5 – 8 Weeks
Early Childhood Education Assistant (ECEA)
Prepare to support early childhood educators in fostering the development and well-being of young children
Request Information
Fill out the form below and one of our Student Admissions Advisors will get in touch with you.
Shape the Future Through Early Childhood Education
The Early Childhood Education Assistant (ECEA) program at Western Community College equips students with foundational knowledge and skills to assist in early learning settings. The curriculum covers essential aspects of child development, safety protocols, and collaborative communication strategies. Graduates are prepared to support certified educators in nurturing young children’s growth and learning.
- Introduction to child development theories and practices.
- Training in creating safe and engaging learning environments.
- Emphasis on effective communication with children, families, and colleagues.
Next Intakes
Contact our admissions team today or request information on upcoming program start dates.
Career Opportunities in CHILDCARE
Become an Essential Member of the Childcare Workforce
$21*
Graduate Employment HOURLY Rate
*Based on Canada Job Bank
Field placements provide hands-on experience, ensuring graduates are ready to foster positive learning experiences for young children
- Early Childhood Education Assistant: Support lead educators in daycare centers and preschools.
- Childcare Worker: Provide care and supervision in various childcare settings.
- Recreation Program Assistant: Assist in children’s recreational and educational programs.
Why Study at Western Community College
Western Community College offers students an inclusive and vibrant learning environment, with dedicated support services to ensure your academic success and personal well-being.
- Installment-based, low tuition fee.
- Choose weekday, weekend, or evening classes to fit your schedule.
- Part-time or full-time class schedule.
- Free CLB preparation classes (*Conditions Apply).
Begin Your Path in CHILDCARE Career
Admission Requirements
Grade 12 or Mature Student Status (19 years of age or more).
Language Proficiency Requirements:
To demonstrate language proficiency, applicants must meet at least one of the following criteria:
Option 1:Â Secondary Education Evidence that three years of full-time secondary education (Grades 8-12) have been successfully completed in English in a country where English is one of the principal languages. This includes successful completion of a BC Adult Graduation program.
Option 2: Post-Secondary Education Evidence that two years of full-time post-secondary education have been completed in the program’s language of instruction at an accredited institution in a country where the language of instruction is one of the principal languages. Language development (ELL) courses cannot be included.
Option 3:Â Standardized Language Test Achievement of minimum scores on a recognized standardized language test:
| Name of English language assessment/test | Minimum score(s)/level(s)* |
|---|---|
| International English Language Testing System (IELTS) Academic | Minimum overall score of 5.5 |
| Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) IBT | Minimum overall score of 46 |
| Canadian Academic English Language Assessment (CAEL) | Minimum overall score of 40 |
| Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP) | Listening 6, Speaking 6, Reading 5, and Writing 5. |
| Duolingo English Test (DET) | Minimum overall score of 95 |
| Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic | Minimum overall score of 43 |
| Cambridge English Qualifications: B2 First exam (FCE) Institutions may include other Cambridge Qualifications at a higher level (i.e., C2 Proficiency (CPE)). | Minimum overall score of 160 or “C” |
| Cambridge Linguaskill | Minimum overall B2 level |
| LANGUAGECERT Academic | Minimum overall B2 level |
| The Michigan English Test (MET) | Minimum overall B2 level |
| iTEP Academic | Minimum overall score of 3.5 |
| EIKEN | Minimum placement of Grade Pre-1 |
Validity period of above Language Assessment Tests is two years.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
Accepted Countries for Prior Education The following countries are recognized for education completed in English:
| Name of English language assessment/test | Minimum score(s)/level(s)* |
|---|---|
| International English Language Testing System (IELTS) Academic | Minimum overall score of 5.5 |
| Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) IBT | Minimum overall score of 46 |
| Canadian Academic English Language Assessment (CAEL) | Minimum overall score of 40 |
| Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP) | Listening 6, Speaking 6, Reading 5, and Writing 5. |
| Duolingo English Test (DET) | Minimum overall score of 95 |
| Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic | Minimum overall score of 43 |
| Cambridge English Qualifications: B2 First exam (FCE) Institutions may include other Cambridge Qualifications at a higher level (i.e., C2 Proficiency (CPE)). | Minimum overall score of 160 or “C” |
| Cambridge Linguaskill | Minimum overall B2 level |
| LANGUAGECERT Academic | Minimum overall B2 level |
| The Michigan English Test (MET) | Minimum overall B2 level |
| iTEP Academic | Minimum overall score of 3.5 |
| EIKEN | Minimum placement of Grade Pre-1 |
Apply Now
Take the next step toward your future!
Gain the skills you need for success and take the first step toward a rewarding career. Enroll today to learn essential industry knowledge, enhance your expertise, and open doors to new opportunities.
Apply Now135
Total program
hours
2.5K
TOTAL GRADUATES
$21*
Graduate Employment HOURLY Rate
97%
Graduate Employment Rate
| Course # | Title of Course/Work Experience Component | # of Hours |
|---|---|---|
| ECEA010 | Child Growth and Development I | 45 |
| ECEA020 | Child Growth and Development II | 45 |
| ECEA030 | Interpersonal Communication | 45 |
| Total Hours | 135 |
Our Academic Partners
We collaborate with leading Legal profession courses to ensure our curriculum is relevant and up-to-date, providing our students with valuable insights and connections.
Our PartnersFee Structure
Tuition & Financing
We offer competitive tuition rates and flexible financing options to make your education at Western Community College both accessible and affordable.
BC Student Loan
In-house Financing
Student Line of Credit
Scholarships
Our dedicated Financial Aid Officers will help you every step of the way.
Finance Options-
Live in Caregiver
Develop the skills and knowledge necessary to provide compassionate care to individuals in a live-in setting.
-
Community Support Worker Diploma
Prepare to assist individuals and communities in accessing resources and support services to improve quality of life.
-
Addictions Support Worker Diploma
Develop specialized skills to support individuals dealing with substance use and addictive behaviors.
