COURSE CURRICULUM

The Early Childhood Education diploma program is a two-year comprehensive curriculum designed to equip students with the knowledge and hands-on experience needed to support the development and well-being of young children. In Year 1, Term 1, students begin with foundational courses such as Communication Strategies, Academic Writing, Guiding 1, Introduction to Play, Environments and Curriculum, and Child Development 1, totaling 15 credit hours. These courses introduce core concepts in communication, developmental theory, and play-based learning. In Term 2, students explore the profession more deeply through courses like Explore the Early Childhood Education Profession, Introduction to the Science of Early Child Development, Health and Well Being, Curriculum Planning 1, and Guiding 2, continuing to build their skills in curriculum design and child guidance. Term 3 includes the first practicum (Practicum 1), a 10-credit hour placement providing immersive experience in childcare settings where students apply their learning in real-world environments. Year 2 begins with Term 4, where students study Diversity and Inclusion, Child Development 2, Partnerships in Early Childhood Education, Curriculum Planning 2, and Guiding 3, focusing on creating inclusive, collaborative, and developmentally appropriate learning experiences. Term 5 offers courses in Mentorship, Advocacy and Community, Professional Behaviour in Early Childhood Education, Topics in Child Development, Reflecting on Play-Based Curriculum, and A Context for Practice With Indigenous Peoples, emphasizing professional development and ethical practice. In the final Term 6, students complete Practicum 2, a 6-credit hands-on placement where they consolidate their learning and demonstrate their readiness to enter the field. Across all terms, the program integrates theory and practice, with a strong focus on child-centered, play-based learning approaches, communication with families, cultural responsiveness, and professionalism. Graduates are prepared to plan and implement developmentally appropriate learning experiences that foster children's intellectual, emotional, social, and physical growth.