Basic ECE Program

The Delta Continuing Education (DCE) Early Childhood Education (ECE) program is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to work with young children (ages 3-5 years)* and their families in licensed childcare settings. Students take courses and practicum placements designed to integrate theoretical learning and practical experience in becoming an Early Childhood Educator. The DCE ECE program is completed in two years part time, taking two courses per term (dependent on enrolment – minimum of 15 participants required).

The first years of a child’s education are among the most important; during this time educators can have a profound impact on a child’s success in development. There is an increasing demand for qualified Early Childhood Educators to work with young children in licensed childcare facilities. Graduates of the program may find employment opportunities in a variety of Early Learning programs such as childcare/daycare, pre-schools, family childcare/daycare, Strong Start, Supported Child Care Consultants and/or CCRR (childcare resource and referral programs).

Approximately 90% of DCE ECE students will find employment prior to graduating from the program. 

*Delta Continuing Education also offers the Post Basic ECE program, which focuses on working with infants and toddlers, and children with special needs. Click here for more information on the Post Basic ECE Program. 

If you have any questions, please contact:

Lisa Nicholson, ECE Program Coordinator
Phone: 604 952 2815 – please leave a message on the voicemail
Email: lnicholson@deltaschools.ca or ececoordinator@deltaschools.ca
Please allow a minimum of 48 hours for a response.

Delta Continuing Education Office Location:
4750 57 Street, Delta, B.C., V4K 3C9
Tel: 604 940 5550
Fax: 604 940 5520

Course Schedule – Two Years Part Time

For detailed descriptions of each course, click here.

Year 1 – Term I – September to December:  12-week term

For every registered course, students must attend one night per week plus a minimum of one Saturday
 Writing Workshop (Saturday PLUS 1 evening)

Observation Workshop (Saturday)

ECE 106 – Interpersonal Skills

ECE 100 – Child Growth and Development I and ECE 110 Ia – Observation Assignment

ECE 101 – Foundations of ECE and ECE 110 Ib – Observation Assignment
YEAR I – Term II – January to March: 10-week term

For every registered course, students must attend one night per week plus a minimum of two Saturdays
ECE 102 – Child Growth and Development II and ECE 111 IIa Observation Assignment

ECE 105 – Guiding and Caring and ECE 112 IIIb Observation Assignment

ECE 120 – Block Practicum I (*)
YEAR I Term III – April to June: 12-week term

For every registered course, students must attend one night per week PLUS a minimum of one Saturday
ECE 103 – The Learning Child and ECE 111 IIb Observation Assignment

ECE 104 – Child Growth and Development III and ECE 112 IIIa Observation Assignment

NO CLASSES OFFERED JULY OR AUGUST.

(*) Students may request to complete ECE 120 Block Practicum I in the summer;

Please note, Block Practicum I must be completed prior to taking any year II classes.
YEAR 2 Term I – September to December:  12-week term

For every registered course, students must attend one night per week, plus a minimum of one Saturday
Reflective Writing Workshop (Saturday)

ECE 200 – Guiding and Caring II and ECE 210 IVa Observation Assignment

ECE 201 – Language and Literature and ECE 210 IVb Observation Assignment

ECE 220 – Block Practicum II (**)
YEAR 2 – Term II – January to March – 10-week term

For every registered course, students must attend one night per week plus a minimum of two Saturdays
ECE 202 – Creative Activities: Art & Music and ECE 211 Va Observation Assignment

ECE 203 – Science, Math and Social Studies and ECE 211 Vb Observation Assignment

YEAR 2 – Term III – April to June – 12-week term

For every registered course, students must attend one night per week plus a minimum of one Saturday
ECE 204 – Health Safety and Nutrition and ECE 212 VIa Observation Assignment

ECE 205 – Family, School and Community Relations and ECE 212 VIb Observation Assignment

ECE 250 – Block Practicum III(**)
NO CLASSES OFFERED JULY OR AUGUST.

(**) Year II students may complete ECE 220 Block Practicum II and/or ECE 250 Block Practicum III in the summer.

