Education
Early Childhood Education
With triOS College, turn your passion for working with children into a successful career. Early Childhood Educators support children’s education and development while establishing positive relationships with families and the community.
Program Start date: May 11, 2026 and September 7, 2026
College Approved Program
The Early Childhood Education Diploma Program offered by triOS College —Mississauga and Toronto Campus have been approved by the College of Early Childhood Educators for a period of two years (2026-2028) for the purpose of meeting the education requirement for registration.
About The Program
Begin your journey toward a meaningful career in Early Childhood Education with Eastern College. In just 60 weeks, you will gain the knowledge, practicum experience, and confidence to nurture the growth and development of children from birth to age twelve. This CECE-approved program equips you to create developmentally appropriate curriculum, foster inclusive learning environments, and apply positive guidance strategies that support the well-being of every child.
Through 525 hours of supervised field practicums, supported by weekly seminars, you will connect classroom learning with real-world practice and graduate career-ready. The program also prepares you with skills in digital literacy, career planning, and professional wellness, ensuring you are equipped to succeed in today’s diverse and evolving early learning sector. With a strong focus on child development, health and safety, Indigenous history and culture, and inclusive education, you will graduate with both the qualifications and practical experience needed to apply for registration as a Registered Early Childhood Educator (RECE). Note: This program is offered at our Mississauga and Toronto campuses only.
Career Opportunities
As an Early Childhood Education graduate, you may qualify for positions such as:
- Registered Early Childhood Educator (RECE)
- Daycare Supervisor or Child-care Centre Worker
- Early Years Facilitator in community programs
- Educational Assistant in schools
- Before and After School Program Leader
- Support Worker for children with exceptionalities
Salary
$
18
Average Wage/HR**
$
29
High Wage/HR**
*Employment Rate based on 2023 contactable triOS graduates employed in a related field within 12 months.
Source: workingincanada.gc.ca
NOC Code: 4214/42202 - **Wage data rounded down to the nearest dollar. Average wage doesn't reflect the starting salary but represents the middle value between lowest to highest wages. Local (or regional) income may vary. Last updated in July 2024.
Program Details
Step into a career where every day is an opportunity to shape young minds and support families in meaningful ways.
Our Early Childhood Education diploma is approved by the College of Early Childhood Educators (CECE), giving you the qualifications to apply for registration as a Registered Early Childhood Educator (RECE) in Ontario. Over 60 weeks, you will study child development from birth to age twelve, inclusive practices for children with exceptionalities, Indigenous history and culture, and strategies to foster positive guidance and safe, healthy learning environments.
Hands-on training is at the heart of the program, with 525 hours of supervised field practicums supported by weekly seminars. You will connect classroom learning with real-world practice, gaining the confidence to design curriculum and support children’s growth in diverse settings. Courses in digital literacy, career planning, and professional wellness also prepare you to graduate career-ready in a growing profession.
Students of this program will receive:
- 525 hours of supervised practicums across three placements
- Weekly field seminars to connect theory with practice
- Training in curriculum planning across language, math, science, music, and movement
- Career readiness support, including résumé development, LinkedIn profile building, and interview preparation
- A CECE-approved diploma that qualifies you to apply as a Registered Early Childhood Educator (RECE)
Program Fees:
| Description | Year 1 | Year 2 | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tuition | $5,860.00 | $5,860.00 | $11,720.00 |
| Technology Fee | $1,031.00 | $1,031.00 | $2,062.00 |
| Student Service Fee | $104.00 | $104.00 | $208.00 |
| Domestic Subtotal Before Taxes | $6,995.00 | $6,995.00 | $13,990.00* |
Note: *Program fees represent the domestic subtotal before taxes and include tuition and service fees for two semesters per year.
Course Listings
Career Planning & Preparation - Level 1
This course will introduce you to, and provide practice in, using the tools required for a successful job search. Concepts covered in this course will help you maintain a career-focused approach throughout your studies so that you are better prepared to conduct a job search after graduating. Specifically, you will learn how to identify your soft and hard skills and how to articulate your abilities in a clear and concise Elevator Pitch that will appeal to employers and resonate with industry contacts. You will learn about the job search resources available to you including using career websites, creating LinkedIn profiles, accessing the “hidden” job market, and networking. You will examine sample résumés and cover letters and begin the process of creating your own professional résumés and cover letters that align with current conventions for content, organization, and formatting. You will also learn about the role of references, thank you letters, workplace philosophies, and strategies for success including maintaining a professional image and using proper etiquette when communicating with potential employers and industry contacts.
