plus meeting the CIE literacy requirements;
• All primary schooling and at least three years secondary schooling completed in the English language while living in New Zealand, Australia, Canada, the Republic of Ireland, the United Kingdom, the United States of America, or South Africa. For South Africa, applicants also need to provide a South African Matriculation Certificate Minimum Higher-Grade D pass or Standard Level 5 in English or a South African Senior Certificate Minimum Higher-Grade D pass or Standard Level 5 pass in English;
• Six years of education comprising secondary schooling to at least year 12 and at least two years of successful tertiary education, taught in English as the primary language of instruction and through face-to-face learning and assessment such as tutorials, presentations, seminars, and supervisory meetings, and was gained while living in New Zealand, Australia, Canada, the Republic of Ireland, the United Kingdom, the United States of America, or South Africa.  For South Africa, applicants also need to provide a South African Matriculation Certificate Minimum Higher-Grade D pass or Standard Level 5 in English or a South African Senior Certificate Minimum Higher-Grade D pass or Standard Level 5 pass in English;
• Awarded a single qualification at NZQF level 7 or above which took two or more years of full-time study to complete and was taught in English as the primary language of instruction and through face-to-face learning and assessment such as tutorials, presentations, seminars, and supervisory meetings, and was gained while living in New Zealand, Australia, Canada, the Republic of Ireland, the United Kingdom, the United States of America, or South Africa.  For South Africa, applicants also need to provide a South African Matriculation Certificate Minimum Higher-Grade D pass or Standard Level 5 in English or a South African Senior Certificate Minimum Higher-Grade D pass or Standard Level 5 pass in English;
• Awarded Cambridge Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (CELTA);
• Awarded Trinity College London Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (CertTESOL);
• Achieved an outcome in one of the approved tests which is equivalent to or better than those specified (see table below) within the past two years:

NB: Any future changes by the Teaching Council of Aotearoa New Zealand around academic requirements for admission and language proficiency will supersede regulations in the programme document until the appropriate type 2 changes are made.

International students

English Language Entry Requirements For the minimum English language requirements refer to the requirements set out in Rule 18 of the NZQF Programme and Accreditation Rules https://www.nzqa.govt.nz/providers-partners/qa-system-for-teos/english-international-students

Literacy and numeracy competency:

Prior to entry, applicants must:

• pass (with a minimum of 50%) the Programme Committee approved literacy competency assessment, and
• pass (with a minimum of 50%) the Programme Committee approved numeracy competency assessment.

In accordance with the Teaching Council’s requirements for ITE providers, the literacy and numeracy test measures applicant’s competency in reading, writing and numeracy. The test was developed to meet the equivalent level of the required literacy and numeracy credits for university entrance. The assessment tools were adapted from the Tertiary Education Commission’s learning progressions. The mapping tool provided by the Ministry of Education indicates that literacy ability at NCEA level two and three is equivalent to steps four to five of the learning progression and numeracy ability at NCEA level is equivalent to steps two to three.  The final test and marking schemes were assessed by an institute literacy and numeracy expert who confirmed the test was of an appropriate level.  The passing test level for the literacy and numeracy test is comparable to New Zealand University Entrance.

The diagnostic test will be undertaken in an environment equivalent to group exam conditions. Therefore, the test is invigilated, timed to a maximum of 2 hours, no tools are permitted (i.e. calculators/phones).

Candidates maybe offered a resit on either test should they reach a mark between 45-49%.

Selection Criteria :

The outcomes of the interview and testing are collated together with the results of the referee reports and provided to a selection panel. The Selection Panel, which comprises of the Curriculum Lead, a senior or principal lecturer within the School of Education, and a member of the external advisory committee who is a registered/certificated teacher, will consider each applicant who has been interviewed and makes the final decision regarding acceptance.  The selection panel will make an overall judgement as to whether the applicant meets the entry requirements, has the potential to be successful on the programme and is likely to meet the Professional Responsibilities and Standards for Teaching on completion.

