The British Columbia (BC) government encourages individuals to pursue a profession in Early Childhood Education (ECE) and provides financial assistance to students who want to become Early Child Educators. Students looking to pursue an ECE program may avail the benefits of the ECE bursary program offered by the government. Read on to know more about it.
What is ECE student bursary program?
The ECE student bursary is a BC government initiative that provides financial assistance to students enrolled in an ECE training program in an accredited post-secondary institution.
What are the eligibility criteria for applying for the bursary program?
To be eligible to apply for the bursary, you must be:
- An indigenous resident of BC
- Studying for an ECE credential recognized by the ECE Registry
- Furthermore, priority is given to the individuals who are:
- Completing their final certification criteria
- Adding Infant Toddler Educator and/or Special Needs Educator to their credentials.
What is the amount of funding offered?
Eligible candidates may apply for up to $500 for each course, up to a maximum of 8 courses, for a total of $4,000 per semester to help pay for tuition. The amount awarded will depend on the number of courses completed. For example, if a candidate registered for five courses but only finished three, the final payment will reflect just the three successfully completed courses.
How to apply for the bursary program?
- Register in a post-secondary program of your wish.
- Apply to ECEBC for bursary funding.
- Your application is reviewed for bursary funding. Selected applications are approved.
- Carry on with your coursework or practicum.
- On successful completion of your coursework, provide a transcript from the post-secondary institution.
- You receive funding from ECEBC.
Is the program for working professionals?
No, the ECE student program is not available for working professionals. But there is another program in place available for working individuals – ECE Workforce Bursary. It is designed to assist ECEs, ECE Assistants, Responsible Adults (as defined by the Child Care Licensing Regulation), and StrongStart BC Facilitators who are presently employed in the ECE area and want to update their qualifications.
For which bursary program can working students apply?
Students who are presently employed are eligible to apply for the ECE Student Bursary and the ECE Workforce Bursary Development Fund if they are employed in a licensed child care program or a StrongStart BC program. However, candidates who qualify for both streams are restricted to applying to just one. Applicants are permitted to move between the two streams so long as the applications are for distinct semesters.
Conclusion
Early Childhood Education (ECE) is a great career path for people who enjoy working with children. The BC government encourages you to pursue a career in ECE, and you can take advantage of this opportunity. If you are interested in making ECE your profession, the ECE program at Western Community College will help you build all the necessary skills you’ll need to be a successful child educator and make an impact on a child’s life.
