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Early Childhood Education and Care Diploma (ECEC)

Certificate: Early Childhood Education and Care Diploma 
This is a 2-year program. qathet School District can sponsor up to 8 months of the program within the student's graduation year. Early Childhood Education and Care Diploma | Vancouver Island University

The ECEC program gives you the knowledge and skills to work with young children and their families in childcare settings. You will go through a series of theory classes and practicums that will help you integrate childhood development theory into practice. You learn how to develop responsive and inclusive environments for children. 

You learn to think methodically about your fundamental beliefs and how cultural, social and other forces shape your sense of self and your relationship with others. These skills equip you to support and nurture young learners.  

More information can be found on VIU’s website: Early Childhood Education and Care Diploma | Vancouver Island University

Apply Now
 
Who:                  

Grade 12 students 

What:                 

Up to 32 high school credits.

When:      

To be announced          

Where:       

Online

Why:                 

With an ECEC diploma you build a career working with children. You can work in licensed early learning and childcare centres and many other programs for children. You can also start your own daycare or work in a management role. 

  • Complete a substantial portion of your ECEC diploma early, reducing future course loads and making the transition to fullā€‘time postā€‘secondary smoother.

  • Build real skills for working with young children through handsā€‘on learning, guided practice, and foundational childā€‘development knowledge.

  • Become eligible for ECE Assistant certification after completing the required coursework, opening the door to paid work while finishing the rest of the diploma.

  • Enter a highā€‘demand field with strong career pathways, including roles in licensed early learning centres, preschool programs, and community childā€‘focused services.

  • Use your full ECEC diploma to build a longā€‘term career—graduates can work as educators, start their own daycare, or move into leadership and management roles.

  • Gain clarity and confidence about your future by exploring a purposeā€‘driven profession before fully committing to the remaining year of training.

How:                  

  • Read the Dual Credit Information Package.

  • Apply Now - Review and complete the Dual Credit Application. Gain acceptance into the program.

    • Meet with Mrs. Ellis, Career Pathways Coordinator, to review availability, information package, application, and requirements.

    • VIU Admission Requirements: 

      • Successful completion of English 12, minimum “C” grade  

      • Résumé describing education and employment background. 

      • Two letters of reference, completed on a University Reference Form, from persons other than relatives. At least one letter of reference must document completion of 20 hours in a licensed childcare facility, such as a family childcare, group day care or pre-school. 

      • Group interview with the Program Chair and faculty. 

      Please note: Enrolment in this VIU program is limited. Students who meet or exceed the minimum admission requirements may not necessarily be admitted to the program. 

      Once accepted, additional requirements include: 

      • C.P.R. Emergency Child Care Certificate, or equivalent. The First Aid certification must be valid for entire practicum placements.  

      • Criminal Record Checks through the Ministry. VIU will contact successful applicants with how to complete this requirement 

  • Pay Fees - This program is valued at over $6000. Check the VIU program page for updated fees. qathet School District will cover your tuition only. You are responsible for all other fees (including deposit, application, lab, student, grad fees, criminal record check and student membership to professional organization (ECEBC) - approximately $890, as well as textbooks, and supplies - approximately $850). Visit the VIU program page or contact VIU for updated fees. 

    • A $200 deposit is required to secure your spot in the program. Students withdrawing from the programacceptance  after will be subject to a $500 withdrawal fee.

  • Attend class 5 days per week. Not adhering to strict university guidelines will result in withdrawal from the program.

  • Assessment will be provided by your VIU instructor according to VIU's reporting period. A final grade will be given on your Brooks Learning Update. Recognizing that university courses expectations can be rigorous, it is strongly recommended that students communicate frequently about their progress with both their VIU Instructor and Brooks Career Pathways Coordinator.

  • Receive up to 32 high school credits upon the successful completion of the program. 

  • Review requirements to continue the pathway to complete the Early Childhood Education and Care Diploma. 

  • If required, seek IEP, counselling and student supports through the VIU Student Support Team or through the Brooks Career Counselling Office. 

More Info/Helpful Links:   
 
Apply Now
Early Childhood Education and Care Diploma | Vancouver Island University

Questions? Contact: 

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