Program Description Young children making the transition from home to child care or preschool need an enthusiastic, positive role model. They need someone dedicated to encouraging learning and growth. They need … you. Saskatchewan Polytechnic's one-year Early Childhood Education (ECE) certificate program gives you the knowledge and skills you need to work in a variety of child care settings. The ECE program integrates current research on early childhood education into all of your courses. You’ll develop strong communication, observation and documentation skills. You’ll receive well-rounded training in: Child and adolescent development Child guidance techniques Role of early childhood educators Role of play in programming Values and practice of early childhood education Programming for creative arts, language, cognitive, social and emotional development The emphasis on observation and documentation is market-driven—these are essential to building positive relationships with families, and employers are eager to hire grads with well-developed skills. You’ll interact with young children throughout your program, thanks to Saskatchewan Polytechnic’s partnerships with community and campus child care centres. Saskatoon students also have access to a unique learning opportunity—10% of all your courses are based on work in our Early Childhood Demonstration Centre. At the end of your first and second semesters, you’ll also participate in practicums (i.e., 4 weeks and 6 weeks), in a child care or preschool setting. This real-world learning gives you a competitive edge in the workforce.
When you graduate, you’re eligible to apply to become a licensed Level II Early Childhood Educator (ECE). Many child care centres and preschools only hire licensed ECEs. You can also go on to earn a diploma in Early Childhood Education with one more year of study. Or, you can transfer some of your credits to the University of Regina’s Bachelor of Education degree program in Elementary Education.
Early childhood educators are in demand in Saskatchewan—and employers are especially eager to hire Saskatchewan Polytechnic grads because of your well-rounded knowledge and up-to-date skills. Look for ECE jobs in child care centres, preschools, family day homes, elementary school settings and even private homes.
