Early Childhood Assistant (ECA) Diploma Program

Achieve a recognized early childhood education credential
Train for an in-demand field with career growth opportunities in Ontario
Build on-the-job skills through guaranteed practicum placements
Get access to Career Academy Canada and develop career readiness skills for success in the workplace
Tuition Fee Guarantee - we guarantee you will receive a job offer upon graduation or your tuition will be refunded in full

Get Started

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Program Duration

40 Weeks | 1000 hours

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Credential

Diploma

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Location

OICC Toronto campus

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Teaching Method

Hybrid

Get started on your early childhood education career path

About the Early Childhood Assistant (ECA) Program

Get started on your early childhood career path and learn how to make a positive, lasting impact on young children’s lives. Whether you’re fresh out of high school or looking to make a career move, our Early Childhood Assistant (ECA) Diploma program gets you into the workforce quickly while providing you with the valuable knowledge, hands-on skills, and experience employers are looking for.

Through our Early Childhood Assistant program, you will earn a Diploma which qualifies you to work as an ECA or in a related position in Ontario. As this is a NACC-licensed Early Childhood Assistant (ECA) program, students also have the opportunity to earn a NACC digital credential, providing they successfully complete the NACC Final Exam with a minimum passing grade of 65%.

What Will Students Learn?

The Early Childhood Assistant (ECA) Diploma program equips students with the necessary knowledge, hands-on skills, and soft skills required to succeed in this rewarding field. Early childhood is a field where you work directly with children and their families, building important relationships at a formative time in children’s lives. Through our program, you will learn how to help children build resiliency, develop social-emotional learning, and have a direct impact on children’s growth. Beyond the program courses, students participate in practicum placements under the guidance of experts in the field:

675 hours of online synchronous academic theory (32 weeks at 22.5 hours per week)
325 hours of in-person practicum placements (total 2 practicums; 8 weeks at 40 hours per week)

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Develop all knowledge and core competencies ECAs require

Gain valuable insights from instructors that are experts in the field

Build critical skills through guaranteed practicum placements

Earn your CPR-HCP (Health Care Provider) certification

Hybrid Learning Model

The Early Childhood Assistant (ECA) Diploma program follows a Hybrid Learning Model. This allows students to either attend their theory classes in-person or online via Moodle, OICC’s Learning Management System (LMS). The theory classes are offered as synchronized learning, meaning students will be attending live lectures either in-person or online during set days and hours per week. Whether in the classroom or online, students’ learning will be supported by Moodle for all course activities and program resources.

All practicums must be completed in person. This allows students to receive the full experience as an ECA, preparing you for your future profession by practicing and enhancing learned skills within theory classes as well as developing more responsibilities within the field.

At OICC, we understand the benefits of in-person events as it creates a community of learning, allowing you to build meaningful and lifelong connections with your peers, instructors, and campus staff. Some of these events include:

School orientation
Career Academy Canada sessions, events, and related activities
CPR-First Aid Certification

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$43,680

average annual salary in Ontario

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Good

job prospects in Ontario for ECAs in the next 3 years (4 out of 5 stars)

Early Childhood Assistant Career Opportunities

Early Childhood Assistants (ECAs) provide care for infants to school-aged children under the guidance of Early Childhood Educators (ECEs). Together, they lead children in activities to stimulate and develop their intellectual, physical, and emotional growth. ECAs work in childcare centres, daycare centres, kindergarten classrooms, agencies for exceptional children, and other settings.

The Government of Canada Labour Market Information reports that the employment outlook will be good for Early Childhood Assistants (NOC 4214) in Ontario for the 2024 – 2026 period. In fact, the Government of Ontario aims to create 86,000 new child care spaces by 2026.

Data reported on the Government of Ontario Job Bank.