Decisions regarding those applicants who have a returned Police Vet with criminal conviction/s will consider the severity, date of the offence(s), age, and pattern of offending. The Head of School along with the Programme Committee will make decisions based on results, and a possible further interview with the applicant to assess whether the applicant can:

Demonstrate a mature and positive approach to study, commitment and motivation to succeed

Be able to relate to and communicate with young children, their parents and family/whānau

Have no criminal convictions which would preclude them from working with children in a position of trust and no medical, physical, or psychological condition which could preclude working with children.

Displaying respect for persons, for cultural and social values of New Zealand, for the law and for the views of others

Be mentally and physically fit enough to carry out the teaching role safely and satisfactorily

Applicants must be able to attend teaching practicum at specified times and places

All applicants will be notified in writing of the outcome of their application.

Successful applicants will be reminded that while they have been accepted into the programme based on the best judgment of the selection panel, it is the Teaching Council of Aotearoa New Zealand that will assess suitability for teacher certification upon successful completion of the programme.

Successful applicants will be required to inform the School of Education Programme Committee of all criminal and pending criminal convictions they receive at any point after acceptance onto the programme. Good Character and Fit to be a Teacher declaration will be completed annually to ensure students are given every opportunity to disclose any potential issues.

Unsuccessful applicants will be informed of the reason their application is unsuccessful and provided with information on alternative learning pathways and possible options to enhance future applications.

Special & discretionary admission

Any ākonga who is 20 years of age or older and has not reached the general admission requirements for their intended programme is eligible for Special Admission. Te Pūkenga works with the ākonga to ensure they are prepared for their intended programme. Any ākonga who is not yet 20 years of age and has not reached the general admission requirements for their intended programme may be eligible for Discretionary Admission. In assessing whether to grant Discretionary Admission, the delegated authority focuses on the applicant’s level of preparedness for their intended programme.

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Programme structure

You will need to complete the below 12 courses (360 credits):.

902.526 Professional Inquiry 1: Introduction to Early Childhood Teaching (30 credits)

Develop knowledge, skills and understanding of the professional role of the early childhood teacher and the value of a play based curriculum.

902.529 Professional Inquiry 2: Responsive, Reflective Teaching (30 credits)

Understand and apply the principles of collaborative assessment to reflect on and refine your teaching practice along with appropriately planning for and documenting children’s learning.

902.532 Manākitanga Whānaungatanga: Principles and Practices (30 credits)

Develop and extend their own knowledge and understanding of manākitanga and whānaungatanga principles and practices to support professional, respectful and collaborative relationships.

902.533 Hauora, Kotahitanga: Children’s Well-being and Development (30 credits)

Develop knowledge and understanding of the holistic nature of development from conception to six years. You will investigate issues around child protection, food safety and nutrition and other influences on children’s learning and well-being.

902.631 Tūhura Ngā Toi Āhuatanga: Exploring the role of the Expressive Arts in Education (30 credits)

Develop theoretical knowledge and practical skills in the expressive arts in order to foster your own and children’s dispositions, learning and expression in the arts.

902.632 Professional Inquiry 3: The World of the Infant and Toddler (30 credits)

Develop theoretical knowledge and practical skills in respecting the unique nature of infant and toddler care and education.

902.633 Te Reo Ataata Mātauranga: Early Childhood Curriculum (30 credits)

Deepen understanding, knowledge, and skills of working with children to promote language, literacy, numeracy and science development in early childhood settings in Aotearoa/New Zealand within a critical pedagogical framework.

902.634 Professional Inquiry 4: Teacher Identity, Learning Environments  and Nature Pedagogy (30 credits)

Examine teacher identity and your own personal philosophy about learning environments and exploring the value of being outside in nature. Investigate topics of environmental sustainability, planning for children’s holistic development, excursions and the importance of fundamental movement skills for development.

902.737 Professional Inquiry 5: Practice-based Research (30 credits)

Develop the knowledge, skills and understanding in research methodology to undertake a research project on a topic of your choosing to improve your personal practice in an early childhood setting.

902.741 Creativity and Technology in a Community of Learning (30 credits)

Develop understanding of exploring social studies as a means to foster your own and children’s creativity, including the reflective use of technology.

902.742 Influences of Politics, Educational Ideas and Social Justice Issues on Early Childhood Education (30 credits)

Investigate and critically reflect on political, social justice and other influences on the evolvement of early childhood education in Aotearoa New Zealand.

