Burnside High School Burnside High School

NCEA Level 3 Early Childhood Studies

13ECS
Course Description

Teacher in Charge: Mrs D. Jarrett.

Why Study Early Childhood Studies?

The latest neuroscience is highlighting the significance of the early years in a child's life. Early Childhood Studies is a course that delivers relevant skills and information about ways to effectively nurture and promote the development of our preschool children. 

This course follows on from Level 2 Early Childhood Studies, and focuses on Vocational Early Childhood Education standards. It will be of particular interest to those students who are considering a career in Early Childhood Education, Nannying or Primary School Teaching.

There are many 'hands-on' opportunities including developing resources for play for preschoolers, visits to Early Childhood Centers, and visits to the school by preschoolers and their parents as part of the course. 

Topics covered include:

  • The importance of the first 1000 days
  • Developmental stages and milestones
  • The value of play
  • Te Whāriki: The Early Childhood Curriculum
  • Various ECE philosophies in Aotearoa 
  • Child protection and safety issues
  • Current early childhood issues

Whilst this is a non-UE approved subject, it offers invaluable background learning for those interested in the aforementioned careers as well as relevant life skills. 


Learning Areas:

Health and Physical Education, Student Support, Technology


Assessment Information

This is an internally assessed course made up of Unit Standards from the Vocational Early Childhood Education sector. This course is NOT UE approved. All assessments are written assignments.

Career Pathways

Early Childhood Teacher, Primary School Teacher, Nanny/Child Carer



			
					
					Contributions and Equipment/Stationery
										

Students are asked to contribute $25 towards this course - this goes towards materials provided for making resources for children's play as well as some food resources for some aspects of the course.
There are also basic stationery requirements.