Career Guidance
Becoming an Early Childhood Education Professional
There is an increased demand for qualified and certified early childhood educators across communities in BC. ECE’s are professionals and a Certificate, Diploma, or Degree in Early Childhood Education offers a pathway into a rewarding career and an inspiring field. Educators in early learning play a key part in helping children learn and thrive as well as showcasing leadership, strength, and resilience in a caring and nurturing environment.
There is a need for more Indigenous ECE professionals in early learning environments so children can experience access to programs with an Indigenous perspective that also support families and communities. A career in early childhood education offers endless opportunities to explore and keep learning.
To be certified in BC as an Early Childhood Educator requires successful completion of an early childhood education training program that is recognized by the ECE Registry, or a program that is deemed equivalent. For further information, visit the website.
For details about applications, certifications, and regulations visit the BC Government website.
The following BC Universities and Colleges have Early Childhood Education programs that offer an Indigenous perspective on early learning:
Additional educational organizations with early childhood education programs can be searched for here on this website.
If you are considering an education and/or career in early childhood education and want to speak to someone about this career path, contact [email protected]. BCACCS Child Care Advisors are happy to share their knowledge with you.
There are opportunities to get support for education. Many Nations are able to support residents with funding toward their education. It’s worth asking the Council what is available. Most educational institutions will have scholarships or grants available, so remember to ask when you are exploring which program you will attend. There are also some alternate funding and grant opportunities that are worth taking a look at.
- Mary Thomas Memorial ECE Scholarship
- ECE Education Support Fund
- New Relationship Trust Bursaries & Scholarships
- WorkBC – Finance Your Education
- B.C. Employer Training Grant
- Community Workforce Response Grant
- Single Parent Employment Initiative
- Columbia Basin Trust Early Childhood Educator Training Wage Program
- Youth Empowered Speakers Program (First People’s Cultural Council) – ECE stream
Current Early Childhood Education Professionals
Early childhood educators are part of the building blocks of learning. They help lay the foundation for education and discovery, for the rest of a child’s life. They are also key figures in the lives of families.
As an early childhood educator in BC, you know the critical role that early learning plays for children, families, and communities. As an ECE professional, you are an integral part of education for our children. Ongoing training and certification can result in positive leadership, helpful mentorship, and consistent knowledge transfer.
If you are already an early learning professional and are looking to continue your professional development, look here for upcoming learning opportunities:
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To explore training opportunities outside of BCACCS visit our news and events page.