Please note: Block Practicums and Observation assignments require daytime sessions.

 

Class Locations

Delta’s ECE program offers in-person training.  In-class sessions will be held at Delta Community College, 11590-83 Ave, Delta or at North Delta Senior Secondary, 11447 – 82 Ave, Delta.

Throughout the terms, there may be times when some sessions may be at different locations or offered via Zoom in a synchronous manner (i.e.., guest speakers/inclement weather). Students are given this information on the first night of classes. Students must have home access to a computer or device capable of videoconferencing and to reliable, high-speed internet.

Class Times

Students must attend two nights per week and a minimum of two Saturday classes per term.  Evening classes run from 6:30pm to 9:30pm.  Saturday classes run from 9am to 4pm.  A class that falls on a statutory holiday and/or a school break closure will be rebooked for a different evening.

Students are strongly urged to avoid plans of extended absences or holidays during scheduled class time. The attendance policy for the ECE program stipulates that students missing more than two sessions (Saturday class counts as two sessions) will result in an automatic grade of no credit.

Fees

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are paid on a term-to-term basis; payment for tuition is due upon registration deadline.

DescriptionFee
Writing Workshops (Two Saturday sessions throughout two years - $150 each)$300
Observation Workshop (One Saturday session)$150
ECE 106 Interpersonal Skills$250
ECE 100 Child Growth and Development I and ECE 110 Ia Child Growth and Development Observation$500
ECE 101 Foundations of ECE and ECE 110 Ib Foundations of ECE Observation$500
ECE 102 Child Growth and Development II and ECE 111 IIa Child Growth and Development II Observation$500
ECE 103 The Learning Child and ECE 111 IIb The Learning Child Observation$500
ECE 104 Child Growth and Development III and ECE 112 IIIa Child Growth and Development III Observation$500
ECE 105 Guiding and Caring and ECE 112 IIIb Guiding and Caring Observation$500
ECE 200 Guiding and Caring II and ECE 210 IVa Guiding and Caring Observation$500
ECE 201 Language and Literature and ECE 201 IVb Language and Literature Observation$500
ECE 202 Creative Activities: Art & Music and ECE 211 Va Creative Activities Observation$500
ECE 203 Science, Math and Social Studies and ECE 211Vb Science, Math and Social Studies Observation$500
ECE 204 Health, Safety and Nutrition and ECE 212 VIa Health, Safety and Nutrition Observation$500
ECE 205 Family, School and Community Relations and ECE 212 VIb Family, School and Community Relations Observation$500
ECE 120 Block Practicum I$475
ECE 220 Block Practicum II$475
ECE 250 Block Practicum III$475
Total Tuition Fees$8,125*

(*) Fees are subject to change

Additional Fees

DescriptionFee*
Deposit
Those accepted into the program will be required to submit a deposit of $500 within one month of receiving an acceptance letter. This fee will be put towards their first course taken at DCE. This deposit is non-refundable, so if a student does not register with DEC ECE, the deposit will not be returned.		$500
Supply Fee (year I, year II - $50 each year)$100
Textbooks and Handouts $500 approx.
Conferences and Workshops
As part of the course curriculum, some instructors will ask students to attend designated workshops/conferences (Children: Heart of the Matter; Advocacy Forum.) Conference information, including date, registration information and costs are provided to the student with course registration. Conference fees are the responsibility of the student. 		$300 approx.
Supplies
Students will require school supplies (pens, paper, binders, etc.); and materials to make ECE learning activities and projects (poster board, paints, etc.) for class assignments/practicum.		$300 approx.
Criminal Record Check (CRC)
Students are required to have a CRC Schedule B Authorization. This is valid for five years from the date of application. Applications must be faxed directly to the Ministry of Public Safety/Solicitor General. Do not apply at your local police department/RCMP detachment. 		$28
Photo ID
All students required a valid Delta Continuing Education photo ID. A lost or damaged Photo ID is replaced at the expense of the student		$25
Transcripts
Upon successful completion of the full program, students will receive one official sealed transcript. This transcript will be mailed within 2-3 weeks of request. Should a student required additional transcripts, or a transcript prior to the completion of the full program, the fee is $10 per transcript. 		$10

(*) Fees are subject to change. There may be additional fees throughout the year of schooling which are not listed. 