Career Planning & Preparation - Level 2
This module builds on concepts and skills introduced in the Career Planning and Preparation Level 1 module. In this subsequent module, you will update and refine your résumé and LinkedIn Profile. You will continue writing cover letters and learn the value of customizing cover letters to specific job postings. You will have the opportunity to apply this knowledge as you conduct a job search and write a cover letter tailored to an ideal job post. Through research, you will create a list of top employers and target current industry opportunities. You will learn about current methods for applying to job postings using technology. You will also gain an understanding of the job interview process, typical interview questions and possible responses, and expectations of both the interviewer and interviewee. In addition, you will engage in practical application of the interview process through role-play. Topics such as negotiating salary, self-management, and on-the-job success for placements and post-graduate employment will be also covered.
Digital Literacy for Professionals
This course introduces essential concepts and principles for navigating and working in a digital environment. Key topics include using devices, managing information, creating and editing content, communicating and collaborating with digital tools, and ensuring online safety and responsibility. You will also apply best practices for folder organization and file naming conventions.
Assessment and Observations Methods in ECE
This course emphasizes the effective use of various observation and assessment methods as well as different tools to document children’s learning and development across all four developmental domains using a variety of tools. You will learn how to collect, analyze, interpret, and apply observation and assessment data to early learning and care program curriculum. You will study various information and resource sharing strategies that can be effectively implemented with families.
Curriculum Planning Part 1
This course provides you with the knowledge and skills to plan and implement developmentally appropriate curriculum in preparation for practicum. You will use observation data to inform curriculum planning using various tools and templates. You will study the application of play-based pedagogy and emergent curriculum practices. Developmental theorists and their theories as well as provincial frameworks are reviewed. The use of reflective practice and evaluation of learning experiences for young children is also discussed.
Foundations of Early Childhood Education
This introductory course provides you with foundational knowledge of the field of Early Childhood Education. You will explore the role of an Early Childhood Educator as well as develop a comprehensive understanding of the legislation and curriculum frameworks that govern practice in a variety of early learning and care settings and elementary settings for a range of age groups (birth to age twelve).
Health, Safety, and Nutrition in Early Childhood Education
This course will focus on the health of young children, specifically safety, nutrition, and well-being from prenatal to school age. You will study the role of an Early Childhood Educator in ensuring the health and safety of young children in early learning and care environments. The importance of supporting the well-being of children through inclusive, emotionally supportive environments and positive relationships, including the legislated duty to report abuse and neglect, will also be discussed.
Child Development Part 1
This course provides you with an in-depth study of each of the developmental domains: physical, cognitive, emotional, and social, from conception to toddlerhood. Biological, environmental, and cultural influences on child development are studied. In addition, you will explore a variety of resources that facilitate optimal growth and development for young children in the Early Childhood Education context.
Creating Effective Partnerships in ECE Settings
In this course, you will explore the importance of, and specific strategies for, building effective partnerships between Early Childhood Educators and various stakeholders in early learning and care settings. Topics include positive communication practices, supporting family involvement, and exploring ways to respond to the diverse demographic of Canadian families.
ECE Field Practicum 1
During the first field practicum, you will have the opportunity to apply course theory in an early learning and care setting. You will begin to practice vocational skills, including observation and assessment, and the planning and implementation of developmentally appropriate curriculum for children in one age group (infant, toddler, preschool, or school age). Under the constant supervision and mentorship of a Registered Early Childhood Educator in good standing, you will practice vocational skills with children individually as well as in small and large groups. You will establish and maintain positive relationships with children, families, and practicum site staff while acting as a full participant in the classroom.
Legislation Governing Early Childhood Education
This course provides you with an in-depth analysis of the legislation governing the profession of Early Childhood Education in the province of Ontario. You will study administrative policies and procedures, professional responsibilities and obligations of an Early Childhood Educator, as well as the roles of each tier of government that directly and indirectly impacts the sector. Finally, you will explore the integration of legislation into the Ministry of Education’s pedagogical documents and how this knowledge will inform your practice as an Early Childhood Education professional.
Positive Guidance in Early Childhood Education
This course will provide you with the knowledge and skills required to establish and maintain positive, responsive relationships with young children. You will review child development principles for all age groups with a focus on connecting developmental stages to observed behaviours. You will explore a variety of developmentally appropriate child guidance strategies to suit individual children and groups of children in preparation for classroom management during practicum. The work of developmental theorists, including Pavlov, Skinner, Erikson, and Bronfenbrenner, will also be considered.
