Early childhood teacher
Also known as
Work environment
- Usually work regular hours but may work part time
- Usually work in kindergartens or childcare centres
- Need to be organised, responsible and communicate well
Salary information
Typical tasks
- Look after young children
- Teach students life skills and values
- Provide for students' basic needs
- Set up classroom materials and equipment
- Plan educational and entertainment activities
- Change teaching styles for different students
- Set rules for student behaviour
- Help student's resolve problems and conflict
- Communicate with student’s families
- Keep student records
Outlook
Early childhood education continues to play an important role in supporting children’s learning and development in New Zealand. The sector is focused on improving outcomes for diverse communities, strengthening culturally responsive practice and supporting children with different learning needs. Technology is helping teachers communicate with families and document learning, while growing recognition of the importance of early years education continues to shape the profession.
What employers and industry want in graduates
- Strong communication skills
- Patience and empathy
- Cultural awareness and inclusiveness
- Creativity in supporting learning
- Ability to build positive relationships
- Commitment to child development and wellbeing
Professional registration
Teaching Council of Aotearoa New Zealand
04 471 0852
AUT programmes
The above is a suggestion only and a starting point. You may need to meet other criteria or take additional steps to work in this career.
Tips from AUT graduates
Further study options
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This data is sourced from the Tertiary Education Commission through the Tahatū Career Navigator website (www.tahtu.govt.nz) and used under the CC BY 4.0 licence. Some of the information has been modified by AUT. TEC has not approved, endorsed or tested these modifications. TEC will not be held accountable for any errors within this data.