902.743 Professional Inquiry 6: Leadership and Professional Responsibility (30 credits)

Develop knowledge, skills, and understanding of management and leadership practices within early childhood education and professional responsibility reflecting te Tiriti o Waitangi principles. Articulate and represent your learning journey, growth and achievement in meeting all the Standards for the Teaching Profession as outlined by the NZ Teaching Council of Aotearoa New Zealand).

Do you want to study a single course, without enrolling into the full programme?

Courses within some of our programmes may be offered as an individual Certificate of Proficiency (COP). Programme entry requirements and course fees apply. For more information, please speak to our friendly Ask Me! team.

Further training or study

• Graduate Certificate in Activity Based Learning (Level 7)
• Graduate Certificate in Applied eLearning (Level 7)

Career opportunities

Early childhood teaching, management of early childhood centres or home-based care co-ordinator. For potential salaries visit careers.govt.nz .

See why more people choose early childhood at MIT

My advice to anyone looking to study would be just hang in there. It's worth it in the end, and you deserve it."

Jasmine Bellamy MIT graduate

My friends encouraged me to study at MIT. The lecturers here are amazing. I have never met lecturers that are so enthusiastic. I love the ako in our classrooms and the diversity of our lecturers who bring fun, wisdom and knowledge to our classroom. The best part is the way they encourage student relationships with each other. I value my classmates and we are an amazing team together.

It is an eye-opening experience working alongside an Associate Teacher. Assisting and engaging with the Tamariki is the highlight of my week. If you want adventure in a classroom, excitement from engaging with the Tamariki, and linking your theory to your school-based learning, nothing beats that. I am already building lasting relationships with my principal, the teachers and the students.

I encourage you to come along and be a part of this great course.

Go for gold, it is the best place.

MIT will change your life."

La-Rochelle Bernstein MIT student

I chose the Primary Pasifika course because as a pākehā I have noticed there is not enough cultural awareness within schools, we need more of it. This course provides an opportunity for us to deepen and enrich our understanding and create a safe space for students to bring who they are into the classroom, and not leave their culture at home.

MIT provided the exact course I was looking for – ticked all the boxes and exceeded well above my expectations. This course provides a hands-on approach to learning. I know I will be a great teacher because of it.

What I also love is the community they have built and the ongoing support and encouragement they give to help us achieve, not because they have to, but because they want to. They support us every step of the way and treat us not just as a student but as part of their whānau. I can't think of any other place that would provide this much support.

We need more Primary Pasifika teachers; it does not matter where you come from if you have the opportunity to change a life and make a difference in this world for our tamariki, take it.

Be brave, be bold, our tamariki need you more then you realise.”

Lexi Williams MIT student

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Education and Social Work

Bachelor of Early Childhood Studies BECSt

Develop specialist knowledge of the vital early years of children’s lives, from birth to eight years old.

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Programme overview

This degree encompasses a broad study of early childhood education and social contexts relevant for students from birth to eight years of age.

We offer a range of hands-on courses covering te ao Māori perspectives, diversity and inclusion, human development, educational psychology, child development and professional communication and practice. Through these you will develop expert understanding of the complex and vital early years of children’s lives.

Practical placements each year in early childhood and other educational settings will allow you to explore areas of interest and refine and develop relevant professional skills. You will spend a total of 24 weeks over three years in a range of educational settings, allowing you to gain a range of practical experience and form professional connections.

This is an excellent foundation degree. It will prepare you for a career in a range of educational settings and in policy and leadership roles in New Zealand and overseas.

View and download our BECSt flyer here.

If you decide to pursue a teaching career in New Zealand, you can gain registration by adding a one-year Graduate Diploma in Teaching (Early Childhood Education) or Graduate Diploma in Teaching (Primary). Learn more about becoming a teacher here.

Programme structure

• Entry requirements
• Fees and scholarships

Our Bachelor of Early Childhood Studies is a three-year programme consisting of face-to-face, online and practice-based teaching and learning.

To complete a BECSt degree, you must pass courses totalling at least 360 points. At least 330 of these points must be from the listed BECSt schedule, 15 points from courses offered in either the General Education open schedule or the General Education faculty schedule approved for this degree, and in your first year of study, you must complete 15 points from the faculty’s Waipapa Taumata Rau course offering.

