Study to become a qualified early childhood teacher
New Zealand teacher registration is the benchmark for qualified early childhood teachers in Aotearoa. Whether you’re new to study, or have a degree, our study programs will support your career goals.
For a limited time, our NZ Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care (Level 5), the first year of our Bachelor of Teaching (ECE) and our Graduate Diploma in Teaching (ECE) fees are significantly reduced by over 60%! Graduates of the Bachelor of Teaching (ECE) and Graduate Diploma in Teaching (ECE) qualifications are eligible to apply for NZ Teacher Registration.
Apply today to secure your spot!
Terms and Conditions:
Applicants must complete the application process by Friday 27th February 2026. All requested documentation must be submitted prior to this date.
Study must commence during the following dates for each programme:
NZ Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care (Level 5) - From Monday, 15th September 2025 to Monday, 30th March 2026
Bachelor of Teaching (ECE) - From Monday, 5th January 2026 to Monday, 30th March 2026
Graduate Diploma in Teaching (ECE) - From Monday, 5th January 2026 to Monday, 30th March 2026
Reduced fees for the Bachelor of Teaching (ECE) are only available for the first stage (first year) of the programme.
Limited places available. Reduced fees will cease when the cap has been reached.
Offer valid for domestic students only.
Bachelor of Teaching (Early Childhood Education)
This qualification prepares students for a rewarding career in the field of early childhood teaching. NZTC students gain the skills and knowledge needed to practice with confidence in a diverse socio-cultural context and are eligible to apply for New Zealand teacher registration with the Teaching Council of Aotearoa New Zealand.
Graduate Diploma in Teaching (Early Childhood Education)
Degree graduates from any discipline are enabled to gain specialist knowledge in the area of early childhood education with this qualification. Featuring a strong practical component, students benefit from hands-on learning and working alongside study commitments. Upon completion, graduates are eligible to apply for New Zealand teacher registration.
New Zealand Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care (Level 5)
Laying a strong foundation of theoretical and practical knowledge in the field of early childhood education, this program equips students to become resourceful and reflective professionals, competent in the key areas of learning. These include professional studies, development and learning, and early years’ pedagogy.
Jinjian Yan
New Zealand Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care (Level 5)
"I knew that when I started studying again, I had to be able to work at the same time. I can't just hit the books without working - I've got two young children to support. New Zealand Tertiary College offers people like me a wonderful opportunity to study and build up a new career through flexible study and reduced fees."
Chloe Burgess
Bachelor of Teaching (Early Childhood Education)
“I always knew I wanted to pursue a career in the ECE sector after having my own children. Colleagues highly recommended studying through NZTC, and the reduced fee offering was an amazing help with deciding to switch careers and take steps to become a qualified teacher.”
Karunya Ravikumar
Graduate Diploma in Teaching (Early Childhood Education)
“I chose NZTC because it’s an NZQA Category 1 tertiary education provider with a reputation for providing high-quality early childhood education programs. Also, working full-time in an early childcare centre in Wellington and with family commitments, I wanted a study program that was flexible and affordable.”
Apply to enrol with NZTC
Ready to apply?
Simply fill out a few details below. From there, you can either go straight to our full application form or wait for one of our team to get in contact with you in the next few days.
If you're an international student, you can apply online with our online application form. Click here to apply as an international student.