Our Early Childhood Assistant Diploma program is designed to meet the demand for qualified and high-performing ECAs in Ontario by equipping our graduates with the right knowledge and skillsets required to succeed in this rewarding field. We’re here to help you get started on your new career path. Once you graduate from our Early Childhood Assistant Diploma program, popular career path options include:

Early Childhood Assistant (ECA)
Daycare Helper
Child Care Worker Assistant

Preschool Helper
Educator Assistant – Junior Kindergarten

Program Courses

Our Early Childhood Assistant (ECA) program is licensed by NACC (National Association of Career Colleges), which means its content, standards, and guidelines are relevant, up-to-date, and in line with industry requirements. The NACC program was developed and is maintained by a committee of academic and industry experts.

During the ECA program, our students learn from highly qualified instructors that have years of experience in the field as Early Childhood Educators. Through our quality curriculum, students develop a thorough understanding of early childhood theory, techniques, and practices required to succeed in the field.

ECED1010 Foundations of Early Childhood Education

This course will introduce students to the field of Early Child Care and Education. This will be done through

an investigation of the historical roots of early learning and care, and how it has impacted the

contemporary approach to play-based care. Students will gain knowledge as they examine the theoretical

approaches of working with young children and their families in a diverse community. They will use the

knowledge gained to examine the dimensions of high-quality childcare and the key components of current

legislation. Students will explore the early learning framework.

COMM1010 Communications

This is a required course in the Early Childhood Assistant program which offers an introduction to

professional interpersonal communication skills which will be further developed and practiced in

subsequent courses. This course explores topics related to professional communication, reflective practice

and collaboration. As a result of the learning outcomes of this course, students will gain the skills necessary

to establish inclusive relationships within the ECE community.

PSYC1030 Infant and Child Development

Students develop a comprehensive understanding of child development from conception through early

childhood. They take a dynamic perspective on developmental theories that apply to early childhood

education. With a focus on whole child development and education, the course will also examine the three

major domains of young children’s physical, cognitive and socio-emotional development as well as connect

to the developmentally appropriate practice to promote children’s development.

ECED1020 Observation Skills

This course introduces the role of the observer and various approaches to observing development. Ethical

standards for surveillance and documentation are discussed. Writing concise, accurate and objective

observations are introduced along with many observation tools.

ECED1030 Health, Safety and Nutrition

This course covers health, safety & nutritional needs of children and early childhood educators. Students

recognize the importance of safe learning environments to support & promote children’s health & wellbeing. Health promotion, prevention of illness, occupational health and safety are discussed, and

exploration focuses on the impact that educators and childcare settings have on health & nutrition of

children. Students review current legislation in the Child Care and Early Years Act, 2014.

ECED1040 Child, Family and Community

Students study ways of forming positive partnerships between families and educators. Strategies

facilitating family involvement, effective collaboration and communication skills with parents are defined.

Current theories of parent education and issues in child rearing are examined. Students understand

children and families are unique. They explore how to react and have an inclusive, welcoming and anti-bias

environment for different family structures, culture, socio-economic status, religion and ethnicity.

SOCI1000 Introduction to Sociology

This course introduces students to the language and practice of sociological inquiry. It examines basic

concepts, research and theories in sociology, and uses them to explore our everyday life experience and their

relation to the cultural communities and social institutions, in Canadian society. Students develop an

appreciation of key groups and issues such as family, ethnic group, class, community, school, childcare, social

change, women’s issues, social organizations, multiculturalism and immigration.

ECED1050 Play-Based Early Learning Strategies

Students explore the foundations of play-based curriculum specific to young children in early learning and

care environments to foster and facilitate inclusive, holistic learning and development. Students examine

how an early learning curriculum framework guides curriculum planning. Strategies are explored to support

the design of creative arts and sensory experiences. The course addresses planning for play. Knowledge

and skills prepare students for their practicum experiences and professional practice.

ECED1060 Language and Literacy

This course provides theory related to language acquisition in the early childhood years. Students learn the

implementation of teaching techniques within a play-based curriculum. They examine the importance of

early experiences, such as social, cultural and linguistic diversity interactions for facilitating the

development of language and literacy skills. Students apply language development theory to program

planning for young children and establish rich language & literacy practices.

