Enjoy the creativity of working with young children and help them get a successful start in life. You will learn the skills and knowledge you need to be a confident early childhood teacher.
Learn Te Whāriki, the early childhood curriculum
The Graduate Diploma of Teaching (Early Childhood) is a 10-month, full-time programme with 16 weeks based in early childhood centres. The programme is focused on Te Whāriki, the early childhood curriculum of Aotearoa New Zealand. You will help children transform their complex, diverse, and changing worlds, and empower them to be lifelong learners.
Successful graduates will be able to teach in early childhood centres throughout New Zealand and be eligible for provisional teacher certification with the Teaching Council of Aotearoa New Zealand.
Te Tiriti o Waitangi and te reo Māori
New Zealand teachers live the values of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and use te reo Māori in their teaching practice. During your studies you will strengthen your knowledge of Te Tiriti o Waitangi partnership and practice using te reo Māori in everyday situations.
Practical teaching experience
You will gain valuable experience on three professional practice placements. These are delivered in three practicum blocks:
- a one-week block starting on March 10
- a six-week block starting on May 5
- an eight-week block starting on August 25.
The study experience
Courses are taught over three trimesters, between February and November. You can expect to spend 40 to 50 hours studying each week.
The programme is delivered entirely in person. You’ll need to attend two week-long block courses at the University in Wellington. These are held at the beginning and end of the programme.
Students will be supported by an academic mentor and a professional learning community—a small group of 10 to 15 peers.
Undergraduate preparation for Teacher Education
You may be able to include courses in your undergraduate degree that will help prepare you for a career in teaching, such as courses in te reo Māori, Education, and Educational Psychology.
Read our guidance on preparing to study to become a teacher.
After you graduate
With the Graduate Diploma of Teaching (Early Childhood), you can apply for provisional teacher registration from the Teaching Council of Aotearoa New Zealand. You’ll also be able to apply for teaching positions in New Zealand and overseas.
If your previous academic qualification is from another country, you may need to have it assessed by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority after you complete the GDipTchg(ECE). This review might be needed to help decide your salary.
International scholarships
Many scholarships are available for international students at Victoria University of Wellington. They can help with tuition fees and with accommodation costs.
Support for students
Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington is a welcoming place with great student support. There are all sorts of resources available to help you make the best of your time at university.
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Requirements