Early Childhood Education Program

Also see: ECE – Post-Basic Program

Early childhood education (ECE) plays a critical role in developing good learning and social habits in our youth. Early childhood educators develop daily activities for children. They lead children in activities by telling or reading stories, teaching songs, demonstrating the use of simple musical instruments, preparing craft materials and demonstrating their use, and taking the children to local points of interest. They guide and assist children in the development of proper eating, dressing and toilet habits. They also observe children and discuss, when appropriate, children’s progress or problems with parents and other staff members. They attend meetings and workshops to develop and discuss new teaching methods. They may supervise and coordinate the activities of other early childhood educators and early childhood educator assistants.

Federal government plans to increase accessibility of licensed child care may have a significant and positive effect on employment growth in early childhood education. The federal plan is to increase the number of regulated spaces significantly over the next several years and to increase their affordability through federal financial support. If this initiative comes into effect, there will be a notable shortage of trained early childhood educators professionals needed to staff these new spaces. It is also likely that this infusion of money could increase average salaries.

Sprott-Shaw’s ECE courses will prepare you for a rewarding career in early childhood education. If you want to speak to someone regarding our ECE courses, please contact us.

Note: CPR, First Aid, and Food Safe will be completed during the program.

Entrance Requirements: Grade 12/GED or mature student status. Applicants must successfully complete the admissions interview and entrance assessments.

Prerequisites: Applicants for this program must also have excellent communication skills (composition), sign a criminal/medical waiver, provide a physician’s waiver, submit a criminal record check (must be Schedule F), and provide evidence of clear TB testing prior to acceptance. All must be done no more than 3 months before the start date of the program. Preference will be given to those who can provide letters of reference detailing volunteer or professional experience working with children indicating suitability for working in the Early Childhood Education field. Note: Child Care sites may require more current Schedule F and TB testing (to be done at student’s expense) prior to practicum and/or observing.

Total Program Hours: 1110 Hours.
Full-time Program Length: 45 Weeks (10.5 Months).
Practicum Placements: Work Placement Overview.

Career Opportunities: Preschools/Group Child Care; Infant/Toddler Child Care; Family Daycare; Out-of-School Care; Teen Parent Programs; Foster Parenting; Cruise Lines & Resorts; Nanny; Supported Child Development; In-home Child Minding

Program may not be available at all campuses. Program content is subject to change.

Sprott-Shaw is a member of Early Childhood Educators of British Columbia (ECEBC).

Courses

Part I Classroom – 33 weeks

Part II Practicum – 9 weeks

Part III Classroom – 2 weeks