Why Choose Delta's ECE Program?
  • Delta Continuing Education has been teaching Early Childhood Education (ECE) since 1969.
  • Delta Continuing Education is approved by the Early Childhood Registry as an educational training institution and fulfills all provincial requirements for certification in the ECE sector.
  • DCE ECE programs are part time programs (evenings and Saturdays).
  • DCE ECE programs provide quality instruction, based on current research and practice and grounded in the BC Early Learning Framework: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/education/early-learning/teach/earlylearning/early_learning_framework.pdf
  • DCE ECE programs have affordable fees that are paid on a term by term basis. Also, students are eligible to apply to the ECE Education Support Fund for Bursary funds through ECEBC (ecebc.ca/bursaries-grants/ece-education-support-fund)

Our Pedagogical Vision

Our program recognizes the important connections between children, families, educators, and society. We aim to create a learning environment where students feel safe, valued, and understood, and where curiosity, creativity, and diverse perspectives are encouraged. We believe strong, respectful relationships are at the heart of learning and professional growth.

Our teaching approach includes current best practices:

Following the BC Early Learning Framework, we are committed to “respectfully living and learning together.” This framework “supports the creation of rich, joyful early childhood spaces where children, adults, ideas and materials come together, and where knowledge is constructed about learning and living in ways that are local, inclusive ethical and democratic” (BC Early Learning Framework, p.11).

Our Mission Statement

The DCE ECE Program prepares students to become skilled and caring Early Childhood Educators. We support student well-being while providing a high-quality, meaningful, and comprehensive education that helps students make positive contributions to their communities.

Our Values

What kind of world do you want to live in?
What kind of people do we want to be?
– Ann Pelo

These two questions are reflected in our core values, which guide our decisions, actions, and relationships with students, instructors and the community:

Compassion – Resilience – Responsibility – Integrity – Creativity – Diversity

Frequently Asked Questions

What will I learn on the Basic ECE Program?

You will learn how to support children’s growth and development, plan for safe, play-based experiences, nurture healthy, inclusive environments, collaborate with families and communities and gain real-world practicum experience.

What is the difference between the Basic and Post Basic Program?

The Basic ECE program, also known as the ECE Certificate or Basic Certificate, provides the foundational training required to become an Early Childhood Educator. The total program hours are 1032; this includes designated practicum and observation hours, and observation and writing workshops. Upon completion of the program, students are eligible to apply for their ECE Certificate to the BC ECE Registry.

The Post Basic ECE program, also known as Post Basic ECE, refers to the specialized training offered after completing the Basic ECE Program. Students can complete the Infant/Toddler or Special Needs program or both. Each specialization takes 450 hours, including specialized practicums, and can be completed as a one-year part-time program.

Will I have opportunities to work with children?

Yes, students will have opportunities to observe children and complete practicums in licensed child care programs. Observation is a foundational practice in the ECE program, supporting students in developing the skills to notice, record and interpret children’s everyday experiences. Practicums are structured, hands-on learning experiences where students apply what they have learned in coursework within a real early learning setting. It provides opportunities to work directly with children, educators, and families, allowing students to develop practical skills in observation, curriculum planning, relationship building and responsive caregiving. The practicum is an essential bridge between theory and practice. Each student in the Basic ECE program will have three practicums.

Is it possible to take the course online?

No, Delta’s ECE program is an in-person training program. The heart of our work as ECE professionals is grounded in relationships with children and families and is always done in person. This gives students hands on learning and real-time feedback from instructors.

Is there any financial assistance available?

Since September 2018, the Early Childhood Educators of BC (ECEBC), in partnership with the Province of BC, enhanced and expanded the ECE Bursary Program, now known as the ECE Education Support Fund (ECE ESF). As of 2019, the fund was fully expended and in December 2019 an additional $4 million from the Canada-BC Early Learning and Child Care Agreement was invested to help more educators obtain/upgrade their ECE Certificate.

