Helping Canadians get back to work.

Early Childhood Assistant

About the Program

The Early Childhood Assistant diploma program prepares you to work with young children in daycare centers, kindergartens, and early learning environments. You'll study child development, educational psychology, program planning, and complete 480 hours of hands-on practicum placement working directly with children in real childcare settings.

Key Benefits

Career-ready in 38 weeks - one-year diploma with 520 hours theory, 480 hours internship
Comprehensive child development training - learn responsive relationships, behavior guidance, curriculum design, health and safety
Real classroom experience - gain hands-on practice in childcare centers, kindergartens, exceptional children centers
95% employment rate - strong job demand with earnings of $20-$28/hour, option to start your own family childcare center

Career Opportunities

Roles: Early Childhood Assistant in childcare centers, kindergartens, nursery schools, Montessori schools, centers for exceptional children, early learning centers

Why it matters: Help shape young minds during their most critical developmental years while building a stable career in Ontario's growing childcare sector

Search Schools

Not Sure Where to Start?

Choosing a school or program can feel overwhelming, especially when funding details, eligibility, and timelines may depend on your personal situation.

A good first step is to identify the type of training you’re interested in, then connect with schools that can explain program options, admissions steps, and available support.

Use the search tool to begin narrowing your options based on your goals.

*All student funding, whether made available privately or through various government branches, is only approved to those who qualify, by the original source of funding. There are many criteria that each candidate must meet to be approved. Schools can only inform you of what may be available.