The IIE Higher Certificate in Early Childhood Care and Education (HCECCE) is an entry level/introductory qualification (at NQF Level 5) to the study of early childhood development (ECD) education from birth through to 4 years of age. It is intended to provide students with “basic introductory knowledge, cognitive and conceptual tools and practical techniques to enable further study in ECD” (DHET, 2017: 24).
This one-year higher certificate is structured in accordance with The Department of Higher Education and Training’s (DHET) Policy on Minimum Requirements for Programmes Leading to Qualifications in Higher Education for Early Childhood Development Educators (2017), and with the National Curriculum Framework (NCF) for Children from Birth to Four Policy (2015). In addition, it is aligned to the HEQSF guidelines, and will provide students with the beginning knowledge, skills and applied competences identified to be critical for facilitation at this level. Graduates will be well prepared with insight and skills that are both employable and relevant to further specialisation study in support of the principles of life-long learning.
The programme is approved by the CHE/SAQA and pending registration with the Department of Higher Education and Training.
1 year
Accredited by the CHE. Registration: NQF Level 5, SAQA ID 104532
First Semester (February)
HCEC0501
IIE Higher Certificate in Early Childhood Care and Education is offered at the IIE MSA campus in Ruimsig.
National Senior Certificate (NSC) Higher Certificate pass with English (40%)
National Certificate (Vocational) (NC(V)) Higher Certificate pass with English (40%)
Senior Certificate (SC) Endorsement – none; with English (40%)
Senior Certificate (Amended) (SC(a)) Higher Certificate pass with English (40%)
National Senior Certificate for Adults English 40%
Please note, requirements for entry to this qualification are correct at the time of publication, however, these may change.
A SAQA Evaluation Certificate with NSC Level 4 equivalence with at least 40% or equivalent for English.
The Higher Certificate in Early Childhood Care and Education is awarded by The IIE. This qualification is on NQF level 5.
More information on applying can be found by visiting How to apply
011 950 4009
enquiries@iiemsa.co.za