VerifiedThe NC(V) Education and Development programme is closing to new students. Under DHET circular TC 0153, public TVET colleges take no new Level 2 students in it from January 2027. If you want to work with young children or move towards teaching, here are the routes that remain open.
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Routes for 2027 and beyond
| Goal | Route | Where |
|---|---|---|
| Work in an ECD centre | Occupational Certificate: Early Childhood Development Practitioner | About 20 public TVET colleges |
| Become a Grade R or Foundation Phase teacher | Diploma in Grade R Teaching or BEd Foundation Phase | Universities, including Unisa by distance |
| Teach in primary or high school | BEd, or a degree plus PGCE | Universities |
If you are already studying Education and Development
- You can complete the qualification under the teach-out plan.
- Plan to finish on time; repeated levels use up NSFAS funding.
- NC(V) Level 4 can support an application to a university programme if you meet its requirements.
Colleges offering the ECD occupational certificate (DHET 2026)
Boland, Buffalo City, Capricorn, Coastal, College of Cape Town, East Cape Midlands, Ekurhuleni West, Elangeni, False Bay, Gert Sibande, Goldfields, Maluti, Motheo, Northlink, Sekhukhune, South Cape, South West Gauteng, Tshwane North, Umgungundlovu, Vhembe and Waterberg. It qualifies for NSFAS allowances.
ECD centres must be registered with the education department. A recognised ECD qualification helps you work in a registered centre.
See the Education and Development course and teaching study options.
Frequently asked questions
Can I still apply for NC(V) Education and Development for 2027?
No. It takes no new Level 2 students from January 2027 under DHET circular TC 0153.
What replaces Education and Development?
For ECD work, the Occupational Certificate: Early Childhood Development Practitioner, offered at about 20 public TVET colleges.
