About the programme
The Graduate Diploma in Teaching (Early Childhood Education) is an NZQF Level 7 programme at ICL Graduate Business School that prepares teachers of children aged 0 to 6 in 12 months. It is worth 135 credits.
Designed for people who already hold a bachelor's degree, the diploma launches a career as an early childhood educator in New Zealand. Students build professional knowledge, the attitudes and values expected of a teacher, and the practical skills needed to become capable educators and leaders. Māori and Pacific perspectives run through the content, from the Te Ao Māori paper to the study of child development from Māori, Pacific and global viewpoints.
The programme runs over three 16-week trimesters and consists of nine Level 7 papers of 15 credits each, with no more than three per trimester. Theory and practice together span 48 weeks: 18 weeks of classes only, 23 weeks of classes combined with practicum, and a 7-week block practicum. ICL arranges the early childhood centres where students do their placements.
Because the diploma meets NZQA and Teaching Council of New Zealand standards, graduates can apply for teacher registration. It can also lead on to postgraduate study, such as a Master of Education (ECE), or to specialising in areas such as special needs, tikanga Māori or Pacific knowledge in early learning. Students must bring their own laptop or tablet.
Entry requirements
- A completed NZQF Level 7 bachelor's degree or recognised equivalent
- IELTS Academic 7.0 in every band, or an equivalent approved by NZQA or the Teaching Council
- Literacy and numeracy at University Entrance level
- New Zealand Police vetting under the Vulnerable Children's Act
- A selection interview assessing values, disposition and fitness to teach; two referees must send confidential references directly to ICL beforehand
What you study
- 7301 The Holistic Curriculum
- 7302 Te Ao Māori
- 7303 Teaching as Inquiry
- 7304 Professional Practice Rapunga: Conceptualising Professional Practise in ECE
- 7305 ECE: Histories, Philosophies and Theories
- 7306 Human Development: Māori, Pacific and Global Perspectives
- 7307 The Professional Teacher
- 7308 Infant and Toddler Pedagogies
- 7309 Professional Practice Toa: Conceptualising Professional Growth in ECE
Careers after graduation
- Educator roles in New Zealand early childhood centres
- Leadership positions in the early childhood sector
- Eligibility for teacher registration in New Zealand
- Further study towards a Master of Education (ECE) in New Zealand or overseas
Post-study work visa
About 1 year
Depends on the qualification, the length of study and other Immigration New Zealand requirements.
This description is based on the official programme page, checked on 09/09/2026. Ask an NIU adviser about fees and intake dates — the programme page on the ICL Graduate Business School website