NEC acknowledges the ancestral and unceded territory of the Coast Salish Peoples, including the host Nations xʷməθkwəy̓əm (Musqueam), Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish), and səl̓ílwətaʔ/selilwitulh (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations.
Program Description
In this 8-month certificate program, students prepare for a specialization in early childhood education and care, with a focus on working with children with exceptionalities. In this dual diploma program, students will gain foundational knowledge about the field of early childhood education (ECE) in a program that is infused and centres Indigenous knowledge, worldview and practices. Students will acquire the necessary skills and competencies for successful and multidirectional career paths in ECE. Course content includes Indigenous approaches to childrearing and children with exceptionalities by weaving in the BC Early Learning Framework (ELF) and the Indigenous Early Learning and Child Care Framework (IELLC) into practice, including thinking critically with interdisciplinary perspectives; and how to support and promote Indigenous children’s identity development and connections with their Nation’s cultural practices and traditions.
Program Highlights
- Duration: 32 weeks
- Delivery Method: On-campus
- Intakes:
– Fall 2025 - Schedule: This program is full-time, Monday to Friday 09:00 am – 12:00 pm & 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm
career opportunities
After graduating from this program, students apply to the ECE Registry for their five-year ITE certificates. Once this certification is received, students can work independently or as the primary educator in licensed, supportive early learning settings for children from birth to 5 years of age. Once students have completed 500 hours of either paid or volunteer work at a centre, students can then apply for their five-year license to practice. Students can choose to pursue further certification with NEC’s IECE Diploma program, where they gain their Special Needs Educator (SNE) certification.
Students who complete the IECE Certificate program can transfer into the University of British Columbia’s (UBC) Indigenous Teacher Education Program (NITEP). Students transfer into the second year of their Bachelor of Education degree. Students from other institutions and ECE certification programs are welcome to transfer to NEC to complete their coursework, including practicum.
Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this program, the successful student will have reliably demonstrated the ability to:
1. Communicate effectively and professionally, building relationships with children and other Indigenous and non-Indigenous educators, mentors, and staff
2. Think critically about the ongoing history of settler-colonialism in ECE, and learn how to decolonize the practice of caring for and working with children
3. Support and plan for children’s health, safety, and nutritional needs, including snack and meal planning
We are committed to providing a welcoming and culturally safe environment where students can thrive on their educational journey.
Authentic Indigenous Academic Programs and Curriculum
Prevention of Genocide - Critical and Cultural Thought Processes
Holistic Wrap Around Supports
COURSE OFFERINGS
| Infancy Specialty | |
| ECE 282 | Advanced Child Growth & Development |
| ECE 294 | Indegenious Practice with Infants and Toddlers |
| ECE 269 | Administration of Childcare Program |
| ECE 289 | Responsive & Inclusive Practice |
| ECE 295 | Infant Toddler Practicum |
| ECE 227 | Working with Families |
| ECE 280 | Indigenous Health Care |
| Special Needs Specialty | |
| ECE 282 | Advanced Child Growth & Development |
| ECE 283 | Foundation of Working w/Exceptional child |
| ECE 287 | Practices in Supported Child Care |
| ECE 227 | Working with Families |
| ECE 269 | Administration of Childcare Program |
| ECE 280 | Indigenous Health Care |
| ECE 289 | Responsive & Inclusive Practice |
| ECE 285 | Inclusive Practicum & Seminar |
Admission Requirements
Highschool Admission
- Successful completion of Basic Certificate in ECE from NEC or another B.C. post-secondary institution a minimum of “C” grade average (GPA 2.0)
- 2 letters of reference
- Criminal Records Check
- TB Test
- Doctor’s note of good health
tuition and fees
| Tuition | $5,580 |
| Application | $75 |
| Administration | $75 |
| Books and supplies | $750 |
| Others(Lab) | $200 |
This program has been approved by the Private Training Institutions Regulatory Unit (PTIRU)of the Ministry of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills. https://www.privatetraininginstitutions.gov.bc.ca/
Longhouse Values
These original laws are embedded in every aspect of our House. They invite cultural identity and selfdetermination of Indigenous Peoples, which empowers learners to advance their unique personal and educational goals.
- Diversity
- Respect
- Understanding
- Gratitude
- Accountability