Onshore ECE Education - HEMANT KAUSHAL

Early Childhood Education (ECE) – a brief introduction

ECE deals with providing education and care for babies and children up to the age of SIX. The provision of ECE education happens via privately owned pre-schools and government operated childcare centres. This sector is regulated by the government.

As an ECE teacher you are not expected to engage in formal and conventional teaching and neither will you be a glorified baby-sitter. In New Zealand, our approach towards ECE is children learn through play with the guidance and support of qualified ECE teachers.

ECE is taught and implemented through a government approved curriculum called ‘Te Whariki’. Both government operated and privately owned ECE centres must subscribe to this curriculum. This ensures that all children receive a standardized guidance in their most important and formative years.

Does working as an ECE teacher require me to be registered?

All qualified ECE teachers must be registered with the Teaching Council of Aotearoa New Zealand. They need to renew their registration periodically and give evidence that they have been actively involved in the profession since their last renewal.

What are the career opportunities available in this sector?

Once you have completed a recognized and specialized ECE qualification and got registered as an ECE teacher, you can start working as an ECE teacher. The Educate Gazette provides more information on the type of jobs available and salaries offered.

Based on the information available on the Careers website ECE teachers typically earn between $48,000 and $78,000 per annum.

The Office of the Early Childhood Education gives more information on pay scales and eligibilities.

What will my work schedule look like?

ECE teachers typically work for 32-40 hours/week between Monday-Friday and between the hours of 6:30 am – 6:30 pm. Yes, no weekend work or early/late shifts and no bringing your work back home with you! This profession offers you not only the opportunity to shape the future of young children but also affords you a great work-life balance.

This sounds fantastic! How do I become an ECE teacher in New Zealand?

To become a an ECE teacher, you need to complete either a Graduate Diploma or a master’s program in ECE. We can help choose the best suitable option for you, based on your previous work experience and qualifications.

What are the costs involved?

Tuition Fees usually range between $30,000 - $40,000 for the whole program. Additionally, you will need to provide evidence to Immigration New Zealand that you have $20,000/year to support yourself. This course offers a great ROI and hence is a wonderful investment if you are looking to advance in your career.

Does New Zealand offer any healthcare and education assistance?

Yes, you and your family may be eligible for free healthcare just like New Zealand citizens. Your school-going kids will be treated as local students and be eligible for free schooling (no tuition fees).

What are the leave entitlements be like?

New Zealand offers an enviable work-life balance where you can finish work, head home, change and hit the beach for your evening walk/jog, on a working day! Employees are eligible for 10 sick leaves/year, 4-weeks of annual leave, and other entitlements like maternity leave, bereavement leave etc.

Sure, how do I get admitted to an ECE program?

You must have a bachelor’s degree to be able to seek admission. This bachelor’s degree can be from any background. Yes! Even if you are an engineer and want a career change, you can seek admission in an ECE program. You must also have an IELTS score of at least 7.0 in each module, excellent references (both professional and personal), and a clean police record. New Zealand Tertiary College, ICL Graduate Business School, and Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology are some institutes that offer ECE Teaching courses.

Can my spouse and kids accompany me while I study?

Yes, your spouse will be eligible to get a work visa that will allow them to work full-time in any occupation of their choice. Kids (where eligible) will be able to apply for dependent child visas.

So, what happens after I finish my course?

Upon the successful completion of your course you will be eligible to apply for a work visa (that allows you to work for any employer). The duration of this visa may be 24-36 months. Your family will also be able to extend their respective visas. After having worked for 12-24 months, you may become eligible to submit a residence application.

Early Childhood Education (ECE)