These funding streams are designed to increase the number of students entering, re-establishing and graduating from recognized ECE post-secondary programs.  DCE ECE is one of those recognized ECE post-secondary programs, which means those accepted into the DCE ECE program are eligible to apply for this funding.

For further information and application deadlines please refer to the ECEBC website at: www.ecebc.ca/bursaries-grants/ece-education-support-fund and/or contact ECEBC directly via email: bursary@ecebc.ca.

Does my previous education/training exempt me from some courses? 

Applicants who feel their prior education/training, outside of BC and/or internationally, may exempt them from some or all courses can request an assessment of their credentials directly from the ECE Registry of BC.  Delta Continuing Education does not assess previous education/training but will review assessments from the ECE Registry of BC.  Please note: A review of these assessments does not guarantee acceptance into the program nor does it guarantee transfer equivalency credits. Please contact, the ECE Registry of BC: www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/education-training/early-learning/teach/training-and-professional-development/become-an-early-childhood-educator/pathways

Students who wish to have their international training assessed, should contact ICES – International Credential Evaluation Services, prior to contacting the ECE Registry of BC.  Further information can be obtained at: www.bcit.ca/ices

Are courses with a different educational institution transferable?

Courses taken from any recognized ECE educational institution within BC may be accepted for transfer equivalency credit. For a complete list of recognized educational institutions please go to: www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/education-training/early-learning/teach/training-and-professional-development/become-an-early-childhood-educator/recognized-ece-institutions

Students wanting their courses reviewed must first apply to the program; submit an official transcript and course outlines for all ECE courses they have successfully completed. If the student is accepted into the ECE program, DCE will then evaluate courses for possible transferability.

Only a maximum 25% of the ECE program would be transferable. Students who have been accepted into the program and have taken more than 25% of courses elsewhere, would submit official transcripts from both educational institutions to the ECE Registry for assessment. Education taken more than five years ago is not considered current and therefore will not be granted transfer equivalency credit into the DCE ECE program as DCE ECE believes there would be a gap in knowledge on current practices in the ECE field.

Can I apply to the ECE program if I am an international student?

International students can apply to the program if they are legally eligible to be in Canada. Please note: Delta Continuing Education is not a designated post-secondary school in Canada. We are certified by Employment and Social Development Canada. Tuition fees and eligible months of part-time study can be used for income tax deductions. Although we are recognized as an education institution program within B.C. by the ECE Registry, students in the program are not eligible for B.C and Canadian student loans.

How do I register for courses?

Only students accepted in the program will be eligible to register for courses. Students will receive registration information via email with details on course registration and textbook ordering.

What is your refund/withdrawal/cancellation policy?

Refunds, minus a $20 processing fee, will only be issued to students who withdraw before the start of the second class. Partial refunds will be issued if students have requested a withdrawal before the start of the third class. No refunds will be issued after the start of the third class. Full refunds are only issued for courses cancelled by Delta Continuing Education. There are no refunds for textbooks ordered. If you have registered for a class and must withdraw, please contact the ECE Coodinator first at ececoordinator@deltaschools.ca, and then call the Delta Continuing Education Office at 604 940 5550.

Does Delta Continuing Education help with employment or job placement?

Students are in high demand. We offer practicum placements and observations with licensed childcare centres; approximately 90% of students find work prior to finishing their training programs.

How do I get my ECE Certificate?

A certificate is required to work in a licensed childcare program in BC. After you have successfully completed the required courses, including three (3) practicums, you will be granted a certificate of completion and an official transcript from Delta Continuing Education.  You will then be eligible to apply for your Early Childhood Education certificate from the Early Childhood Registry of BC:

Website:

Phone – Victoria:

Phone – Toll – Free:

Fax:

 Become an Early Childhood Educator – Province of British Columbia (gov.bc.ca)

1-250-356-6501

1-888-338-6622

1-250-952-06:4565
Email: ECERegistry@gov.bc.ca
Mail: Early Childhood Educator (ECE) Registry
Child Care Programs and Services Division
Ministry of Education and Child Care
P.O Box 9961 Stn. Prov. Govt., Victoria, B.C.  V8W 9R4

It is the responsibility of each educator to maintain their certification with the Early Childhood Educator (ECE) Registry. Renewal is required every five years for each certificate an educator holds. For complete details on renewal of registration, refer to the ECE Registry website.

