Early Childhood Development Practitioner
- NQF Level 4
- NSFAS bursary
Train to care for and teach young children, from birth to school-going age, in crèches, preschools and ECD centres.
Applications open until 12 November 2026 at 23:59 · to start in January 2027
Applications close on
12 November 2026 at 23:59
Apply now to start studying in January 2027.
Time left to apply
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At a glance
- Level
- NQF Level 4
- You receive
- Occupational Certificate
- On completion
- Duration
- 1 year
- Full-time
- Tuition
- R 10 593.00
- per year (2027)
What is Early Childhood Development Practitioner?
What you'll learn
- Child development from birth to school-going age
- Planning and presenting play-based learning activities
- Health, safety and nutrition of young children
- Observing children and supporting those with different needs
- Working with families and the community
This is an occupational qualification registered with the QCTO. It is made up of knowledge (theory) modules, practical skills modules and workplace experience, and ends with an external integrated summative assessment. When you pass, you receive an Occupational Certificate.
Where can this take me?
- ECD practitioner
- Crèche or day-care practitioner
- Preschool or Grade R assistant
- Playgroup facilitator
- Your own ECD centre, once registered
What qualification do I receive?
Occupational Certificate
When you complete Early Childhood Development Practitioner, you receive an Occupational Certificate at NQF Level 4.
- NQF Level 4
- Certificate
- SAQA ID 97542
Accredited by
What do I need to apply?
You can apply from Grade 11 or NQF Level 3, or any of the other options below.
Minimum requirement: any ONE of the following, or a higher qualification.
- 1Option 1: Grade 11
- 2Option 2: NC(V) Level 3
- 3Option 3: N4
- 4Option 4: Any other qualification at NQF Level 3
Where can I study this?
How long does it take?
Full-time
1 year
When you study full-time.
Part-time
Not available
This programme is not offered part-time.
How much does it cost?
Tuition fee
R 10 593.00
Per year, for 2027.
Can I get financial aid?
Yes, financial aid is available
This programme is covered by the NSFAS bursary. If you qualify, it pays your tuition, and it can include allowances for accommodation, transport and personal care. A bursary is not guaranteed, so apply early.
You don't have to wait for the college to accept you: you can already apply for NSFAS, separately, on the NSFAS website.
Your next steps
- 1
Check the entry requirements
Make sure you have one of the qualifications listed above.
- 2
Apply before the closing date
Applications to start studying in January 2027 are open until 12 November 2026 at 23:59. Use the Apply now button.
- 3
Apply for an NSFAS bursary now
You don't have to wait for the college to accept you: you can already apply for NSFAS, separately, on the NSFAS website ↗.
