Assiniboine College is continuing to strengthen its commitment to accessible and inclusive Early Childhood Education (ECE) training with two new programs - an accelerated online ECE diploma and ECE Qualification Recognition (Foreign-Trained Individuals) - both have limited seats available and are set to begin in January 2025.
"This initiative reflects our commitment to providing accessible, high-quality education for all students, no matter where they are or where they come from. By offering flexible online programs and pathways for internationally trained educators, we're not only addressing the growing demand for skilled early childhood professionals but also empowering learners to succeed in early childhood education." said Karen Hargreaves, Dean, Health and Human Services at Assiniboine College. "These two programs provide a unique opportunity for students to "earn while you learn", with classes being held two days a week to have learners continuing to work in industry while furthering their education."
As part of these new pathways, interested students may qualify for financial supports, including a $5,000 tuition reimbursement available through the Province of Manitoba meaning tuition may be covered while students continue to work in industry.
"Our government understands the significant need for early childhood educators across Manitoba. We're proud to support students pursuing such an important career path with tuition reimbursement, so they can focus on their studies and not worry about finances. Assiniboine's new and enhanced programming will prepare Manitoba's early childhood educators to provide the best learning environment possible for our children," said Tracy Schmidt, Acting Minister of Education and Early Childhood Learning, Province of Manitoba.
Recognizing the need for workers to continue serving this growing sector, early learning centres hiring new employees to participate in the program may also be eligible for the Province of Manitoba's staff replacement grant, making this an excellent opportunity for both students and employers to enhance their learning.
"Our government is committed to providing Manitobans with equitable access to the best training and educational opportunities. We are grateful to have a strong partner in Assiniboine College, who is creating opportunities for future early childhood educators to pursue education close to home and is preparing them for careers that will help build our province's economy." added Renee Cable, Minister of Advanced Education and Training, Province of Manitoba.
The online ECE diploma program allows students to pursue education without relocating, and provides flexibility for those balancing work, family, or other commitments. With the remote delivery model, the program aims to ensure equitable access to learners, helping students from all corners of the province enter or enhance their learning as an ECE.
"I live in Steinbach, Manitoba and work at a daycare in Grunthal, MB about 20 minutes away from my home. The program is working out well for me and it has been meeting all my needs. It has been an adjustment with having school online, but it has been so much easier for me to focus and get my assignments done on time, " said Tasha Wiese, ECE online student. "This course has helped me a lot because it has brought new insights into how children grow and what we do for them while they are in our care. This course is making me a better caregiver to the children because I am taking what I have learned and am applying it in my workplace."
For individuals educated internationally in early learning or child care, Assiniboine's ECE Qualification Recognition (Foreign-Trained Individuals) offers a streamlined path to Canadian certification. This program aligns international credentials with Manitoba standards, supporting participants as they transition into the province's childhood education workforce; with programming being delivered part-time (evenings and weekends) at the college's Border Street campus in Winnipeg.
"The demand for qualified early childhood educators is increasing, and our community is fortunate to have many foreign-trained professionals eager to contribute their expertise." said Matthew May, Chair of Early Learning and Education at Assiniboine. "The Early Childhood Education Qualification Recognition Program was designed to help these individuals gain recognition for their credentials and integrate smoothly into the local industry. By promoting cultural understanding and bridging knowledge gaps, the program creates opportunities for newcomers to thrive while addressing the growing need for skilled early childhood educators."
Both two-year ECE diploma programs prepare students to foster children's development across physical, emotional, and cognitive domains, and combine theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience. The curriculum emphasizes the importance of play-based learning, equipping future educators to create inclusive and culturally responsive environments that support children's holistic development.
Graduates of Assiniboine's ECE programs are in high demand across the province, with career opportunities in early learning centers, nursery schools, and family resource facilities. Successful completion of the program provides graduates with Level II Early Childhood Educator classification, further enhancing their employability.
For more information about Assiniboine's Early Childhood Education programs including how to apply, visit assiniboine.net/ece, or for the Qualification Recognition stream visit assiniboine.net/eceqr.
