The Early Childhood Education Fast Track (International) program is designed for international students whose first language is not English. Students with international credentials in education or related fields will build on their existing knowledge and experience in order to develop skills and knowledge necessary to work as early childhood educators. Graduates of the Early Childhood Education Fast Track program will be eligible for registration with the provincial College of Early Childhood Educators (RECEs) which will provide employment opportunities in child development centers, kindergarten classrooms, licensed early years programs, and community agencies. This program is enhanced with specific language courses that focus on professional and practice skills for the Canadian workplace. Through interactive classroom learning and integrative field placement experiences, students will develop skills that will enable them to work in collaboration with families, colleagues and communities for the purpose of designing, implementing and evaluating inclusive play-based early learning programs. Building on a thorough understanding of child development and principles of responsive practice, students will work in partnership with college-operated child development centers, kindergarten classrooms, licensed early learning and care programs and community agencies in order to integrate classroom theory and practice in meaningful and engaging ways. Note: The Fast Track version of the Early Childhood Education diploma program is designed to be completed in two plus academic semesters (9 consecutive months) of full-time study.

Program Outcomes

Plan curriculum that is based on a thorough understanding of child development.

Plan and implement individual programs and curriculum to meet the developmental needs of children.

Utilize a variety of observation techniques to enhance work with children, families, and co-workers.

Maintain responsive relationships with individual children and groups of children.

Establish and maintain safe and healthy environments which meet the requirements of current legislation, regulatory bodies, and program policies.

Develop and maintain effective written, oral, nonverbal, and electronic communications with children, families, co-workers, employers, and individuals/agencies.

Apply relevant legislation, policies, procedures, and regulations to early childhood education programs and settings in a changing social context.

Careers

Employment opportunities as a Registered Early Childhood Educator (RECE) are found in licensed child care centers working with infants, toddlers, preschoolers and school age children, as well as home day care, integrated centers, and other social agencies. Graduates meet the academic and field work requirement for registration with the College of Early Childhood Educators.