PSYC1000 Introduction to Psychology

This course provides an overview of the theoretical approaches and empirical studies that have contributed

to the nature of psychology. Students will acquire an appreciation for research methodologies and for the

range of influences that guide their own behaviour and experience. Basic concepts and principles of

individual behaviour are examined, particularly those of human development, normal and abnormal

behaviour, social psychology, learning, perception, and psychological measurement.

ECED1070 Guiding Children’s Behaviour

This course will explore current research and approaches in managing and guiding young children’s

behaviour in early childhood programs. Guidance and discipline are considered within a framework of child

development and developmentally appropriate practice. Methods including theoretical approaches,

respecting diversity, understanding vulnerabilities, and analysis of behavioural concerns will be covered.

ECED1080 Creating Inclusive Programs

Students learn how to use a developmental approach when discussing typical and atypical development of

a child and learn to adjust their curriculum accordingly to meet the needs of all children. Students learn to

design environments that deliver an inclusive play-based curriculum that is meaningful and responsive to

the child’s interests. They will discuss the approaches and tools that are needed to provide a high-quality

learning environment, including the use of Individualized Intervention Plans.

ECED1090 Special Needs

This course is designed to develop an understanding of how to adapt the curriculum for young children

with disabilities and special needs to make a difference in the lives of children and their families. The

emphasis is on the role of educators in planning support for both children and families through the latest

legislation and trends and evidence-based practice.

Program Practicum Placements

As part of the ECA program, students are also required to participate in 325 hours of practicum placements in a full-time (40 hours per week) capacity.

These program placements are a fantastic way to not only build real-world skills but also improve your confidence and help you learn how to engage with and help develop young children. At OICC, we have a 100% practicum placement rate, meaning we guarantee our students will get the valuable opportunity to experience working as an ECA. We ensure placements are guaranteed by developing close relationships with various childcare centres.

Practicum I | 125 Hours

Placement Setting: Infant/Toddler classroom

Students will apply the basic principles of practice that they have learned in the classroom. During this placement experience, students will begin to develop a sensitive awareness of each child’s uniqueness by offering time for uninterrupted play, the opportunity to make choices, and the freedom to explore and interact with others. Faculty supervisors, who will visit agencies at pre-arranged times, will observe students in action with the children, clarify student expectations and responsibilities and provide feedback regarding strengths and needs.

Practicum 2 | 200 Hours

Placement Setting: Preschool classroom in licensed daycare centre, early learning centre, or kindergarten classroom

Students will apply the basic principles of practice learned in class. Faculty supervisors visit the agencies, observe students with children, clarify student expectations & responsibilities & provide feedback regarding strengths & needs.

Career Academy Canada

In today’s increasingly competitive job market, it can be overwhelming to navigate the professional world and understand what skills and attributes employers are looking for.

With Oxford International’s Career Academy Canada, we partner with you to:

Identify, develop, and map out your career plan
Build the skills you need to achieve your goals
Expand your industry and employer networks in the field you’re interested in

Tuition Fee Guarantee

Our Commitment to You

We are proud of the quality of our Early Childhood Assistant (ECA) program and are confident that you will receive an offer of employment (part-time or full-time) in the early childhood education field upon graduation.

In fact, we are so confident in our quality assurance that we commit to refunding your tuition fees in full if you graduate from the OICC | Oxford International Career Colleges ECA program, but do not receive any offer of employment (part-time or full-time)!

For more details and terms and conditions, please see the Tuition Fee Guarantee section in the FAQ below.

ECA Program Start Dates

Seasons

Spring

Summer

Fall

Winter

2025

April 7th, 2025
May 5th, 2025

June 9th, 2025
July 7th, 2025
August 5th, 2025

September 8th, 2025

November 3rd, 2025

* The schedule is subject to change

About our OICC Toronto Campus

111 Peter Street #220, Toronto, ON M5V 1X1

Study in the heart of downtown Toronto, walking distance from the CN Tower, Rogers Centre, and Scotia Bank Arena. Our OICC Toronto campus is centrally-located with easy access by public transit and car, with parking available just across the street.

Our bright and modern classrooms, fun student vibe, and highly-qualified instructors foster a vibrant learning environment where you feel inspired to dig into your studies and achieve your career goals!