For all required courses and inforamation about elective courses on offer, please visit our   programme and enrolment Information.

Most students need to take one General Education course .

Students should also be aware of the University’s Academic English Language Requirement .

Sample programme structure

Year 1 120 points.

• Code: WTR 100 Name: Waipapa Taumata Rau Type: Core taught Points: 15 pts
• Code: EDPROFM 100 Name: Te Ao Māori - Te Kākano Type: Compulsory core course Points: 15 pts
• Code: EDPROFST 104 Name: Early Childhood Education in Aotearoa Type: Compulsory core course Points: 15 pts
• Code: EDUC 115 Name: Introduction to child and adolescent Development Type: Compulsory core course Points: 15 pts
• Code: EDUC 106 Name: History of Education and Society Type: Compulsory core course Points: 15 pts
• Code: EDUC 105 Name: Teaching: Tales and Traditions Type: Compulsory core course Points: 15 pts
• Code: SOCWORK 111 Name: Professional Communication Skills Type: Compulsory core course Points: 15 pts
• Code: EDPROFST 115 Name: Professional Early Childhood Practice 1 Type: Compulsory degree component Points: 15 pts

Year 2 120 points

• Name: General Education Type: General Education course Points: 15 pts
• Code: EDPROFST 211 Name: Engaging with Infants and Toddlers Type: Compulsory core course Points: 15 pts
• Code: EDCURRIC 109 Name: Languages and Literacies Education 1 Type: Compulsory core course Points: 15 pts
• Code: EDPROFST 215 Name: Professional Early Childhood Practice 2 Type: Compulsory core course Points: 15 pts
• Code: EDUC 221 Name: Child Development Type: Compulsory core course Points: 15 pts
• Code: EDUC 223 Name: Educational Psychology Type: Compulsory core course Points: 15 pts
• Code: EDUC 203 Name: Pasifika Education and Diversity Type: Compulsory core course Points: 15 pts
• Code: Choose from a range of courses available for this degree or another bachelors degrees at this University Name: Elective course Type: Elective course Points: 15 pts

Year 3 120 points

• Code: EDUC 300 Name: Understanding Childhood Type: Compulsory core course Points: 15 pts
• Code: EDUC 324 Name: Inclusive Education and Philosophy Type: Compulsory core course Points: 15 pts
• Code: EDCURRIC 216 Name: Hauora Type: Compulsory core course Points: 15 pts
• Code: EDPROFST 396 Name: Professional Early Childhood Practice 3 Type: Compulsory core course Points: 15 pts
• Code: EDPROFST 209 Name: Developing Learning Communities Type: Compulsory core course Points: 15 pts
• Code: EDUCSW 303 Name: Research and Professional Practice Type: Compulsory core course Points: 15 pts
• Code: EDUCSW 302 Name: Service Learning Type: Compulsory core course Points: 15 pts
• Code: Choose from a range of courses available for this degree or another bachelors degrees at this University Name: Elective Course Type: Elective course Points: 15 pts

Subjects available in this programme

• Early Childhood Studies

2024 entry requirements

My highest qualification is from:, secondary school qualifications.

If you're joining us from secondary school, here's what you need to enter the programme.

You are guaranteed entry to this programme if you meet these requirements.

• First, you must meet the University Entrance (UE) standard .
• You must also meet the rank score for this programme. Not sure about your rank score? Use our rank score calculator .
• You may need to have studied certain subjects or achieved credits in particular subjects.
• Some programmes have additional requirements, such as an interview, portfolio or references.

Guaranteed rank score, subject and other requirements

If your rank score is slightly lower than the guaranteed score, we encourage you to still apply. We will consider your application if places are available. If you don’t meet the requirements, you may be able to apply under our Undergraduate Targeted Admission Schemes.

• Qualification NCEA National Certificate of Educational Achievement Score required 150
• Qualification CIE Cambridge International Examinations Score required 150
• Qualification IB International Baccalaureate Score required 26

Read more about entry requirements for New Zealand secondary school applicants .

