Early Childhood Development Program
Overview
The Early Childhood Development Certificate Level 1 and Diploma Level 2 Programs prepare students for employment in Day Care Settings, Head Start programs and in Kindergartens as well as in Primary School Classrooms as Assistants to classroom teachers. The training includes, practical skill development in a practicum setting, as well as development of a theoretical understanding of all aspects of child development from both a Cree Cultural and an Academic knowledge base. Students will learn to care for and foster the wholistic development of young children.
Program Purpose
With the increasing responsibility being taken for the education of their children by First Nations comes the need for well trained, specialized personnel in Early Childhood Services. Conducting this training within the community provides workers able to ensure the
enhancement of Cree language and culture in the child care facilities of the communities.
Program Goals
To provide First Nations people with the opportunity to develop advanced skills to provide effective Early Childhood Services
To provide students with the skills, knowledge and professionalism necessary to deliver Early Childhood programs and take responsibility for the care of groups of children of varying ages within a daycare, head start, kindergarten and or primary school facility
To provide this training within a Cree cultural framework
To provide a basis from which students may move on to advanced studies in the field of Early Childhood Development
Program Certification
Level 1: E.C.D. 100 Course for Orientation Certication – Eligible for ECD Assistant from Alberta Children and Youth Services
Level 2: Early Childhood development Certicate Eligibility for Level 2 ECD License from Alberta Children and Youth Services
Level 3: Early Childhood Development Diploma Eligibility for Level 3 ECD License from Alberta Children and Youth Services
Career Opportunities
Graduates of Level 2 are prepared for employment as a daycare supervisor in the child care system. Level 3 Graduates are prepared for employment in a day care or head start program, or as a teaching assistant in kindergarten and primary schools.
Program Criteria
ECD Level 2 requires English 20-2
ECD Level 3 requires English 30-2 or equivalent