Occupational Certificate in Early Childhood Development
Programme Description
The FET Certificate in Early Childhood Development (ECD) at NQF Level 4 is a nationally accredited qualification that prepares learners to work as professional ECD Practitioners. The programme combines theory and practice to develop the skills required to plan, implement, and evaluate inclusive, play-based learning programmes for children from birth to school-going age. Learners will gain competence in supporting children’s holistic development, promoting health and safety, engaging with families and communities, and upholding ethical and professional standards in ECD settings. The qualification is suitable for individuals who are entering the field of early childhood development for the first time, as well as those already working in ECD who seek formal recognition of their experience. Through workplace-based learning and the completion of a Portfolio of Evidence, learners demonstrate their ability to apply knowledge and skills in real-world contexts.
Qualification Information
Qualification Type | Occupational Certificate |
|---|---|
NQF Level | NQF 4 |
Credits | 131 |
Duration | Minimum 15 - 18 months Part-time |
Learning Type | Residential learning |
SAQA ID | 97542 |
Accreditation | Quality Council for Trades & Occupations (QCTO) |
Curriculum Outline
Occupational Certificate: Early Childhood Development Practitioner (SAQA ID 97542, Minimum Duration 15 - 18 Months full-time/part-time, NQF 04, 131 Credits)
Programme Outcome
Graduates will be able to plan and prepare a broad-phase learning environment and stimulating activities that meet the holistic needs of all children in centre-based or non-centre-based settings. They will be able to facilitate and mediate all aspects of the daily programme in a centre-based or non-centre-based setting. Graduates will be able to observe, assess and record each child's progress and compile a report of each child's progress. Graduates will also be able to maintain and promote the well-being, health, nutrition, safety and protection of children.
Career Opportunities
With the FET Certificate in Early Childhood Development (NQF Level 4), you can pursue a variety of roles in the ECD sector. These include working as a pre-school (0 - 4yrs) or crèche teacher (in public or private settings), an assistant or home-based teacher, or managing a childcare centre. The qualification also prepares you to run your own home-based service. In addition, it provides a strong foundation for further studies in early childhood education.
Programme Requirements
To be eligible for this programme, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- To be admitted to the FET Certificate in Early Childhood Development (NQF Level 4), learners must hold one of the following qualifications with Mathematics and English:
- Grade 12 or National Senior Certificate (NSC)
- Senior Certificate (SC)
- National Certificate (Vocational) [NC(V)]
- Alternatively, learners who have achieved a qualification at NQF Level 3 (equivalent to Grade 11) may also be considered for entry. In addition, Skills Development Providers (training organisations) may require applicants to complete a placement assessment to ensure readiness for the programme.
Programme Costs
| Application Fee | R100 |
|---|---|
| Registration Fee | R1,500 |
| Tuition Cost | R36,000 |
| Monthly Payments | R3,600 x 10 months |
| Annual Payment (with 5% discount) | R34,200 (save R1,800) |
Bursary Information
Bursary options are available and require approval before admission. For more details send an email to admissions@centreforcreativeeducation.org.za.