Further requirements

You will be required to consent to disclosure of criminal convictions as part of the application process. Note: While a record of criminal convictions will not prevent attainment of your qualification, it may limit your options with regards to available practical learning opportunities.

Tertiary qualifications

If you've studied at a tertiary institution, here's what you need to enter the programme.

You can transfer from another tertiary institution, or another University of Auckland qualification, if you meet these requirements.

Minimum grade requirements

These are the likely grades required, but they do not guarantee entry. Applicants may require higher grades to gain entry to this programme.

Calculate your Grade Point Average

Calculate your Grade Point Equivalent

See information about prior tertiary study requirements

Other pathways to study

You could be eligible for another programme , or check out these alternative pathways:

• See if you meet the criteria for the Undergraduate Targeted Admission Scheme (UTAS) .
• Bridge your educational gap with a preparation and foundation programme .
• If you are under 20, have no formal University Entrance (UE) qualification, and are a New Zealand or Australian citizen or permanent resident you can apply for discretionary entrance .
• If you can demonstrate outstanding academic achievement and maturity, we offer admission to applicants under 16 .

My highest qualification is from this country or region:

You need to have one of the following:.

• International Baccalaureate Diploma  with a minimum total score of 24.
• General Certificate of Education (GCE) Advanced Level . You must have completed a minimum of three A-Level subjects. 
• Cambridge International Examinations (CIE) . You must have completed a minimum of three A-level subjects.

GCE ‘A’ Level requirements apply to ‘A’ Level qualifications examined by bodies such as AQA, OCR, Edexcel, WJEC, CCEA and Pearson Education Limited taken outside of New Zealand.

Guaranteed grade, subject and other requirements

These are the grades required for guaranteed entry to this programme. If your grades are slightly lower, we encourage you to still apply. We will consider your application if places are available.

No bands less than 5.5

See alternative English language requirements

You can transfer from another tertiary institution if you meet these requirements.

You need to have the following:

One year successful bachelor-degree level study at a recognised university (or similar institution) overseas. 

• If you have an offer of place from us that is conditional on meeting English language requirements, you may be considered for English Pathway courses from the University of Auckland English Language Academy (ELA)

How much does a Bachelor of Early Childhood Studies cost per year?

Fees are set in advance of each calendar year and will be updated on this website. Fees are inclusive of 15% GST, but do not include the Student Services Fee, course books, travel and health insurance, or living costs. Amounts shown are indicative only. In addition to the tuition fees, there is a Student Services Fee of $8.88 per point, estimated at $1,065.60 for full-time study (120 points). Fees will be confirmed upon completion of enrolment into courses.

*Please note: amounts shown are indicative and estimates only.

See course fees for each faculty

Find out about financial support information

Scholarships and awards.

Find out about the scholarships you may be eligible for.

Student loans and allowances

Are you a New Zealand citizen or resident? You could be eligible for a student loan or allowance.

Cost of living

Get an idea of how much accommodation and general living in Auckland will cost.

Please note: We will consider late applications if places are still available. International students should start the application process as early as possible to allow sufficient time to apply for a visa.

Application closing dates

Start dates.

Here are the start dates for the programme.

Other important dates

See important dates for the academic year , including orientation, enrolment, study breaks, exams, and graduation.

How to apply

Applying for an undergraduate programme? Check out our step-by-step guide.

Where could this programme take you?

A BECSt signifies workplace knowledge and skills applicable in varied domestic and global contexts. Through placements you will encounter practices relevant to education, health, and community work. A BECSt will not qualify you for teacher registration but it provides a pathway into a graduate teaching qualification or postgraduate research.

Further study options

• Graduate Diploma in Teaching (Early Childhood Education)

Student career planning service

Once you become a student at the University, you can get help with planning and developing your career from Career Development and Employability Services .

Early Childhood Studies is a growing and evolving field, largely due to the increasing recognition of how critical the early years of a child’s life are for long-term wellbeing and development. Our programme in Early Childhood Studies develops knowledge, skills and dispositions relevant to employment in a wide range of early-years contexts and organisations.

The Bachelor of Early Childhood Studies is a scholarly, child-centred and innovative programme, incorporating theory and practical placements across the three years to enable graduates to appreciate and understand theories, ideas, concepts and practices related to the field of early childhood studies.

