Early Childcare Assistant Diploma

This diploma program is designed to prepare students for working in the early childcare and education field. Its objective is to provide the students/childcare workers with valuable knowledge, skills and experience to pursue employment as Assistants in day care or early learning centres. During the program, participants will be exposed to the responsibilities of an early childcare assistant and opportunities to perform those responsibilities. The program also covers the foundational skills needed for those seeking to move into an Early Childhood Educator program.

Program Notes
Tuition fees include student manuals and all other course materials. Financial assistance may be available for those who qualify. Graduation Requirements: Achieve a minimum pass mark for each individual modules of 70%; successfully complete all practicum placement requirements; Maintain current Standard First Aid and Level C CPR certification; Pass the ECA Final Comprehensive Theory Examination administered by NACC

Career Opportunities
This program provides the student with a range of skills and knowledge required to assist in day care or early learning centres. Employment opportunities for Early Childcare Assistant program graduates reside in public and private day care/childcare or early learning centres.

Admission Requirement
Grade 12 or equivalent or mature student status Must pass a literacy test A mathematical aptitude test is recommended for all potential students Medical Certificate (Immunization Form) is required indicating that the student is fit to undertake the program and has up- to-date immunizations.
Students must complete Standard First Aid and Level C CPR prior to practicum placement Police Check (Clearance) of Criminal Record ? Must be produced within 30 days of starting the program.
Two different references related to employment or volunteer work completed in the early childcare field

Core Modules
Introduction to Early Child Care and Education
Role and Responsibilities
Child, Family and Community
Introduction to Child Development
Introduction to Prenatal and Infant Development
Introduction to Toddler Development
Health and Safety
Written Communication
Observation Skills
Practicum 1: Infant and Toddler, Introduction to Preschool Development, Guiding Children, Curriculum Planning, Nutrition
Practicum 2: Preschool
Personal Attributes Required
To be successful as an Early Childcare Assistant, individuals must possess the ability to:

Be professional, punctual, dependable and trustworthy; a good team player
Have good oral communication skills, including listening skills
Be friendly, enthusiastic and energetic
Use good observation and supervision skills
Be respectful, courteous, patient and caring
Show interest in and appreciation for children
Demonstrate good time management and organizational skills
Model good behaviour and attitude
Follow confidentiality guidelines
Duties and Responsibilities
Assist and participate in the day to day operations of a childcare centre or early learning centre
Help to provide a nurturing, caring environment in which young children can thrive
Understand the physical, emotional and intellectual development of children from infancy to age 6
Maintain a professional approach while observing and guiding children throughout the day
Demonstrate effective communication skills with parents, children and co-workers
Provide opportunities to enhance children?s self-esteem during daily activities
Encourage socialization of children as they play and experience things together
Be knowledgeable in related health and safety issues during daily operations
Understand nutritional requirements of young children as they relate to daily meal planning and assisting with meal time
Supervise children during indoor and outdoor play, and during rest periods
Lead children in activities by telling stories, teaching songs and preparing craft material
Guide and assist children in the development of proper eating, dressing and toilet habits
Attend staff meetings to discuss progress and problems with children
Prepare and serve snack
Assist the supervisor in keeping records
Maintain day care equipment and assist in housekeeping duties
Method of Delivery
Combination of:

Integrated LearningTM System training facilitated by Academy of Learning College facilitators.
Instructor-led
Practicum