ECE Field Seminar 1
This seminar is a component of your field practicuum. During this weekly synchronous seminar, you can share your experiences in your placement, ask questions, and pool knowledge with your peers. To accommodate potential travel issues you may experience, the seminar will be held online on a weekly basis for three hours for the twelve weeks of your placement. Note that the seminar hours do not count towards your field practicum hours.
Child Development Part 2
This course provides you with an in-depth study of each of the developmental domains: physical, cognitive, emotional, and social, from preschool to age twelve. Biological, environmental, and cultural influences on child development are studied. In addition, you will explore a variety of resources that facilitate optimal growth and development for young children in the Early Childhood Education context.
Curriculum Planning Part 2
This course furthers the knowledge and skills you will require when planning and implementing developmentally appropriate curriculum in preparation for your second practicum. You will continue to use observation data to inform curriculum planning using various tools and templates, including more advanced assessment and documentation resources. Various pedagogical methods are studied; methods are contrasted with play-based and emergent curriculum practices. Finally, you will review legislation, provincial frameworks, and the use of reflective practice and evaluation of learning experiences for young children.
Inclusive Learning for Children with Exceptionalities
This course builds on your knowledge of observation, assessment, and child development knowledge from year one. By establishing an understanding and appreciation of diverse skills and abilities across all age groups, the educator's role in planning for children’s individual needs as well as ensuring a supportive and inclusive learning environment for all will be emphasized. The importance of a collaborative approach, including family involvement as part of the multi-disciplinary team, will be studied.
ECE Field Practicum 2
During the second field practicum, you will have the opportunity to apply advanced child development and curriculum planning theory in an early learning and care setting and/or elementary school setting. You will continue to practice vocational skills, including observation and assessment, and the planning and implementation of developmentally appropriate curriculum for children in one age group (infant or toddler or preschool or school age). Under the constant supervision and mentorship of a Registered Early Childhood Educator in good standing, you will continue to practice vocational skills with children individually as well as in small and large groups. Finally, you will continue to establish and maintain positive relationships with children, families, and practicum site staff while acting as a full participant in the classroom as an emerging leader.
Preventive Measures & Intervention Strategies
This course prepares you for the legal responsibility to report suspicions of child abuse and child neglect as Early Childhood Educators. You will develop a comprehensive understanding of your legal and professional obligations in accordance with provincial legislation and the CECE Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice. Reporting policies and procedures will be emphasized. Cooperation with child protection agencies as well as interactions with families will be studied. Child-focused interventions, including play therapy in early learning and care environments, will also be described.
ECE Field Seminar 2
This seminar is a component of your field practicuum. During this weekly, synchronous seminar, you can share your experiences in your placement, ask questions, and pool knowledge with your peers. To accommodate potential travel issues you may experience, the seminar will be held online on a weekly basis for three hours for the twelve weeks of your placement. Note that the seminar hours do not count towards your field practicum hours.
ECE Field Practicum 3
During the third and final field practicum, you will have the opportunity to apply advanced child development and curriculum planning theory in an early learning and care and/or elementary school or alternative setting. You will continue to practice vocational skills, including observation and assessment, and the planning and implementation of developmentally appropriate curriculum for children in one age group (infant, toddler, preschool, or school age). Under the constant supervision and mentorship of a Registered Early Childhood Educator in good standing, you will continue to practice vocational skills with children individually as well as in small and large groups. You will continue to establish and maintain positive relationships with children, families, and practicum site staff while acting as a full participant in the classroom as an emerging leader.
Literature for Children
This course furthers the knowledge and skills you will require for planning and implementing developmentally appropriate curriculum. You will complete an in-depth study of children’s literature for infants to age twelve. You will use provincial frameworks, child observation data, as well as environmental ratings including the Assessment for Quality Improvement (AQI) to inform curriculum planning specific to language and literacy. Various curriculum resources that facilitate language and literacy learning will be explored. Cultural influences on curriculum will also be discussed.
Music & Movement for Children
This course furthers the knowledge and skills you require for planning and implementing developmentally appropriate curriculum. You will complete an in-depth study of music and movement learning from birth to twelve years of age. You will use provincial frameworks, child observation data, as well as environmental ratings including the Assessment for Quality Improvement (AQI) to inform curriculum planning specific to music and movement. Various curriculum resources that facilitate music and movement learning will be explored. Cultural influences on curriculum will also be discussed.
