Assiniboine Community College is currently accepting applications for its new Early Childhood Education Workplace program, which is set to begin on Feb. 22.
According to a Monday news release from the college, this program is designed for those who are currently employed by a child care centre and have two years of experience in the field.
It will allow these individuals to remain working at the centre they’re currently employed with, while also attending classes two days a week.
"The workplace iteration of the ECE program takes into account the students’ prior experience in the field, which allows the program to be delivered in a condensed format," said Karen Hargreaves, dean of the college’s School of Health and Human Services.
"While the program runs for a duration of two years, similar to the standard ECE program, having two days in classes per week as opposed to five means students continue working as they complete the program."
This program will feature cohorts in both Brandon and Boissevain, with 25 and 15 seats being available, respectively.
Once students complete this two-year program, they will receive a diploma in Early Childhood Education that will allow them to apply for their ECE Level 2 classification.
"Trained and certified workers in this field are in high demand," said Teresa Russell, chairperson of the college’s Early Childhood Education program. "This new program helps fill these needs with individuals who have already dedicated time to getting to know this profession."
Prospective applicants should visit the "Workplace Education" tab on the Early Childhood Education section of the college’s website, assiniboine.net/programs/early-childhood-education, to find out more information about this program.
» The Brandon Sun