The aim of the MIT Certificate in Early Childhood Education Level 4 is to contribute to the development of a seamless portfolio of programmes allowing a pathway of study from Level 2 through to Level 7 which specifically addresses the learning needs and interests of students aiming to become registered early childhood teachers. Successful completion of the Level 4 certificate will prepare students who previously lacked the necessary academic credits or confidence, to apply for entry to the MIT BEdEarly Childhood Teaching.

On completion, graduates will have a range of knowledge and skills across key elements of early childhood education, allowing them to progress into further study and or employment in early childhood. In particular the programme aims to provide graduates who:
Are developing into independent learners and are able to identify and overcome barriers to their own learning and be able to develop appropriate solutions to those barriers to continue their on going learning.
Have developed relevant knowledge, skills and understanding to use technology for communication, documentation, reflection and representation relevant to early childhood education.
Have developed foundation skills in literacy and numeracy.
Are able to demonstrate the ability to problem-solve, think critically and practice reflectively.
Have developed a beginning understanding of the early childhood profession and be able to apply appropriate code of practice and ethical standards when working within the profession.
Have developed appropriate strategies to communicate effectively with both adults and young children within a range of cultural contexts and teams.
Can demonstrate and articulate knowledge and understanding of safe practices, curriculum and issues within early childhood settings in Aotearoa/ New Zealand.
Have a commitment to Te Tiriti O Waitangi and be developing an understanding of its implications for early childhood practice.
Have developed adequate skills and processes for preparation for employment into an early childhood environment as a nanny or in home based education and care.
Have the potential to develop skills towards meeting the New Zealand Teachers Council requirements and entry standards including language requirements and the qualities and dispositions to meet the graduating teacher standards.

This qualification builds on level 2 and 3 Foundation programmes and leads to the MIT Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood Teaching)

Entry into the MIT Certificate in Early Childhood Education Level 4 requires the applicant to meet the following
Have English language competence to undertake this programme which is taught and assessed in English. Any applicants whose first language is not English may be required to provide evidence of an overall IELTS Academic band score of 6.5 with no band less than 6.0, or equivalent. AND
Applicants must be able to demonstrate the following attributes: a strong motivation to work with children the ability to work in a team the ability to communicate in groups and one on one; and a mature approach to study. This will be assessed in the interview and the referee process.
AND
Has a police vet satisfactory for work with children
AND
Be aged at least 17 years by the end of the programme AND Displays respect for others, for cultural and social values of Aotearoa New Zealand, for the law and for the views of others. This will be assessed in the interview.
AND
Is reliable and trustworthy. This will be assessed through the referee process.
AND
Is mentally and physically fit to work with children safely and satisfactorily This will be assessed through the referee processes.