Early Childhood Education
About The Program
The Early Childhood Education (ECE) Diploma program equips you with the valuable knowledge, hands-on skills, and experience needed to become a qualified Early Childhood Educator. Through expert instruction and real-world practicum placements, you'll learn to support young children's development, create engaging learning environments, and build meaningful relationships with children and families.
This 50-week intensive program combines classroom learning with hands-on experience, including 1,070 hours of academic theory and 535 hours of in-person practicum placements across 4 different childcare settings. Graduate as a qualified Level 2 Early Childhood Educator ready to work in licensed daycare facilities, preschools, pre-primary programs, and family child care settings across Nova Scotia.
Students benefit from a curriculum specially designed to meet industry demand and employer needs in Nova Scotia. Learn from high-quality educators with real-world experience who provide expert instruction in child development, curriculum design, and family engagement. Study child development from conception through middle childhood, examining issues that arise in caring for different age groups.
Tuition Fee Guarantee
We're so confident in our program quality that we offer a full tuition refund if you graduate but don't receive any job offer (part-time or full-time) in the ECE field. Terms and conditions apply.
Career Opportunities
Graduate ready for roles including Early Childhood Educator, Preschool Teacher, Family Childcare Provider, Licensed Home Daycare Operator, and Early Learning Program Coordinator in licensed daycare facilities, preschools, community centers, and educational facilities across Nova Scotia.
Why This Program?
- 50-week program - fast-track your career
- Very strong demand for ECEs in Nova Scotia
- Thousands of new positions coming to NS
- Multiple certifications included
- 4 practicum placements in real childcare settings
Program Details
Comprehensive In-Person Training
Program Length: 50 weeks
Academic Theory: 1,070 hours of classroom learning
Practicum Experience: 535 hours across 4 placements
What You'll Gain
- 4 hands-on practicums (535 hours) in real childcare settings
- First Aid & CPR (Level C with AED) certification
- OHS, WHMIS & Food Safety certifications
- Expert instruction from experienced ECE professionals
- Career Academy Canada access for career-readiness skills
- Level 2 ECE qualification upon graduation
Key Topics Covered
- Child Development (Birth-12)
- Curriculum Development
- Social-Emotional Learning
- Family Engagement
- Inclusive Practices
- Professional Communication
- Assessment & Documentation
- Reflective Practice
Employment Outlook
The very strong demand for Early Childhood Educators in Nova Scotia is related to the ongoing implementation of the Nova Scotia Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care Agreement, where the number of childcare workers is expected to increase into the thousands across the province. The Government of Canada reports very good employment outlook for ECEs through 2026.
Additional Credential Option
If you have an ECE Level 2 credential and a university degree, successful completion of the program allows you to graduate with an ECE Level 3 credential.
Perfect For You If:
- You're passionate about early childhood development
- You want to make a meaningful impact on young learners' lives
- You're looking for a fast-track career path (under 1 year)
- You want guaranteed job prospects in a growing field
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