Learn more about the Toronto campus

Before You Apply to the ECA Program

Scope of work as an ECA

The job of an ECA involves caring for children of all ages and working with families of all ethnic backgrounds. An ECA will be working with children who are very vulnerable and who will need help with their daily living activities such as feeding, mobility, and toileting.

Students taking the ECA program understand that it is a requirement of the program and the work of an ECA to adhere to the Canadian Character of Rights and Freedoms which states that all individuals have the right to equality before and under the law, without discrimination based on race, ethnic origin, colour, religion, gender, age of mental or physical disability.

Program fees

OICC Toronto campus is currently offering a $2,500 CAD Early Childhood Assistant (ECA) Diploma program tuition! Applicable for all students.

Program Fees for Domestic Students

Tuition	Application	Materials	NACC Final Exam	Scholarship	Total
$10,100	$100	$1,200	$100	$2,500	$9,000

Program Fees for International Students

Tuition	Application	Materials	NACC Final Exam	Scholarship	Total
$13,700	$500	$1,200	$100	$2,500	$13,000

Available scholarships

Available Scholarships for Domestic Students

The Government of Nova Scotia is offering free tuition for domestic students* who wish to earn their Continuing Care Assistant Certificate with OICC and work as a CCA in Nova Scotia!

Domestic students who begin the OICC Continuing Care Assistant (CCA) Certificate program throughout 2024-2025 fiscal year (end March 2025) will qualify for free tuition! Students who benefit from the scholarship program will be required to work within the publicy-funded Nova Scotia continuing care sector (long-term care or home care) for two years (4,160 hours) following their graduation. This scholarship covers the entire cost of domestic students’ application fees, tuition, and course materials, but does not include the cost of uniforms ($200). Please contact OICC Halifax campus directly to learn more.

*Domestic students = Canadian citizens and permanent residents.

Available Scholarships for International Students

There are a number of scholarships available for international students. Please contact your agent or Oxford International representative for more information.

Accommodation

Through OICC Toronto campus, you can choose from three accommodation options:

1. Fully-furnished shared apartments with private bedrooms through HOEM student residence.

2. Fully furnished single rooms through the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine (CCNM) student residence.

3. Homestay with a local family.

Visit our Toronto campus accommodation page to learn more.

Tuition Fee Guarantee

We are proud of the quality of our Early Childhood Assistant (ECA) Diploma program and are confident that you will receive an offer of employment (part-time or full-time) in the early childhood education field upon graduation.

We are so confident in our quality assurance that we commit to refunding your tuition fees in full[1] if you graduate from the OICC | Oxford International Career Colleges ECA program, but do not receive any offer of employment (part-time or full-time). To be eligible, you will need to have:

- Maintained the required attendance during the 50-week ECA program including all practicum placements.
- Received passing grades of 70% or above in all areas of the ECA program (written and practical).
- Received satisfactory reports from all practicum placement providers.
- Worked respectfully and professionally with children, their families, practicum placement staff and other professionals in the field from varied ethnic backgrounds.
- Attended and participated in your job and interview skills classes.
- Attended a minimum of 3 interviews with potential employers (minimum 1 interview in the Greater Toronto Area) in addition to interviewing with your practicum placement providers.
- Demonstrated a strong desire to attain the position of an ECA in Ontario.
- Completed all certifications, workshops, and trainings offered through OICC Toronto campus during regular scheduled classroom hours and added mention of these certifications, workshops, and trainings on your resume.
- Attended and participated in Career Academy Canada career readiness workshops, sessions, and activities.
- Successfully passed the NACC final examination (minimum passing grade of 65%) earning your digital certificate and badge.

The Oxford International Career Colleges (OICC) Tuition Fee Guarantee for the Early Childhood Assistant (ECA) Diploma program is applicable to all students. Note that an offer of employment does not guarantee approval for any immigration streams, a work permit, or Permanent Residency.

[1] Program deposits, course materials fees, and any additional fees are not included. Refunds are strictly for tuition fees paid by the student. Students are not refunded any amount provided through scholarships or bursaries.

