Support for Early Childhood Educators
Early care and learning professionals play a critical role in caring for and preparing kids for the future. Learn about education and certification options.
The Early Care and Learning Recruitment and Retention Strategy details our plan to improve support for the sector.
ECE Education Support Fund
Apply for bursary funding while you complete your post-secondary Early Childhood Educator (ECE) certification. Priority for the Fall 2021 semester will go to students who:
- Self-identify as Indigenous (First Nations, Métis or Inuit)
- Are completing their final requirements for certification
- Are upgrading their credentials to include Infant Toddler Educator and/or Special Needs Educator qualifications.
Those interested in the ECE Education Support Fund can apply through the ECEBC website.
Education and Training
Take your skills to the next level or start a new career in early care and learning.
- Get certified as an early childhood educator
- Upcoming child care workshops (Child Care Resource & Referral Centres)
The government is funding new ECE seats at B.C. post-secondary institutions, ranging from part-time certificates to full-time diplomas.
Manage Your Certification
Connect with the ECE Registry to apply for a certificate or renew or validate your existing one.
- Apply for an ECE or Early Childhood Educator Assistant (ECEA) Certificate
- Renew your ECE or ECEA Certificate
- Validate an ECE or ECEA Certificate
Professional Development
The Early Childhood Pedagogy Network will provide a platform for ECEs working in the field to collaborate with peers, reflect on best practices and share innovative ways to enhance the early years learning environment across the province.
Wage Enhancement
Front-line Early Childhood Educators (ECEs) working in licensed child care facilities are now eligible to receive an additional $2 per hour wage enhancement (WE) bringing the total to $4 per hour. This is the third wage enhancement offered to licensed ECEs since September 2018, following a $1 per hour WE in January 2019 and another $1 per hour WE in April 2020.
- Child care providers can apply for the Early Childhood Educator Wage Enhancement
Early Learning and Child Care Engagement
British Columbia is committed to the well-being, care, and learning of children. We value your input and would like to know what you think is most critical as we continue to evolve early learning and child care in British Columbia.