The practical experiences (practice-based learning and service learning) in early childhood context settings will prepare graduates to work in a range of early childhood-based services and organisations both domestically and abroad. Students will encounter a range of practices during placements relevant to the early childhood years including education, health, and community-based contexts. This wide exposure will enhance graduates’ ability to enter the workforce in many different settings across a range of roles. Graduates of the BECSt programme will be cognisant of the interdisciplinary nature of early childhood contexts and able to critically analyse and respond to issues relevant to a range of organisations and communities. They will be culturally responsive, critical, reflective, and committed to social justice.

This programme provides a strong disciplinary pathway into a graduate teaching qualification or postgraduate research in the field of early childhood studies. (Please note: this qualification will not allow graduates to qualify for teacher registration).

Key Information for Students

Compare qualifications and academic information across different New Zealand institutions.

Do you need help?

Your online help and support centre. Search our frequently asked questions.

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You can phone us directly.

Teaching (Early Childhood)

Why study Teaching (Early Childhood)?

Our Early Childhood Education integrated programme contains seven major themes: bicultural development; cultural diversity; equity and social justice; inclusion; parents and whānau; transition to school; and infants and toddlers.

Teaching at The University of Waikato is a qualification that sets you up to become a skilled and reflective teacher. We produce qualified early childhood education teachers who are in high demand both in New Zealand and around the world.

We offer both full-time and part-time study options to work around your lifestyle and commitments.

• School of Education

Hamilton, Online

Study Teaching (Early Childhood) in these qualifications

• Bachelor of Teaching
• Graduate Diploma in Teaching
• Postgraduate Diploma in Teaching
• Master of Teaching and Learning

Start dates

• January and July ( Graduate Diploma in Teaching , Postgraduate Diploma in Teaching , Master of Teaching and Learning )
• February/March ( Bachelor of Teaching )

Scholarships and prizes

Visit our  Scholarship Finder for information about possible scholarships.

Browse Early Childhood education papers

Subject regulations.

Teaching Subject regulations

What our students are saying

Te kura toi tangata school of education, you’re viewing this website as a domestic student.

You’re currently viewing the website as a domestic student, you might want to change to international.

You're a domestic student if you are:

• A citizen of New Zealand or Australia
• A New Zealand permanent resident

You're an International student if you are:

• Intending to study on a student visa
• Not a citizen of New Zealand or Australia

Study Early Childhood Education

If you have a passion and enthusiasm for young children's learning, apply for admission to a teaching programme endorsed in Early Childhood Education. Graduates will be qualified to teach in a variety of early childhood settings in New Zealand and overseas.

Choose from the following qualifications

Early Childhood Education is an endorsement for the Bachelor of Teaching and for the Master of Teaching and Learning.

Bachelor of Teaching (Early Childhood Education)

A three-year undergraduate degree programme for those who do not hold a degree.

The Bachelor of Teaching endorsed in Early Childhood Education includes professional teaching issues, curriculum, educational theory and practice, and electives in a chosen subject area.  Teaching experience – placements in early childhood settings – is also included.

Offered in Dunedin and Invercargill.

Master of Teaching and Learning (Early Childhood Education)

This intensive one-year programme is designed for people who already have a degree.

The programme involves study of six compulsory papers addressing education and pedagogy (including diversity and inclusion), curriculum and professional experience. It includes a minimum of 80 days of professional experience in a range of early childhood settings. This involves working with a mentor teacher in block and weekly placements across an extended academic year (January to December).

A B grade average in the final year (300-level) major subject requirement of your undergraduate degree, or in the course components of a postgraduate qualification, is required for admission.

Offered in Dunedin only.

Find out more about the content of the Early Childhood programme

Bachelor of Teaching (BTchg)

Master of Teaching and Learning (MTchgLn)

How to apply for a Teacher Education programme

Application dates and information on how to apply

For questions about our teaching programmes

Email [email protected] Tel 0800 TO TEACH (0800 868 3224)

For support with the online application process

AskOtago Service Portal Tel 0800 80 80 98

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Early Childhood Teaching - Bachelor of Education

Want to work as an early childhood teacher in an early childhood centre? The Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood Teaching) prepares you for this rewarding career.

