The New Zealand Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care (Field-based) (Level 5) is ideal for students who want to begin a career supporting the education and care of infants, toddlers, and young children. The programme combines classroom learning with extensive field-based experience, allowing students to apply theory in real early childhood settings.

Key reasons to study this programme

• Gain practical experience in licensed early childhood education centres throughout the programme.
• Learn through a blend of classroom teaching, online learning activities, and workplace practice.
• Develop knowledge of New Zealand's Te Wh?riki early childhood curriculum.
• Study child learning and development from birth to six years.
• Learn about Te Tiriti o Waitangi, Te Ao M?ori, and culturally responsive teaching practices.
• Build professional communication, ethical practice, and relationship management skills.
• Excellent pathway into the Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood Teaching) (Level 7).
• Graduate with a nationally recognised NZQA Level 5 qualification.

Programme Structure / Subjects Offered

Students complete five compulsory courses (120 credits):

1. Tikanga Maori and Te Tiriti o Waitangi (20 Credits)

Topics include:

• Maori perspectives in education.
• Te Tiriti o Waitangi principles.
• Bicultural teaching practices.
• Supporting M?ori learners. 

2. Belonging, Health and Well-being (20 Credits)

Students learn:

• Child wellbeing.
• Safe and inclusive learning environments.
• Children's rights.
• Legislative and regulatory requirements.
• Health and safety practices.

3. Learning and Development (0–6 Years) (25 Credits)

Topics include:

• Child development theories.
• Teaching and learning approaches.
• Historical influences on early childhood education.
• Developmental milestones. 

4. Early Childhood Curriculum in Aotearoa (25 Credits)

Students study:

• Te Whariki curriculum.
• Learning through play.
• Curriculum planning.
• M?ori and Pasifika education.
• Developing a personal teaching philosophy.

5. Professional Relationships (30 Credits)

Topics include:

• Professional communication.
• Building relationships with children and families.
• Cultural competence.
• Ethical practice.
• Reflective practice.
• Supporting children's language, culture, and identity.

Practical Placement

A major feature of the programme is workplace learning.

Students complete:

• Two days each week in an approved early childhood centre.
• One full-time placement week (35 hours) during Semester 1.
• Three-week full-time placement (105 hours) in another early childhood setting during Semester 2.

Disciplines Covered

Students develop knowledge and practical skills in:

• Early Childhood Education
• Child Development
• Infant and Toddler Education
• Learning through Play
• Curriculum Planning
• Te Whariki
• Te Tiriti o Waitangi
• Te Ao Maori
• M?ori and Pasifika Education
• Health and Wellbeing
• Professional Practice
• Child Protection
• Cultural Competence
• Family and Community Engagement
• Reflective Practice
• Professional Communication.

Programme Highlights

• Category 1 NZQA provider.
• Strong field-based learning model.
• Extensive practical placement experience.
• Blend of classroom, online learning, and workplace practice.
• Study New Zealand's nationally recognised Te Whariki curriculum.
• Focus on bicultural education and Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
• Small class sizes and experienced lecturers.
• Pathway into the Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood Teaching).
• Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) available.
• Nationally recognised Level 5 qualification.

Career Outcomes

Graduates may work in a range of early childhood settings, including:

• Early Childhood Educator
• Early Childhood Education Support Worker
• Centre-based Teacher Aide
• Home-based Educator
• Private Nanny
• Hospital-based Play Specialist Assistant
• Parent-led Early Childhood Services
• M?ori or Pasifika Early Childhood Services
• Community-based Early Childhood Programmes

Latest Updates / Special Requirements

• The programme aligns with the first year of MIT's Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood Teaching), providing a clear pathway into degree study.
• Practical placement is compulsory and organised in partnership with licensed early childhood centres.
• International students must attend face-to-face classes and cannot enrol in a fully online option.
• A Compulsory Student Services Fee (CSSF) is payable in addition to tuition fees.
• Programme delivery is subject to minimum enrolments and academic approval.
• Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is available for eligible applicants.

Student Visa Requirements

International students must obtain a valid New Zealand Student Visa before commencing study.

Applicants are generally required to provide:

• Offer of Place from Manukau Institute of Technology.
• Proof of payment or financial capacity to cover tuition fees.
• Evidence of sufficient living funds.
• Valid passport.
• English language proficiency meeting NZQA requirements.
• Medical examination and chest X-ray (if required).
• Police clearance certificate (where applicable).
• Approved medical and travel insurance.
• Compliance with all current Immigration New Zealand student visa requirements.