Teaching (Early Childhood)

Prepare for a career in early childhood education, working with children from birth to six years. Gain practical and theoretical knowledge of Te Whāriki, the Early Childhood curriculum.
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Why study Teaching (Early Childhood)?

Our Early Childhood Education integrated programme contains seven major themes: bicultural development; cultural diversity; equity and social justice; inclusion; parents and whānau; transition to school; and infants and toddlers.

Teaching at The University of Waikato is a qualification that sets you up to become a skilled and reflective teacher. We produce qualified early childhood education teachers who are in high demand both in New Zealand and around the world.

Practical experience is included throughout your programme, with weekly placements in early childhood settings and block placements in early childhood settings and a Year 0-1 classroom.

We offer both full-time and part-time study options to work around your lifestyle and commitments. Our online offering, Pāpāho Rau, allows you to stay in your town and community, with some on-campus attendance required throughout your study.

Scholarships and prizes

Visit our Scholarship Finder for information about possible scholarships.

Browse Early Childhood education papers

QS rankings

QS World University Rankings 2027

Waikato is ranked equal 293rd globally, placing us in the top 1.5% of universities worldwide, and 2nd in New Zealand by citations per faculty.

QS Ranking - Education

Waikato is ranked among the top 250 universities worldwide for Education in the QS World University Rankings.

Contact us

Te Kura Toi Tangata School of Education

+64 7788 0688 (International)