NZTC addresses ECE teacher shortage in practical ways

New Zealand’s largest provider of early childhood teacher education has taken decisive action to address the critical shortage of qualified early childhood teachers.

New Zealand Tertiary College (NZTC) has moved beyond just conversations of concern to support needed outcomes of qualified early childhood teachers. To date, the college has gifted scholarships to 55 students with study fees reduced by more than 75 percent. The intention is to remove financial stress from being a reason not to commence study.

“Our sector is in serious need of qualified early childhood teachers. Our youngest generation deserve the best care and education and we are in a season of challenge due to the teacher shortage,” said NZTC Chief Executive Selena Fox.

“NZTC has taken action in real and practical ways to extensively support during this time of need. There are huge shortfalls in early childhood teacher numbers. We simply needed to open doors to enable students to begin their studies.”

A New Zealand Qualifications Authority Category One education provider, NZTC has an online learning environment and orientation support system with new intakes starting every Monday. Strong practical components are woven through online study so students can gain work experience during their studies.

“Our student focused curriculum delivery puts the college in a unique position of being able to support students to begin their studies quickly, without having to wait for a new semester,” Fox said.

NZTC has served the early childhood sector for over 36 years with quality teaching programs and sector relevant support.

“The college is moving students towards being qualified early childhood teachers in practical ways. We are proud to support our early childhood community in New Zealand,” Fox said.

“Our graduates go on to become child-centred leaders grounded in leading research, with the practical skills to give young children a solid foundation for lifelong learning.”

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