At Dunsmuir College, we prepare students for successful careers through practical education, industry-focused programs, and real-world learning opportunities.

Early Childhood Education Assistant (ECEA)

Start Your Journey in Early Childhood Education

The Early Childhood Education Assistant (ECEA) program at Dunsmuir College is designed to provide students with the foundational knowledge, practical skills, and professional competencies required to support licensed Early Childhood Educators in childcare and early learning environments.

The program focuses on child development, health and safety, nutrition, observation techniques, and professional practice, preparing students to contribute positively to children’s learning, well-being, and development.

Program Overview

The Early Childhood Education Assistant program introduces students to the principles and practices that support quality early childhood education. Students develop an understanding of child growth and development, inclusive learning environments, safety procedures, and effective communication within childcare settings.

The curriculum is designed to align with industry expectations and provide foundational preparation for individuals interested in supporting early childhood education programs in British Columbia.

Program Purpose

The program prepares students to effectively support certified Early Childhood Educators by developing knowledge and skills related to:

  • Child health, safety, and well-being
  • Nutrition and healthy learning environments
  • Daily routines and classroom support
  • Observation and documentation practices
  • Child development foundations
  • Inclusive and respectful learning environments
  • Professional conduct and ethical responsibilities
  • Supporting children's learning through play-based experiences

Program Information

Early Childhood Education Assistant (ECEA)

School of Education

Program Length

7 Weeks

Total Instructional Hours

45 Hours

Delivery Method

Distance Synchronous Learning

Location

Online Learning Environment

(Mon - Fri : 08.00-17.00)

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At Dunsmuir College, students gain more than knowledge. They develop confidence, workplace skills, and valuable experience that supports long-term professional success.

Curriculum Overview

01

Explore the foundations of early learning, child-centered approaches, and the role of the Early Childhood Education Assistant.

02

Develop an understanding of child health, nutrition, safety procedures, and healthy learning environments.

03

Examine stages of child development and factors influencing children's growth, learning, and well-being.

04

Learn how to support daily routines, classroom activities, and developmentally appropriate learning experiences.

05

Develop skills related to observing children's development and documenting learning experiences effectively and professionally.

Career Opportunities

Graduates may pursue entry-level opportunities in early learning and childcare environments under the supervision of certified Early Childhood Educators.

Employment Settings May Include

  • Licensed childcare centres
  • Preschool programs
  • Infant and toddler programs
  • Before and after school care programs
  • Early learning centres
  • Community childcare organizations
  • Family childcare environments

 

Typical Responsibilities May Include

  • Supporting daily classroom activities
  • Assisting with supervision and transitions
  • Supporting healthy and safe learning environments
  • Participating in observation and documentation activities
  • Assisting with planned learning experiences
  • Supporting inclusive and respectful classroom practices

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of the program, students will be able to:

  • Apply health, safety, and nutrition principles within early childhood settings.
  • Follow established procedures for food preparation, storage, service, and sanitation.
  • Recognize and respond appropriately to illness, injury, and emergency situations.
  • Support children with diverse learning needs and developmental abilities.
  • Demonstrate professional communication and ethical conduct.
  • Assist with observation and documentation practices used in early learning environments.
  • Promote inclusive, culturally responsive, and child-centered learning experiences.
  • Support the implementation of developmentally appropriate activities and routines.

Required Learning Resources

Students may be required to access designated learning materials, course readings, and educational resources throughout the program. Specific textbook and resource requirements will be communicated prior to program commencement.

Certification & Licensing Pathway

Successful completion of the Early Childhood Education Assistant program may support eligibility to apply for ECEA recognition through the appropriate provincial regulatory authority, subject to all applicable requirements, assessments, and approvals. Students are encouraged to review current regulatory requirements and licensing criteria directly with the relevant governing body.

Admission Requirements

Applicants must meet the admission requirements established by Dunsmuir College and demonstrate the language proficiency necessary for successful participation in the program.

Academic Schedule

Program start dates may vary throughout the year. Contact the Admissions Team for upcoming intakes and enrollment information.

Why Study Here

Why Choose Dunsmuir College?

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Student-Centered Learning

Receive personalized support throughout your educational journey.

Practical Training

Develop workplace-ready skills that can be applied in real childcare settings.

Experienced Instructors

Learn from professionals with industry knowledge and educational experience.

Flexible Learning

Distance synchronous delivery provides convenient access to quality education.

Career Preparation

Build foundational skills that support future opportunities within early childhood education.

Supportive Learning Environment

Study in a respectful, inclusive, and collaborative educational community.

Tuition Fees

Explore the foundations of early learning, child-centered approaches, and the role of the Early Childhood Education Assistant.

$995.00

Develop an understanding of child health, nutrition, safety procedures, and healthy learning environments.

$295.00

Examine stages of child development and factors influencing children's growth, learning, and well-being.

#300

Note: Program fees are subject to change. Students should confirm current tuition and fee information with Dunsmuir College before enrollment.

Program Disclaimer

Program content, course structure, schedules, and fees may be updated periodically to maintain academic quality, regulatory compliance, and industry relevance.

Frequently Asked Questions

The program is completed over 7 weeks and includes approximately 45 instructional hours.

Yes. The program is delivered through a distance synchronous learning format.

Graduates may seek entry-level opportunities supporting licensed Early Childhood Educators in childcare and early learning environments.

Yes. Child development foundations form an important part of the curriculum.

Program completion may support eligibility requirements; however, licensing and registration decisions are determined by the applicable regulatory authority.

The program is delivered through a blended format consisting of approximately 50% in-person learning and 50% distance education.