THUNDER BAY – Those interested in a career in childcare have a new way to get their foot in the door.
Confederation College is among a number of schools that will begin offering a free Pre-Early Childhood Education Certificate program, the college announced over the weekend.
The 10-week program, offered free online, is intended as a stepping stone to introduce learners to the field of early childhood education. It does not require any prerequisites.
“This innovative program provides flexible learning solutions for communities across northwestern Ontario” said Richard Gemmill, vice-president academic at the college. “Confederation College’s partnership on this exciting initiative will have a positive impact on so many communities across northwestern Ontario.”
The initiative is also intended to attract more people into the field, which is facing staffing shortages.
In a statement, the Thunder Bay District Social Services Board, which administers childcare funds in the city, welcomed the initiative.
“We are pleased to see this important program move forward,” said Chief Administrative Officer Bill Bradica. “This initiative provides a great opportunity to increase the human resources capacity in the Child Care system, leading to a decrease in the waitlist of licensed spaces.”
Graduates of the certificate program who find work in the field will be encouraged and supported to become an Early Childhood Educator through the completion of an apprenticeship or diploma program, the college added.
The program is offered in partnership with several Northern Ontario colleges and the Northern Ontario Service Deliverers Association (NOSDA)
This project is funded in part by the federal and provincial governments.
Those who are interested can learn more by contacting Carly Rich, Early Childhood Educator program coordinator, at 807-475-6289 or [email protected].
