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Unqualified working in ECE

If you are currently unqualified and are working in an early childhood service, you can choose from these options to complete an early childhood teaching qualification at a teacher education provider:

  • Complete a foundation programme to meet the entry criteria for a teaching qualification or
  • Apply for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) or
  • Complete a centre-based Diploma of Teaching (ECE) or
  • Complete a Bachelor of Teaching (ECE) or
  • Complete a combined degree and early childhood teaching qualification.

You can choose a method of study from a variety of options such as campus-based, online, distance, and centre-based, and whether you study full time or part time.

TeachNZ Early Childhood Scholarships will be available for people interested in studying towards an approved ECE teaching qualification.

Early Childhood Education Scholarships for study in 2010 are now closed.

If you would like more help with your decision making, please contact the Ministry of Education's Early Childhood Teacher Supply Team

Links to more information