Early Childhood Development (ECD) Professional Practices

This comprehensive ECD Professional Practices course equips learners with the essential knowledge and practical skills required to work as an Au Pair, Nanny, Child Minder, or to run, support or improve an Early Childhood Development (ECD) Centre in South Africa.

The programme blends classroom learning, practical experience in a Day Care Centre/Crèche and guided online study, ensuring that learners graduate with strong competencies in child development, centre management, inclusive learning environments, child protection, nutrition, budgeting and family engagement.

Perfect for individuals wanting to enter the childcare profession or advance to leadership roles within ECD environments.

What’s Included

• 4 weeks full-time classroom training (Monday–Friday)

• 4 weeks practical experience in a Day Care Centre or Crèche

• 8 weeks supported online learning

• 11 structured ECD modules

• Guidance in centre management & legal compliance

• Child development, protection & nutrition training

• Certification upon completion

 

What You Will Learn

The course includes 11 major modules/units, covering:

Professional Childcare & Development

• Child growth & developmental milestones

• Inclusive learning environments

• Classroom/playroom setup

• Age-appropriate stimulation

Centre & Household Operations

• Managing daily routines in homes or ECD centres

• Organising activities & schedules

• Understanding operational workflows

• Monitoring safety & hygiene

Leadership & Staff Management

• Supervising childcare staff

• Effective communication

• Team leadership basics

• Supporting staff performance

Child Protection & Safety

• Child safeguarding principles

• Identifying signs of abuse or neglect

• Reporting responsibilities

• Creating safe physical & emotional spaces

Nutrition, Health & Well-Being

• Nutrition for infants, toddlers & young children

• Menu planning & meal supervision

• Health checks & early warning signs

Budgeting, Administration & Compliance

• Basic budgeting for home/ECD operations

• Centre documentation & record-keeping

• Understanding South African ECD legal requirements

• Partnering with families & building community relationships

 

Certification

Learners receive an ECD Professional Practices Certificate upon completing all modules, assessments and practical requirements.

Duration: 6 Months
Cost: R15,500.00
Registration Fee: R3,500.00 (Compulsory)