Occupational Certificate: Early Childhood Development (ECD)
Shape young minds, build strong foundations.
The Occupational Certificate: Early Childhood Development Practitioner (NQF 4) offered by Dieta Solutions equips you with the essential skills to nurture, educate, and support children during their most critical developmental years. This qualification blends theory with hands-on practice, preparing you to design age-appropriate learning experiences, ensure child safety, and engage families in the early education process.
Accreditation & Recognition
Key Outcomes:
- QCTO Accreditation Number: 07-QCTO/SDP221025121256
- Qualification Title: Occupational Certificate: Early Childhood Development Practitioner
- NQF Levels: 4
- SAQA IDs: 97542 (131 Credits)
- Accreditation Period: 13 June 2025 – 12 June 2030
- Accredited Campus: Lane and Kruin Street, Harmelia Extension, Isando, Germiston, Johannesburg, Gauteng, 1619
All qualifications in our programmes are accredited with the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO) and are aligned with the National Qualifications Framework (NQF).
Fees & Funding
Programme Fee
- Detailed fee breakdown available on request or via our website.
Payment Plans
- Interest-free instalments to suit your cash flow.
Funding Options
- Utilise your employer’s SETA levy grants; we assist with application.
- Private bursaries and merit-based scholarships available.
What You'll Learn?
Key Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this 240-credit programme, you will be able to:
Plan, design, and implement age-appropriate curriculum for children from birth to school-entry age.
Apply principles of child development, learning, and psychology.
Establish and maintain safe, inclusive, and nurturing environments.
Build positive relationships with families and communities to support holistic child growth.
Implement health, nutrition, and safety protocols in early childhood settings.
Monitor, assess, and report on children’s development and learning outcomes.
Monitor, measure and continuously improve compliance performance
Use creative methods (play, storytelling, art, music) to promote social, cognitive, and emotional development.
Curriculum Structure
Delivered over 12–18 months (part-time), the curriculum comprises the following core modules:
| Module | Focus Area |
|---|---|
| Introduction to Early Childhood Development | Child growth, development milestones |
| Learning Theories & Play-Based Learning | Practical application in daily activities |
| Health, Safety & Nutrition | Policies, first aid, wellness |
| Curriculum Planning | Lesson design, daily schedules, assessment tools |
| Inclusive Education | Supporting diverse learning needs and abilities |
| Language & Literacy Development | Storytelling, early reading, communication |
| Numeracy & Cognitive Skills | Foundational maths and problem-solving |
| Regulatory Reporting | Preparing submissions for regulators and authorities |
| Social & Emotional Development | Behaviour management, emotional intelligence |
| Family & Community Engagement | Partnering with caregivers and stakeholders |
| Training & Change Management | Adult learning principles, awareness campaigns, cultural change |
| Classroom & Centre Management | Daily operations, resource allocation |
Entry Requirements
Academic:
- National Senior Certificate (Grade 12) or equivalent
Experience (Recommended):
- Familiarity with corporate governance, risk management or audit functions
Language:
- Proficiency in English (reading, writing, speaking)
Equivalents and mature-age exemptions are considered on a case-by-case basis.
Learning & Delivery Model
Blended Learning:
- Face-to-Face Workshops at our Observatory Campus for interactive case studies and simulations.
- Online Portal with recorded lectures, readings and quizzes available 24/7.
Schedule
- Evening and weekend sessions tailored for working professionals.
Support
- One-on-one coaching, peer discussion forums and dedicated compliance mentors.
Assessment & Certification
Continuous Assessment
- Assignments, case studies and module quizzes.
Summative Assessment
- Final written examination and a comprehensive capstone project.
Certification
- On successful completion, you will receive the nationally recognised Occupational Certificate: Compliance Officer, issued under our QCTO accreditation.
Career Pathways
Graduates are equipped for roles such as:
- ECD Practitioner / Teacher (Preschools, Crèches, Daycare Centres)
- ECD Centre Manager / Supervisor
- Childcare Programme Facilitator
- Community Outreach Coordinator in early learning programmes
- Further study into Teaching Degrees or Education Management
Fees & Funding
- Programme Fee: Detailed fee breakdown available on request or via our website.
- Payment Plans: Interest-free instalments to suit your cash flow.
- SETA Funding: Leverage your employer’s skills levy grants; we assist with SETA application processes.
- Bursaries & Scholarships: Select private bursaries and merit-based awards available.
How to Apply
Apply with Confidence
For personalised guidance, email info@dietasolutions.co.za or call 079 412 6258.
01
Download
Download the Application Form from dietasolutions.co.za.
02
Submit
Submit certified copies of your ID and highest qualification.
03
Pay
the non-refundable registration fee to secure your spot.
04
Attend
an online orientation session to get started.
Ready to lead projects that make an impact?
Enrol today and transform your professional trajectory with Dieta Solutions.