Courses
What do we offer?
Caversham Institute offers ECD qualifications at National Qualifications Framework (NQF) Level 5; post matric & pre-degree and also professional development short courses.

Caversham Insitute ECD Qualifications
1. The National Diploma in Early Childhood Development
South African Qualification Authority (SAQA) ID 23118. This qualification is offered part-time over three years and comprises three components. The first component, known as the SCOPE course is offered over 20 modules and covers the Fundamental and Core unit standards for the qualifications and 82 credits. This course covers theories of early learning, the importance of play through an inquiry-based, developmentally appropriate programme for young children. Modules include the theoretical knowledge and rationale of various “lesson” or session times and these are underpinned by practical examples for implementation. Students are exposed to different forms of child management/discipline and then study children with barriers to learning including abuse. The course is rounded off with modules on parental contact, team work and finally professionalism.

Year 1
Comprises 17 compulsory modules for 82 credits specifically designed to equip teachers of young children, 2 – 6 years of age with the core knowledge and skills required to set up, plan, mediate, assess & evaluate an excellent ECD programme
Year 2
Comprises 17 compulsory modules for 47 credits that include the elective components to complete the requirements for the qualification. It provides in-depth specialized knowledge and skills to implement the SA National Curriculum Framework (NCF) for birth – four. It focuses on the professionalism of ECD teachers including writing a CV and interview skills.
Year 3
Comprises 14 compulsory modules for 111 credits that extend the foundation laid in the Higher Certificate to include working with vulnerable children, their parents and the community; a strong academic literacy component that culminates in a mini-thesis; skills in team work (leadership. co-operative learning, group dynamics, dealing with and resolving conflict); collaboration with parents and community partners.
This year has proven invaluable to students who manage or open their own ECD centres of excellence.
The National Diploma consists of 240 credits in ECD at NQF level 5.
Click the below to download the application forms
2. Professional Development Short Courses
One of the ways CI serves those working in ECD is through its exciting, interactive, practical and supportive professional short courses. These are designed to deepen practical knowledge and skills to offer the NCF in ways that are exciting and lay an excellent foundation.
These workshops are three hours in duration and participants leave with deepened knowledge of the topic, practical skills to use with the children and loads of ideas to implement in the classroom. Included in each workshop is the opportunity to share with others and grow in confidence as an ECD teacher.