This specialty is designed for students who want to work as an early childhood teacher in an early childhood centre. You’ll develop your understanding of early childhood education and the early childhood teaching national curriculum, Te Whariki.

If you want to specialise in working with Pacific children, you can complete your practicum courses at a Pacific ECE centre, and study courses that develop your skills to be an effective early childhood teacher working with Pacific children.

Talk to us about your study options

Thinking about studying at AUT? Book a time with us to discuss your study options.

BOOK A SESSION

This is part of the Bachelor of Education ([Specialty] Teaching) .

Bachelor of Education ([Specialty] Teaching)

Download programme guides

• Culture & Society (2024)
• Culture & Society (2025)
• What you study
• Career opportunities
• Related programmes
• ECET504 ECE Practicum I - Professional Relationships
• ECET505 ECE Practicum II - Teacher Identity
• EDUC513 Te Reo Māori and Tikanga I
• EDUC514 Te Reo Māori and Tikanga II
• EDUC550 People, Whānau and Communities of Aotearoa
• EDUC551 Development of the Child in Aotearoa
• EDUC554 Past and Present Perspectives of Aotearoa
• EDCR521 Te Whāriki
• EDCR522 Mana Atua | Wellbeing
• EDCR523  Mana Whenua | Belonging
• ECET607 ECE Practicum III - Design for Learning
• ECET608 ECE Practicum IV - Te Tiriti o Waitangi Partnership
• EDUC515 Te Reo Māori and Tikanga III
• EDUC617 Ka Hāpaitia: Māori Success and Aspirations in Education
• EDUC624 Tapasā: Working with Pacific Learners*
• EDUC655 Ako: Learning and Teaching
• EDCR603  Mana Aotūroa | Exploration
• EDCR625 Mana Reo | Communication
• EDCR626  Mana Tangata | Contribution
• ECET704 ECE Practicum V - Learning Focussed Culture*
• ECET706 ECE Practicum VI - Professional Learning*
• EDUC618 Te Reo Māori and Tikanga IV
• EDUC713 Inclusive Education
• EDUC720 Global Citizenship Education
• EDCR702 Justice, Diversity and Curriculum
• EDCR703 Infants and Toddlers

Option courses you can include in Year 3

• EDCR714 Language and Culture, or
• EDCR719 Pacific Gagana and Aganu'u*
• EDCR720 Integrated Curriculum Inquiry, or
• EDCR736 Pacific Talanoa*

*Students who complete EDUC624, EDCR719, EDCR736 courses along with their Professional Practice courses ECET704 & ECET706 at a Pacific early learning service can have their qualification endorsed with the Pacific specialty. These courses will develop the skills, knowledge and understanding to be a responsive early childhood teacher working with Pacific communities.

Practicum teaching placements

All students are enrolled into a practicum course each semester where they are placed alongside an associate teacher in an early learning service. These practicum placements are connected to the Teaching Council - Standards for the Teaching Profession and provide students with a coherent pathway of study which grows in complexity and length overtime. This ensures students become effective, responsive and reflective teachers.

As part of these placements students will work with children from 0-5 years. Centres include a diverse range of early childhood education and full daycare centres, kindergartens and community-based preschool facilities.

Ready to enrol in your courses?

Find out how you can enrol in the courses and classes for your programme, whether you’ve just joined AUT as a new student or you’re already studying with us. If you’re looking for more info on a specific course use our course search .

• Graduates are eligible to apply for provisional teacher registration
• Teaching in an early childhood centre
• With experience, management of an early childhood centre

Find out more about industry trends, job descriptions and what employers may be looking for.

Early Childhood Education Careers

Other specialties in the Bachelor of Education ([Specialty] Teaching)

• Primary Teaching

• Prepares you for a career as an early childhood teacher, working with children from 0 to 5 years
• Develop key skills in teaching the curriculum
• 25 weeks of practicum teaching placements in a range of early learning services across Auckland
• Someone who enjoys interacting with children
• An effective communicator
• Kind and empathetic

The information on this page was correct at time of publication. For a comprehensive overview of AUT qualifications, please refer to the Academic Calendar .