NACC Early Childhood Assistant Program 2021
Approved under the Ontario Career Colleges Act, 2005
Course Overview
The NACC Early Childhood Assistant program prepares students for a rewarding career working with young children in licensed childcare centres, early learning centres, and junior classrooms. This comprehensive diploma program combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on practical experience, focusing on child development, play-based learning, health and safety and creating inclusive environments for children from infancy through early childhood.
Students will develop the skills necessary to support Early Childhood Educators in fostering children’s physical, cognitive, social and emotional development while building positive relationships with children, families, and colleagues.
Is this program right for you?
This program is ideal for compassionate individuals who are passionate about supporting young children’s growth and development in their early years. If you enjoy working with children, value creating inclusive and nurturing environments, and want a hands-on career where you can make a meaningful different in children and their families lives, this program will provide you with the essential skills and practical experience needed to succeed as an Early Childhood Assistant. Whether you’re starting a new career path or looking to formalize your experience working with children, this comprehensive program offers the training, credentials and real-world practicum experience to launch your career in the rewarding field of early childhood education.
What You'll learn
In this program, you will gain comprehensive knowledge of child development from infancy through early childhood, learning how to support children’s physical, cognitive, social, and emotional growth through play-based learning and inclusive practices. You will develop essential skills in observation and documentation, behavioural guidance, health and safety protocols, curriculum planning, and building positive relationships with children, families, and colleagues. Through 675 hours of classroom instruction and 325 hours of hands-on practicum experience in real childcare settings, you will learn to create safe, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate environments where all children can thrive.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Early Childhood Assistant Program are qualified to work as an Early Childhood Assistant, supporting the care and education of young children in various licensed childcare and early learning settings.
Potential Job Titles
- Early Childhood Assistant
- Childcare Assistant
- Preschool Assistant
- Daycare Assistant
- Early Learning Program Assistant
- Nursery School Assistant
- Child Development Assistant
- Before and After School Program Assistant
- Infant/Toddler Care Assistant
Potential Workplace Settings
- Licensed Childcare Centres
- Early Learning Centres
- Kindergarten Classrooms
- Preschool Programs
- Infant and Toddler Care Programs
- Nursery Schools
- Daycare Facilities
- Montessori Schools
- Play-Based Learning Programs
Program Details
Program Type:
Certificate Course
Program Duration:
35 Weeks (33 weeks instruction + 2 weeks breaks)
Total Instruction Hours:
1000 Hours
Delivery Format:
Hybrid – A mix of In-person and Online
Language of Instruction:
English
Why Choose Crossroads?
- Flexible online learning
- Comprehensive curriculum
- Small classes with personalized support
- Experienced instructors
- Fast-track to employment
- Accessible admission
CONTACT US FOR MORE INFO
Admission Requirements
To be admitted into the Education Assistant program, you must meet ONE of the following requirements:
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma (Grade 12) or equivalent.
- Be 18 years of age or older on or before the program begins AND pass the Wonderlic Scholastic Level Exam with a minimum score of 18 (The exam can be administered at one of our campus locations.
- Medical Clearance: Signed Medical disclaimer and completion of a Medical Report including proof of immunizations.
- Police Clearance: Provide a clean criminal record report and vulnerable sector check (Police Record Check Level 3).
- Vulnerable Sector Disclaimer: Sign a disclaimer acknowledging the program’s work with vulnerable sectors
- English Proficiency: ENG4C or ENG4U with transcript. If English is not your first language you will be required to provide proof of competency.
Frequently asked questions
Yes! Hands-on practicum experience is a significant component of this program. You will complete 325 hours of practicum placement in real licensed childcare settings.
The practicum is divided into two placements
Practicum I – 125 Hours
- Completed in an infant and/or toddler department of a licensed childcare centre or early learning centre.
- Provides experience working with children aged 0-2 years.
Practicum II – 200 Hours
- Completed in a preschool department of a licensed childcare centre or early learning centre.
- Provides experience working with children aged 2-6 years.
During your practicum you’ll work under the guidance and supervision of a qualified Early Childhood Educator, applying the knowledge and skills learned in your classroom courses. The college arranges your placement sites and an instructor will visit you during each practicum to provide support and evaluate your progress.
NACC stands for National Association of Career Colleges. This program uses NACC-approved curriculum, ensuring industry-relevant, high-quality education. You’ll write the NACC Final Comprehensive Theory Examination as part of your graduation requirements.
Students must maintain a 70% average for each subject to pass. Each subject requires a minimum final mark of 70% to successfully complete the program.
Students who fail a subject must repeat it at an additional cost. You may need to wait until the subject is offered again on the schedule. Students have up to 3 months from the original program end date to pass all academic and financial requirements.
You will need a computer with a reliable internet connection, webcam and microphone. The program uses Microsoft Office applications (Word, Outlook) and Windows 10.
We offer multiple start dates throughout the year. Contact our admissions team at (613) 742-7499 extension 206 to learn about upcoming classes and to secure your spot. Classes fill quickly, so we strongly recommend applying early!
This program qualifies you as an Early Childhood Assistant. To become a registered ECE in Ontario, you would need to complete an ECE diploma program and register with the College of Early Childhood Educators. However, this program provides an excellent foundation and can be a stepping stone toward further education.
Funding and financial assistance may be available for those individuals who qualify. Please click here to see the detailed information on financial aid.