Level 2 Early Childhood Education
12ECE Course DescriptionTeacher in Charge: Miss S. Bryson.
This course is offered in partnership with Manukau Institute of Technology (MIT). Students who earn a minimum of 21 credits will receive a ‘Certificate of Achievement in Early Childhood Education (Level 2)'. You will learn about a range of topics to help you to understand how infants, toddlers and young children grow, learn and develop.
You will:
• develop an understanding of how to care for young children and learn about their needs and development
• develop a greater understanding and experience of early childhood education
• gain skills useful to employment and/or life experience involving interaction with children
• begin your preparation for advancement into tertiary education
• see early childhood education as a possible career pathway
Course Overview
Term 1
This course begins with an introduction to key health issues affecting young children, including communicable diseases and environmental factors that impact their overall wellbeing. Students will explore the principles of personal and environmental hygiene as essential practices in promoting children's health in early childhood settings. The course also covers the role of immunisation programmes and introduces a range of community health services that work to protect and enhance the wellbeing of tamariki. Through this focus, learners will gain the knowledge and skills to support healthy, safe, and nurturing environments for young children.
Students will develop an understanding of the basic care needs of young children, along with the impacts these needs have on their overall wellbeing. Learners will explore how environmental factors and health and safety practices influence the quality of care provided. The course also includes practical learning, where students will describe and demonstrate appropriate care practices for infants, toddlers, and young children, ensuring culturally responsive and safe approaches are upheld.
Term 2
This term equips students with knowledge of age-appropriate nutritional requirements that support healthy eating for young children. Learners will explore the fundamentals of balanced diets and how to meet developmental needs through food. As part of the course, students will also plan a nutritious three-day meal plan tailored to the specific needs of a nominated child, promoting practical application of healthy eating principles in early childhood settings. It also explores the vital role of secure attachment in early childhood development. Students will learn to recognise common attachment behaviours and patterns in young children, and understand how these influence their sense of security and belonging. The course also examines key transition moments—such as starting ECE or moving between routines and provides practical strategies for supporting children and their whānau/families during these times. Learners will gain valuable tools to help tamariki feel settled, confident, and connected in their learning environment.
Term 3
This term, students will explore how parenting practices and beliefs about caring for young children have changed over time. Through examining both historical and contemporary influences on childrearing, learners will gain insight into the diverse ways care is understood and practiced. A key focus of the course is self-reflection—students will consider their own whakapapa, family history, culture, values, and beliefs, and how these shape their perspectives on the learning and care of young children. This course supports students in developing cultural awareness, empathy, and a deeper understanding of their own identity as emerging professionals in early childhood education.
Term 4
This course introduces students to the wide range of support services and networks available in the community that assist young children and their whānau/families. Students will explore how these services contribute to the wellbeing of families and identify how to access support when needed. The course also encourages personal reflection, as students consider their own support needs and how various community agencies and services can help meet them. By building awareness of both professional and personal support systems, students are empowered to become informed, compassionate caregivers and advocates for others.
Pathway Career Pathways