Enter a profession where the demand for teachers is high in New Zealand and overseas. Gain an internationally-recognised degree from the only New Zealand University to rank in the top 50 in the world for Education as a subject.

Our programme will equip you with the knowledge and skills to support young children in their learning and development from birth to the age of five. You will learn how to teach in 21st century early childhood settings where building strong relationships is vital and diversity is welcomed.

The diploma is shaped by a commitment to fairness and social justice. It is underpinned by the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and a determination to ensure equitable outcomes in learning. You will learn alongside a diverse range of students and be taught basic proficiency in te reo Māori.

You will be taught by academics who are experts in their fields of Education and passionate about supporting the next generation of teachers. Courses are taught through a range of methods including face-to-face lectures, tutorials and workshops as well as online learning.

You will undertake a variety of practical experiences in early childhood centres, supported by experienced teachers and university supervisors. This includes twice-weekly practicum placements during the first semester and 13 weeks of full-time practicum in three different centres.

The programme will prepare you to become part of the early childhood community, help you establish connections and support you as you prepare for the transition into teaching. By the end of the programme you will be familiar with the New Zealand early childhood curriculum Te Whāriki and effective teaching practices. You will be eligible to apply for provisional certification as a practising early childhood teacher with the Teaching Council of Aotearoa New Zealand.

Graduate Diploma in Teaching students are eligible for the external TeachNZ Scholarships. Find out more and apply.

Before you begin your teaching journey, there are a few key steps you need to complete, so we recommend applying early. Read about the process on our Info for applicants page.

You must have completed an undergraduate degree at a recognised university (or similar institution) in any discipline with a GPE of 2.4.

Entrance is subject to satisfactory police check/s, safety checks, interview and referees’ reports. You will be required to sit literacy and numeracy tests.

You will also need to provide evidence of meeting the Teaching Council Matatū Aotearoa English Language requirements by IELTS or an approved alternative. Further information on approved alternatives can be found here.