Diploma Program

In order to support the growth and development of young children we need to meet their basic needs and provide opportunties to develop high self-esteem, independence, and beginnings of social responsibilities. Children need self respect, a belief in their own competence and a chance to actively explore the world around them. Adults working with young children are thus obligated to act in ways that permit chidlren to develop self respect, competence and construct deeply productive knowledge. Over several decades of research, developmentally appropriate practice has been found to offer this to children.

Real Life Practical Experience

NSCECE provides the opportunity for students to acquire hands-on trianing and knowledge thorughout its two-year program. There are 600 hours of pracitcal experience integrated into the program. Each student will gain practical work experience in four different child care settings. At least one practicum placement will be in a NSCECE lab school.

Research has proven that one of the main compentents of quality child care lies in the kowledge level and professional nature of the staff. Providing students with staff mentors who are educated and highly skilled in the practice of early childhood education helps ECE students to make connections betwen course content and the daily practice of early childhood education.

Field placement opportunities are in approved licensed child care settings where students work with children from infancy to school age. Field placements provide students with the opportunity to demonstrate skills in communication, professionalism, behaviour guidance, curriculum planning and implementation. Students will synthesize osbervation, child development and curriculum knowledge in order to implement a holistic approach to program planning.

Professional Lab Schools

The College operates three lab schools (demonstration child care sites) which provide students with observation and practicum opportunities. The lab schools are an integral component of the training education of our early childhood education students. Students connect with the lab schools during the program of studies through assignments, observatioins, class presentations and practicum experiences. The lab school staff welcome students’ participation in their programs, and are eager to offer support as students complete their assignments.