Introduction

This programme is intended to develop educators who are able to support and promote early learning and development for babies, toddlers and young children up to and including four years of age. By enrolling for the HCert (ECCE) participants can gain an entry level qualification that will afford them recognition as an early childhood development (ECD) educator. Furthermore, graduates who successfully complete the HCert (ECCE), and who want to become professionally qualified, can then enrol for a Diploma (Dip) in ECCE or a Bachelor of Education (BEd) in ECCE.

Who Should Enrol

Individuals wanting to enter the field of Early Childhood Education, caregivers and/or au pairs.

Accreditation

SAQA number 112139

NQF Level 5

120 Credits

Accredited by the Council on Higher Education; Registered by the Department of Higher Education and Training.

Entry Requirements

To enrol for this programme, potential students must possess:

  • A matric certificate or
  • Relevant NQF level 4 certificate

Intake date

Intake 1 Intake 2 Intake 3
Applications close: 15 December 2023 Applications close: 15 March 2024 Applications close: 15 June 2024
Start date: 1 March 2024 Start date: 15 May 2024 Start date: 15 August 2024

Course Design

The programme consists of the following learning components: 

  • Distance e-learning (self-study) modules,
  • Various assessment tasks.
  • Practical learning taking place at an approved ECCE centre over a period of 8 weeks.

Course Duration

Participants are required to complete this programme within a year. 

Enrolment process

For more information on the application process, click here.

Course Content

Students need to complete the following modules:

Semester 1:

  • Computer Literacy
  • Academic Literacy
  • African Language Literacy
  • Introduction to ECCE
  • Educational Psychology

Semester 2:

  • Planning a Quality ECCE Curriculum
  • Assessment in ECCE
  • Practical Learning

Learning Outcomes

On achieving this qualification, a learner will be able to:

  • Demonstrate communication skills appropriate to the Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) situation.
  • Understand the main theories underpinning the field of ECD and will demonstrate the ability to analyse influences on the development of ECCE as it is currently interpreted, examining the social, political, economic, and educational issues that influence child rearing, teaching and policy development in South Africa. The student will demonstrate an understanding of the complexities presented by the differentiated nature of South African society regarding ECCE.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of pedagogical subject matter relevant to ECCE that will enable and support competence as an early childhood educator. The student will be able to create appropriate learning opportunities and provide guidance for babies, toddlers and young children, providing for their needs by maintaining a safe, healthy learning environment supporting holistic development.
  • Demonstrate the ability to apply knowledge of ECCE in practice (WIL).
  • Display the personal qualities essential for being a dedicated educator in the ECCE situation

Assessment

The programme includes the following assessment opportunities:

  • Formative assessment tests - self-study multiple choice questions (MCQs) assessments
  • Formative modular assessments (individual assignments) in the form of content-related assignments
  • Summative exam assessments – this will be in the form of an assessment or a Portfolio of Evidence (POE) you will complete to demonstrate how you have implemented your practical module.

Certification

The successful candidate will be awarded with a Higher Certificate in Early Childhood Care and Education (NQF Level 5).




COURSE
R 25,968.00 (incl VAT)

Voucher Access

Enquire Now

Targeted at individuals wanting to enter the field of Early Childhood Education, caregivers and/or au pairs. Pay per module option available.