Early Childhood Free Certificate in South Africa

The PLAY online training is an in‑service programme designed to complement existing formal qualifications. It also offers 15 SACE‑approved Continuing Professional Development (CPD) credits, recognised under section 5(b) of the South African Council for Educators Act 31 of 2000.

What is PLAY (Powerful Learning Around You)?

PLAY is a free, self‑paced online course aimed at improving play‑based teaching and learning for children from birth to Grade 3. It does not replace formal qualifications but enhances the knowledge and skills of anyone working in ECD settings.

This includes:

• Grade R to Grade 3 teachers
• ECD practitioners
• Childminders and day mothers
• Playgroup facilitators
• Toy library staff
• Anyone working with babies and young children

The programme is ideal for individuals seeking flexible, recognised professional development that fits into their schedule.

Benefits of the PLAY Online Training Course

• Completely free
• Fully online and flexible
• Accredited with 15 CPD credits by SACE
• Government and internationally endorsed
• Designed for ECD practitioners and early grades teachers
• Practical, play‑based learning content

Participants only need approximately 2 hours per week to complete the programme at a comfortable pace.

How the PLAY Online Training Works

After registering on playsa.org, the course becomes available immediately. The training is delivered through a structured online platform and includes:

• Instructional videos
• Reading materials
• Practical tasks
• Reflection and evaluation activities
• Additional resources emailed after each session

If you need assistance, you can book a support workshop to help you navigate the course content or online system.

Upon completing all modules, you will automatically receive your Early Childhood Free Certificate, which includes SACE‑approved CPD credits.

How to Register for the Free Early Childhood Certificate

To obtain your free ECD certificate, follow these steps:

1. Register Online

Sign up through the PLAY online platform at playsa.org. The Department of Basic Education has also initiated the eCares registration system for ECD programmes, which may be used for additional programme registration requirements.

2. Complete the Required Training Sessions

Work through the modules at your own pace. Each session includes learning materials, play‑based tasks, and evaluation steps.

3. Receive Your Certificate

Once you have completed all course requirements, you will receive your official certificate of completion along with your 15 CPD credits.

About the Partners Behind PLAY

Department of Basic Education (DBE)

The DBE focuses on strengthening early childhood development, improving access to Grade R, and enhancing the quality of early learning and teaching across South Africa.

UNICEF

UNICEF supports children globally and promotes safe, stimulating early learning environments and developmentally appropriate teaching methods.

LEGO Foundation

Internationally recognised for advocating learning through play, the LEGO Foundation contributes expertise and resources to support playful learning approaches.

Cotlands

Cotlands is a South African non-profit organisation working to improve early childhood development in under‑resourced communities. They operate toy libraries, playgroups, and training initiatives for ECD practitioners.

Why the Early Childhood Free Certificate Matters

South Africa aims to strengthen early learning outcomes by training 150,000 ECD practitioners and Foundation Phase educators through the PLAY programme. High‑quality play-based learning enriches early brain development and lays the foundation for future academic success.

By completing this training, you not only earn a recognised certificate but also contribute to improving educational outcomes for young children in your community.

Start Your Free ECD Training Today

If you are ready to enhance your early childhood development skills, you can register now at: playsa.org

This free, flexible, and accredited training programme is a valuable opportunity for anyone working with young children.