How can I get more information?

Please contact the ECE Coordinator at ececoordinator@deltaschools.ca. Information sessions on the program are held regularly. To register for an upcoming information session, please visit: https://cimsweb.deltasd.bc.ca/publicconnect/deevents.aspx

Application Process and Checklist

 

Step 1 Attend a free Information Session (To register for an upcoming information session, please click here) and successfully write an English assessment test

All applicants must write the Canadian Adult Achievement Test (CAAT) to assess reading comprehension and writing levels. The testing takes approximately 1.5 hours.  Applicants must achieve a minimum of 70% on the comprehension component and a pass on the written component.

The English Assessment test will be scheduled to be written in-person at the DCE office in Ladner, (4750 57 St, Delta BC V4K3C9), during office hours (8:30am to 4pm).  Applicants will be notified of their test results via email.

Students who can provide proof of completing English 12 or Communications 12 with a C+ or higher from a BC secondary school may be waived from writing the English assessment test. DCE ECE does not accept test results from other institutions.

Please note: The DCE ECE program has the right to remove any student whose progress in the program is hindered by inadequate English comprehension and writing skills.
Step 2

 

 Submit application documents no later than 12 noon on May 31

Student documentation becomes the property of Delta Continuing Education. Please photocopy all of your documentation before submitting any documentation. Photocopying is the responsibility of the applicant not Delta Continuing Education.    

Ensure you provide the following:

  • Completed Basic ECE Application Form
  • Two (2) pieces of ID – photocopies must be legible
  • Completed Written Interview
  • Completed Student Medical/Emergency Contact Information
  • Three (3) letters of reference
  • Official transcript for any previously taken ECE courses of a copy of any Certificates to Practice (i.e. ECEA Certificate) if applicable
  • Completed Volunteer/Work Experience Form – A Criminal Record Authorization letter is required for students to complete these volunteer hours. Applicants will have until December 31 to complete and submit this documentation.
  • Pre-Training Medical Exam – Your family physician must complete, sign and date this form. There may be a cost associated with this which is the responsibility of the student. Applicants will have until December 31 to submit their medical form.
  • Consent to a Criminal Record Check Application Form – this will be emailed to students once they are accepted on the program.

Mail the application by May 31 to:

Delta Continuing Education
4750-57th Street, Delta B.C, V4K 3C9
Attention:  Lisa Nicholson, ECE Coordinator
Step 3 Acceptance

Applicants are evaluated on their initial application package and, where applicable, through additional written submissions and personal interviews. The following criteria are considered:

·        Completeness of the application

·        Strength of written interview, including clarity and writing skills

·        Demonstrated understanding of the role of an ECE Educator

·        Demonstrated proficiency with English (written, comprehension and spoken) as evidenced by successful completion of the English assessment test

·        Readiness for the program’s demanding schedule and practicum placements

·        Relevant work and/or volunteer experience

·        Related prior education and other applicable academic qualifications

Strong written and spoken English skills are essential. ECE students engage in a rigorous adult learning environment that introduces a range of theoretical, educational, and physiological concepts. Meeting program competencies require success in written assignments, oral presentations, and interpersonal communication.

Once documentation has been reviewed, successful applicants will receive an acceptance letter via email.
Please note: 

Acceptance to Delta Continuing Education Basic ECE program is dependent upon satisfactory completion of all documentation.

DCE ECE does not require Immunization records to be submitted as part of the application process. However, many mentor centres will require this. As Practicums are a requirement of program/certificate completion, students who are accepted to the DCE ECE Program must self-disclose their vaccination status to ensure DCE ECE can identify appropriate practicum placements. Students are required to meet and follow the policies of mentor centres/licensed childcare programs and licensing regulations. 
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