Professional Development in Early Childhood Education
In his course, you will study the essential practice of professional development as an Early Childhood Educator specific to the province of Ontario. Professional development strategies, including on-going reflective practice, maintaining current professional knowledge, establishing colleague supports, as well as the short- and long-term documentation of learning using portfolios, will be emphasized. The relationship between professional development and the role and responsibilities of an Early Childhood Educator, including advocacy, will also be discussed.
Professional Wellness in Early Childhood Education
This course promotes the importance of wellness specific to education professionals, including cognitive, social, emotional, and physical health and well-being. You will learn how to implement specific strategies to support your overall wellness. Strategies include effective stress management, mindfulness, reflective practice, and healthy behaviours and self care, among others. How professional wellness applies to an Early Childhood Educator’s relationships with children, families, and colleagues will also be discussed.
Science & Math for Children
This course furthers the knowledge and skills you will require for planning and implementing developmentally appropriate curriculum. You will complete an in-depth study of scientific and numeracy learning from birth to twelve years of age. You will use provincial frameworks, child observation data, as well as environmental ratings including the Assessment for Quality Improvement (AQI) to inform curriculum planning specific to science and math. Various curriculum resources that facilitate science and math learning will be explored. Cultural influences on curriculum will also be discussed.
ECE Field Seminar 3
During this weekly synchronous seminar, you can share your experiences in your placement, ask questions, and pool knowledge with your peers. Note that in this final semester, the seminar will run for 23 hours (seven weeks or as determined by the instructor). As in Seminar 2, to accommodate potential travel issues you may experience, the seminar will be held online on a weekly basis for three hours (or as set by the instructor) for a portion of your placement. Note that the seminar hours do not count towards your field practicum hours.
Indigenous Studies
In this course, you will build your knowledge of the history of Indigenous peoples, specifically in Canada. The contemporary social issues experienced by Indigenous peoples will also be studied, including land agreements, the residential school system, and the “Sixties Scoop.” You will also study colonialization, land treaties, and past and present Canadian government policies and legislation. The Calls to Action, as established by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, will also be discussed.
This course satisfies the Social and Cultural Understanding General Education theme.
Global Citizenship
This introductory course provides you with knowledge of what it means to be a global citizen. Current global social issues will be studied, including human rights, the environment, and community ethics, among others. You will research case studies of global citizens who have acted as change agents and become familiar with various global social issues, discuss strategies to solve them, and reflect on the change process.
This course satisfies the Social and Cultural Understanding and Civic Life General Education themes.
Student Success Strategies
This course stresses the importance of developing non-technical skills to enhance personal, academic, and career success. This includes understanding learning styles and honing practical study skills, such as memory, reading, note- and test-taking techniques. Personal exercises will focus on teamwork, setting goals, and maintaining a positive attitude. Techniques for managing change, stress, and conflict will also be explored.
Admission Requirements
- Student has an Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent, OR
- Is 18 years of age or older on or before the program begins AND can pass a qualifying test that has been approved by the Superintendent.
- The approved qualifying test for this program is the Wonderlic test. A passing score for this program is 18.
The applicant must provide the following documentation within 45 days of the program start date (note that these are part of the enrolment package requirements):
- Current Vulnerable Sector Search (VSS) Police Check
- Current Early Childhood Education (ECE) Health Record and Immunization Record Form
- Current Standard First Aid and CPR Level “C” certificate (two day in-person training)
- Current Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) training certificate
If English is not a student’s first language, they must provide proof of English competency. English Language Proficiency Requirements are ONE of the following:
- IELTS (International) English Language Testing Services: Minimum score of 5.5 with no subject test score lower than 5.5
- TOEFL IBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language Internet-Based Test): Overall 80 with the minimum in each component: Reading 20; Listening 20; Speaking 20; Writing 20
- CAEL: Overall 60, with no section below 60
- Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP): General with a score of 7 (with no section score below)
- Canadian Language Benchmark Tests: Score of 7 in each strand (not an average of 7)
- Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 95
- Pearson PTE Academic: Minimum score of 46
- Evidence of successful completion of two (2) consecutive years of full-time equivalent post-secondary study in English at a Canadian institution
- Evidence of successful completion of two (2) consecutive years of full-time equivalent post-secondary study in English at an institution outside of Canada
Career Quiz
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