Skills Upgrading for Non-RECEs (yet!)

You are supplying a valuable service to children, families and your community.

Now, let’s upgrade your skills to further develop your career and help you earn more money.

Ontario has excellent post-secondary schools offering flexible ECE training.

Program Types

• Full-Time In-Person: Traditional classroom setting for students who prefer face-to-face interaction and a structured learning environment.
• Hybrid (Online and In-Person): A flexible option combining both online and in-person classes, offering the best of both worlds for those balancing other commitments.
• Fast Track: An accelerated program designed for students who want to complete their education and enter the workforce quickly.
• Fully Online (Coming Fall 2025!): A convenient option for students who need the flexibility to study from anywhere.
• Micro-Credential Courses:
  • Supervision and Administration for Early Childhood Educators: Designed to enhance leadership and administrative skills, this micro-credential course is ideal for those looking to take on supervisory roles within early childhood settings.

Program Types:

• Full-Time In-Person: Ideal for students who thrive in a classroom environment and prefer direct interaction with faculty and peers.
• Online: Perfect for those who need flexibility in their schedule, allowing for remote learning without compromising on the quality of education.
• Fast Track: An accelerated program tailored for students eager to fast-track their studies and start their careers sooner.
• Micro-Credential Courses:
  • Leadership in Early Childhood: This micro-credential course is focused on developing leadership skills for aspiring managers and directors in early childhood education settings.

Program Types:

• Full-Time In-Person: A comprehensive program designed for those who prefer a traditional classroom setting with hands-on learning experiences.
• Fast Track: An accelerated pathway for students who wish to complete their studies more quickly and enter the field of early childhood education sooner.

Financial support may be available for the ECE Qualifications Upgrade Program (QUP) while you are working in an Early Years setting.

You are eligible if:

• You have 6 months of employment in an eligible childcare setting*
• You are enrolled in a recognized community college in Ontario and working towards an ECE diploma
• You live and./or work in Ontario

Employment in Eligible Childcare settings include:

• EarlyON Centres
• Licensed child care agencies
• Unlicensed child care agencies
• Child and family programs
• Public or private schools

Financial support available to you includes:

• 100% of your tuition fees
• Training Allowance from $500 to up to $5,000
• PLAR Fee reimbursement
• First Aid/CPR reimbursement
• College of ECE fee reimbursement
• Travel Grant for daily commute expenses and for those who are required to live temporarily away from home to pursue studies.