Admission Requirements for the ECA Program

Secondary School requirements

Applicants must provide proof of Secondary School eduation or equivalent through one of the following:

Canadian Grade 12 Certificate, Diploma, or GED
International Grade 12 or higher
A mature student with a score of 14 or higher on the Wonderlic SLE (or other approved Ministry test)

Note: CAT and CAST are no longer eligible. Mature student status may be granted to applicants who are over the age of 19 years and do not have a high school diploma or GED.

Language requirements

English language proficiency is demonstrated through one of the following:

Academic IELTS 5.5 (no band below 5.5)
Canadian Language Benchmarks Placement Test (CLBPT) minimum score of 7 in each strand
TOEFL IBT 80 with the minimum in each component: Reading 20; Listening 20; Speaking 20; Writing 20
CAEL Overall 60 with no section below 60
Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP) 7 with no section score below 6
Duolingo English Test minimum score of 95
Pearson PTE Academic minimum score of 46
NACC Written Entrance Exam passing score of 60

Alternatively, applicants who are able to demonstrate 2 years of consecutive full-time academic study where the language of instruction was English are exempt from supplying an English proficiency exam for admission into OICC ECA program.

Other requirements

Applicants must also provide:

A clear Vulnerable Sector Disclaimer
A signed Medical Disclaimer

Applying to the ECA Program

I'm ready to apply

In order to apply to our Early Childhood Assistant (ECA) Diploma program, please fill out an online application. Once you submit your application, our Admissions team will be in contact with you within a few days to confirm the next steps.

If you aren’t sure that you can meet the admission requirements for the program, we recommend you connect with your Oxford International representative to learn more. If you do not have the English levels required, OICC Toronto campus offers pre-sessional English programs that provide direct entry to the ECA program.

I applied to the program

Well done! You’ve taken your first step towards a bright new future as an Early Childhood Assistant in Ontario.

Our Admissions team will review your application and any supporting documents. We know you’re eager to hear back from us and we’ll be in contact as soon as possible.

I received my conditional offer letter

Please read your conditional offer letter carefully and keep it safe! You’ll see the list of what you need to do to start your program at OICC Toronto campus. Pleasse remember that it is your responsibility to meet any requirements or conditions outlined in your conditional offer letter.

In the conditional offer letter, we outline the start date we’ve offered you, the fees you need to pay, and any additional conditions you are required to meet before you enroll.

For Domestic Students

You are now able to book your ECA program interview to ensure you are a suitable candidate to begin the program. Your conditional offer letter will outline the steps you need to take to book your interview.

For International Students

You are now required to pay your $500 CAD Application Fee. Please ensure you are prepared to meet all requirements listed in your conditional offer letter before paying the Application Fee as it is non-refundable. Once you pay your Application Fee, you are now able to book your ECA program interview to ensure you are a suitable candidate to begin the program. Your conditional offer letter will outline the steps you need to take to book your interview.

I passed my program interview

Congratulations! You have now met one of the major requirements shown on your conditional offer letter! Only those applicants that demonstrate they are a good fit for the ECA program pass their interview.

For Domestic Students

You will now be issued your official offer of admission and be permitted to enroll as a student in the OICC ECA program!

For International Students

You are now required to pay your tuition deposit and will be issued your Letter of Acceptance (LoA) and Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL). These are required documents in order to apply for your visas.

Apply for the Study Permit visa within 10 weeks of receiving the LoA and PAL. You also need to apply for the Co-op visa at this time.

I received my study and co-op work permits

For International Students:

Congratulations! You are now ready to begin your journey to becoming an ECA.

Read your documents carefully because they will say when you are able to travel. Do not travel before this date because you may be turned away at the border and this could impact your ability to enter Canada later on. Do not book flights or make travel arrangements until you have received confirmation from OICC that you have been given a seat in the program. We will tell you if there is still space for the program start date you have selected.

It is important that you arrive in time for the start of your program. With such an intensive program, we do not allow students to start late. Late starters would miss valuable learning and experiences. If you think you will not be in Canada in time for your program start date, please notify OICC Toronto campus immediately.