Become an Early Childhood Educator

Early Childhood Educators (ECEs) play an important role in our community.

ECEs create the conditions for healthy brain development, and help children build relationships and healthy lifestyles. They are caring, reflective and resourceful professionals who support diverse and inclusive experiences for children and families. Early childhood education lays the foundation for lifelong learning, behaviour and health.

ECEs focus on children's physical, social, emotional and cognitive development, and their interaction with the world around them. Every day, ECEs provide safe, responsive and caring interactions that build a strong foundation for children's development and well-being. Children in high-quality learning environments often show stronger verbal communication, reading, math and science skills, along with other benefits.

Learn more from the Government of Ontario

Watch the video below for more on the benefits of being an ECE in St. Thomas and Elgin County:

Get your ECE diploma

You can earn your Early Childhood Education diploma through Fanshawe College's Early Childhood Education program at its St. Thomas campus.

The program combines coursework with hands-on field experience, so you graduate ready to begin your career. You'll build your knowledge of child development, and learn about the importance of play in children's learning, family involvement, and curriculum design.

Financial assistance for upgrading your qualifications

If you currently work in child care and want to upgrade your qualifications, you may be eligible for funding through the Early Childhood Educators Qualifications Upgrade Program. This program supports people working in early years settings who are studying to earn their ECE diploma and become eligible for membership with the College of Early Childhood Educators (CECE).