New Zealand Certificate in Early Childhood Education and Care (Introductory Skills)
Take the first step towards a rewarding career working with children.
The New Zealand Certificate in Early Childhood Education and Care will prepare you to participate in the care and education of infants, toddlers and young children in entry-level carer roles, and for higher level study leading to a teaching qualification.
Taught by supportive tutors in a practical learning environment, the programme covers: early childhood learning and development progression; bicultural framework for childhood learning in Aotearoa New Zealand; planning learning experiences for young children; health, safety and wellbeing in the early childhood environment; ethical responsibilities and professional practice; basic Te Reo Maori and tikanga Maori specific to the early childhood environment.
The programme also includes a work placement practicum in an early childhood setting where you can apply what you're learning. 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 application 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 2026
The programme has open entry. English Language requirements apply.
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.
Two satisfactory character references are required. These should be from persons in positions of trust or responsibility such as an employer, pastor, kaumātua or kuia. References from family/whānau or friends will not be accepted.
Prior to enrolment, applicants will be required to complete a New Zealand Police Request and Consent form. The form will be sent to the New Zealand Police Vetting Service and returned in confidence to Ara.
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
- 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 New Zealand University Entrance?
If you have met New Zealand University Entrance requirements or acceptable alternatives as defined by NZQA you are not required to provide evidence of English Language proficiency.
Overall IELTS 5.0 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 provides the skills and knowledge needed for entry-level positions in a range of early childhood contexts. These positions provide experience that supports further study towards a teaching qualification.
Study pathways
The New Zealand Certificate in Early Childhood Education and Care (Level 4) is the ideal next step to progress your studies.
Recommended school subjects
- English
New Zealand Certificate in Early Childhood Education and Care (Introductory Skills)
Take the first step towards a rewarding career working with children.
| Information | |
|---|---|
| Type | Certificate |
| Code | NZ2849 |
| Next starts | January 2026 |
| Application close date | January |
| May be available for Study Visa? | Yes |
| Credits | 60 |
| Level | 3 |
| Additional Equipment/Fees | Advised on enrolment |
| May be eligible for Studylink? | Yes |
| Reference | NZ2849-ECEC |
Fees for 2026
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
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.
Two satisfactory character references are required. These should be from persons in positions of trust or responsibility such as an employer, pastor, kaumātua or kuia. References from family/whānau or friends will not be accepted.
Prior to enrolment, applicants will be required to complete a New Zealand Police Request and Consent form. The form will be sent to the New Zealand Police Vetting Service and returned in confidence to Ara.
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, 425 KB
- International Application Form PDF, 357 KB
- Early Childhood Education Additional Requirements Form PDF, 130 KB
- Referee report 1 PDF, 228 KB
- Referee report 2 PDF, 228 KB
Area of Interest
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