What’s the main difference between an ECEA and an ECE in BC?

An ECEA supports certified educators in licensed childcare settings, while an ECE is trained for a lead educator role with broader responsibilities in curriculum planning and child development.

How long is the ECEA program at Capital College?

The Early Childhood Education Assistant (ECEA) program is 30, 40, or 45 hours depending on the elective option you choose.

How long is the ECE program at Capital College?

The Early Childhood Education (ECE) program is approximately 45 weeks, depending on the schedule.

Does the ECE program include practicum experience?

Yes. The ECE program includes 434 practicum hours across three workplace practicums in licensed childcare settings.

Which program should I take if I want to become a certified Early Childhood Educator in BC?

If your goal is to work as a fully certified Early Childhood Educator in British Columbia, the ECE program is designed to prepare students to apply for ECE certification, with additional work experience requirements set by the ECE Registry.

Is the ECEA program a good option if I’m changing careers?

Yes. The ECEA program can be a good fit if you want a shorter entry point into the childcare field and prefer to build experience before committing to a longer program.

Are both programs recognized in British Columbia?

Capital College’s ECEA and ECE programs are designated under the Private Training Act and recognized by the Ministry of Education and Childcare’s ECE Registry.

I live in Richmond or the Lower Mainland — can these programs help me work locally?

Many students pursue ECEA or ECE training to work in licensed childcare settings across Richmond, Metro Vancouver, and the Lower Mainland. The best choice depends on whether you want an assistant role or a certified educator role.

Education Assistant Certificate Program (EA)

The Education Assistant (EA) Certificate Program prepares students to support teachers and learners in elementary and secondary school settings. Students gain foundational knowledge and practical skills in child and adolescent development, inclusive education, classroom assistance, positive behaviour support, and effective communication. The program also includes a supervised practicum component in an educational setting.

Approximately 16 weeks (4 months)

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Instructional: 450 hours | Practicum: 100 hours

Education assistant reading a book with a young student

Learning Objectives

Support diverse learners in school settings
Assist teachers with classroom activities
Promote inclusive education
Provide positive behaviour support
Work collaboratively with educational professionals

Career Occupation

NOC Code (2021 ed.) 43100: Elementary and Secondary School Teacher Assistants

Educational Assistant
Teacher's Assistant
Teacher's Helper
Educational Resources Assistant
Elementary School Teacher's Aide
Secondary School Teacher's Assistant
Special Education Assistant
Special Needs Educational Assistant

Program Duration

Approximately 16 weeks (4 months)
Instructional: 450 hours
Practicum: 100 hours

Program duration may vary depending on class schedules and practicum arrangements.

Admission Requirements

19 years of age prior to the start of the study period and/or graduation from Grade 12 (or equivalent)
English requirement: completion of 2 years of secondary education in English (including English 10 and 11 with a grade of C or higher), or completion of 2 years of full-time post-secondary education in English, or one of the following: Duolingo 95 / IELTS 5.5 (Academic) / PTE 43 (Academic) / CELPIP (L6 S6 R5 W5)
Photocopy of personal ID
Diploma and transcript in English of highest education completed (if applicable)
Student Enrollment Contract
Valid Canadian Criminal Record Check clearance
First Aid Certificate

Student Loan

Domestic students are eligible for a student loan.

Completion Requirements

Academic: attendance and completion of assignments (see Student Handbook: Attendance Policy and Grading Policy)
Practicum: successful completion of all practicum requirements (see Student Handbook: Practicum Policy)
Financial: no outstanding debt to the institution (check with Chief Financial Officer)

Program Schedule

Alternative program schedules are available.

Note

The refund policy is set according to the Private Training Act regulated by the Private Training Institutions Regulatory Unit (PTIRU).
Tuition does not include school trips, First Aid class, Canadian Criminal Record Check, or other individual costs for classes or assignments.

Best value – Best instructors – Excellent student support

Programs

Montessori Education

Early Childhood Education

English Language Programs

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Program Cost

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Caregiver Program

Capital College

Unit 540
4400 Hazelbridge Way
Richmond, BC, Canada
V6X 3R8

[email protected]

(604) 270-7426

Capital College.

Education Assistant Certificate Program (EA)

Programs

Capital College

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