Certificate in Early Childhood Education and Care (Level 4)
Build on your knowledge and skills for the early childhood education sector.
The New Zealand Certificate in Early Childhood Education and Care (Level 4) will prepare you to provide 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, the programme covers: designing learning experiences aligned to socio-cultural theories of learning and development; developing a personal philosophy of professional practice; developing inclusive teaching practices that promote diversity and the place of Maori as tangata whenua; using effective communication strategies to establish healthy relationships in early childhood environments.
The programme also includes a work placement practicum in an early childhood setting where you can apply what you're learning in an authentic work environment. Courses are timetabled during school hours to cater for students with children.
Please note:
- An interview will be held prior to acceptance to assess your suitability for working with children in the community and to ensure that Ara meets the legislative requirements of the Vulnerable Children's Act 2014.
- If your applications is successful, you will be required to complete a New Zealand Police Consent to Disclosure of Information form. The form will be sent to the Police Licensing and Vetting Service, and returned in confidence to Ara. Information on the New Zealand Police Vetting Service is available from the New Zealand Police website.
Fees for 2024
Fees for 2025
NCEA Level 1 (80 credits at Level 1, including 10 Literacy credits and 10 Numeracy credits)
OR New Zealand Certificate in Early Childhood Education and Care (Level 3)
If you have undertaken examinations other than NCEA (e.g. International Baccalaureate, Cambridge Examination), Ara will assess your qualification for academic entry equivalency.
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.
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.
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.
Overall IELTS 5.5 Academic
- 5.0 Listening
- 5.0 Reading
- 5.0 Writing
- 5.0 Speaking
Funding assistance
If you face unexpected financial hardship during your studies, we have several funds that you can apply for. These are designed to enable you to continue your current course of study. We also have a wide range of scholarships and awards that can provide financial assistance.
Find out moreCareer opportunities
This qualification will equip you to work in a range of early childhood education settings as an educator, Kaimahi, support worker, session leader or organiser of parent-led services or playgroups.
Study pathways
Further study options include Level 5 or higher qualifications in Early Childhood Education or teaching.
Recommended school subjects
- English
New Zealand Certificate in Early Childhood Education and Care (Level 4)
Build on your knowledge and skills for the early childhood education sector.
| Information | |
|---|---|
| Type | Certificate |
| Code | NZ2850 |
| Next Starts | July 2025 |
| Application close date | July |
| May be available for Study Visa? | Yes |
| Credits | 60 |
| Level | 4 |
| Additional Equipment/Fees | Advised on enrolment |
| May be eligible for Studylink? | Yes |
| May be eligible for Fees Free? | Yes |
| Reference | NZ2850-STRU |
Fees for 2024
Fees for 2025
Placements or workplace assignments are an integral part of this programme. You don’t need to supply evidence of your Covid vaccination status to apply for or to study this programme but please be aware that some workplaces may require evidence from you that you are fully vaccinated for Covid before allowing you to complete work at their organisation. The number of organisations at which your placement or workplace assignment can be completed may be impacted, depending on your vaccination status.
With an internationally-recognised Ara qualification, the world is your oyster. Our graduates can be found working and making a difference across the globe…
MoreAdditional Entry Requirements
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.
See overview for moreCredit Recognition
If you have prior relevant experience or previous related study credits, you may be eligible for credit recognition towards this qualification.
Find out moreDocuments
- Admission & Enrolment Form PDF, 426 KB
- International Application Form PDF, 363 KB
Area of Interest
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