What is an early childhood educator?
An early childhood educator is a skilled professional trained in child development and the facilitation of guiding children in the process of knowledge building and subject inquiry.
Where do early childhood educators work?
Professionals work in a number of licensed facilities such as pre-schools, childcare centres and family childcare programs, as well as Strong Start centres and family drop-in programs.
Will I be able to work in the school system?
Students with a Certificate in ECCE work in Strong Start programs within elementary schools.
To be eligible to become a support worker within the school system, you will need to have a diploma in ECE, which is offered at Selkirk College as a Human Services Diploma with an infant toddler or inclusive care focus.
Can I go onto further education?
Yes, you can continue into a Human Services Diploma and from there into a bachelor's in child and youth care or early childhood education at a number of provincial colleges and universities.
What are the entrance requirements to the ECCE Program?
The requirements are an equivalent to Grade 12 with a demonstrated ability in English 12 or academic equivalent.
More detailed information is available in the application package.
Why do I need a criminal record check?
The criminal record check is required to facilitate practicum placements. In order to work with children, you are required to have a criminal record check that clears you of any child-related offences.
How is the ECCE certificate related to the child and youth care field?
The ECCE Certificate Program is the first year of a two-year Human Services Diploma in ECCE or child and youth care.
The skills learned in the first year are applicable across the field of early childhood. It provides a foundation and prepares students to focus on issues and challenges specific to children and their families and communities in the second year.
Will I have to go on to the diploma and then a degree?
Although we strongly recommend going on to complete the Human Services Diploma, there are a variety of work opportunities within this field, and you may decide to work for a number of years before returning to complete a diploma.
However, working with children and families means a commitment to lifelong learning. A number of our students continue into the diploma to increase their employability options.
Can I do this program part time?
Yes. We work with students on an individual basis to develop a study plan that will accommodate their needs.
Is it possible to get a credit for experience and workshops (a Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition [PLAR])?
Yes, A student may apply to get credit for specific courses in the ECCE Program. It is important for applicants to discuss their experience and goals with one of the ECCE instructors so that they make good decisions before entering this process.
What can I do to prepare myself for acceptance into the ECCE program?
Many students take their English and psychology courses before they apply for the program. It is also a good idea to develop a plan to deal with childcare and other important issues in your life prior to entering a busy program.