Understand child development
Recognise how young children grow across language, thinking, social, emotional and physical domains—and respond with purpose.
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A considered next step · NQF Level 4
FET Certificate in Early Childhood Development
Turn your natural ability to care into an intentional, credible foundation for working with young children—with structured Saturday learning and personal support along the way.
A profession with purpose
The earliest years shape a lifetime. Your work matters.
Early Childhood Development supports children's language, thinking, social confidence, emotional wellbeing and physical growth during the years that create the foundation for future learning. This programme helps you add intentional practice and professional knowledge to the care you already bring—so your next opportunity can rest on real capability.
“A qualification matters most when it changes what you can confidently do.”
Programme transparency
This legacy qualification is not presented as open for new enrolment.
SAQA records 30 June 2026 as the last date for enrolment into qualification 58761. Contact Lesia's before paying or submitting documents so the admissions team can explain the current approved pathway, any applicable teach-out arrangement, or a replacement qualification.
NQF Level 4Is this your next step?
Designed for people who are ready to move forward.
See yourself in one or more of these starting points? Bring your questions about time, fees and entry expectations—we'll help you decide whether this is the right conversation to begin.
- ✓You are entering ECD and want a clear professional foundation.
- ✓You work as a daycare or classroom assistant and want to formalise your capability.
- ✓You are a parent or caregiver ready to turn experience into a career direction.
- ✓You want an entry point that can lead toward Level 5 and greater responsibility.
Capability you can carry into practice
Build the confidence to do the work well.
Strong ECD professionals combine developmental understanding, thoughtful teaching, safe practice and reliable communication.
Plan meaningful learning
Create age-appropriate, play-based experiences that support curiosity, participation and strong foundations for school.
Create safe environments
Build routines and learning spaces that support wellbeing, inclusion, observation and responsible care.
Communicate professionally
Strengthen parent communication, record keeping, teamwork and the everyday reliability ECD settings need.
Your learning map
From understanding children to leading good practice.
This is a practical view of the capabilities developed across the journey. Exact learning and assessment requirements are confirmed during admission, so you know what the programme asks of you.
The developing child
Explore growth, learning needs and the role of observation in understanding each child.
Play-based learning
Connect purposeful play, stories, movement, language and creative activities to development.
Classroom practice
Plan daily routines, manage a learning group and create stimulating, inclusive experiences.
Health, safety and care
Support wellbeing through responsible environments, child protection awareness and good records.
Evidence and professional growth
Build a practical portfolio that demonstrates what you understand and can apply.
The opportunity beyond the classroom
Build a qualification. Create more directions.
Level 4 is the entry and foundation step in the ECD career ladder. It can support assistant and childcare roles while giving you a structured platform for advanced study.
Read the ECD career & money guide ↗ROLES THIS PATHWAY CAN SUPPORT
01ECD practitioner assistant
02Childcare or daycare worker
03Preschool classroom assistant
04Aftercare assistant
05Playgroup facilitator
06Home-based childcare pathway
Roles depend on experience, employer requirements, compliance and, in some cases, further study. A qualification does not guarantee employment or income.
Clarity before commitment
Questions worth asking before you enrol.
Good decisions begin with honest information. Ask about the requirements, total fees, study rhythm and career direction specific to your situation.
01Can I study while I am working?+
Saturday learning is designed for adults balancing employment, family and other responsibilities. You will still need protected time for assignments, practical work and portfolio preparation.
02Do I need ECD experience before I start?+
This pathway is designed as a foundation, but admission depends on the programme's formal requirements. Share your qualifications and experience with the Lesia's team so they can confirm your fit.
03What should I keep for my professional portfolio?+
Keep your certificates, results, practical records, references, lesson plans, resource photographs, observation forms and attendance templates. These can strengthen future applications.
04Does Level 4 guarantee a job?+
No qualification can guarantee employment. Your prospects are strengthened by combining credible learning with practical experience, strong references, professionalism, communication and consistent job-search action.
01NQF Level 4Your next chapter deserves a clear, sensible first step.
Personal programme guidance
Let's check your fit before you commit.
Share your current qualifications, experience and career goal. The admissions team will explain the programme status, entry expectations, learning format, fees and next available step in plain language.
01Tell us where you are now
02Compare the right pathway
03Receive a clear next step