At Futures Canadian College, we believe in education that moves you forward

DLI No:0135634495162

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Early Childhood Assistant (NACC)

Welcome to Future Canadian College in Mississauga, Ontario – where your journey to becoming a certified Early Childhood Assistant begins. The NACC Early Childhood Assistant (ECA) Diploma is designed to prepare you for meaningful roles in childcare, early learning, and child development programs. With a balance of theory, classroom learning, and co-op experience, this program equips you with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to support children’s holistic growth and development.

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    NACC Early Childhood Assistant Program?

    Strong Demand for ECA Professionals

    Ontario’s childcare sector continues to grow as families, schools, and communities require trained assistants to support early childhood programs. ECAs work alongside registered educators in daycares, early learning centres, and school-age programs, making this career both rewarding and in high demand. 

    Nationally Recognized Diploma

    As a program delivered under the National Association of Career Colleges (NACC), this diploma ensures consistent, high-quality training across Canada. The NACC credential is widely respected and assures employers that graduates have met rigorous learning outcomes, from inclusive curriculum design to health, safety, and nutrition practices.

    Co-op Placement for Real Experience

    Unlike purely classroom-based programs, our co-op work term provides direct experience in childcare environments. This hands-on training allows you to apply theory, gain practical confidence, and build a professional network—helping you transition seamlessly into employment upon graduation.

    About Future Canadian College – Mississauga

    Our Commitment

    At Future Canadian College, we align educational excellence with practical skill development. Our Mississauga campus equips students for success through quality training, supportive faculty, and strategic exam preparation—all within a nurturing academic environment. 

    Our Mission

    “To empower learners with world-class clinical training, preparing them to excel in Ontario’s healthcare sector.”

    Our Vision

    “To be the region’s most trusted source for phlebotomy and allied health education.”

    Convenient Location

    Our Mississauga facility, centrally located in the IT corridor, offers easy access via public transit and major highways, ensuring a seamless learning experience for students across the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). 

    Personal Support Worker Program Overview

    The NACC Early Childhood Assistant Co-op Diploma prepares students to work alongside educators in childcare settings, providing developmentally appropriate care for children up to age 8. Students will gain a comprehensive understanding of early childhood development, guiding behaviour, inclusive program design, and family/community collaboration. A required co-op work term grounds theory in practice, giving students valuable industry experience.

    Duration & Schedule

    • Course Length: 1000 hours (including co-op)
    • Mode of Learning: In-person / Hybrid
    • Students: Domestic & International
    • Credential: NACC Co-op Diploma

    Class Size & Format

    • Small Cohorts: 10–15 students for personalized learning and better interaction with instructors
    • Hands-On Training: Labs + supervised placements in both facility and community settings
    • Individual Attention: Instructors closely monitor progress and skill development
    • Flexible Delivery: Blend of in-person classes with guided self-study for convenience

    Learning Objectives

    In our Early Childhood Assistant Program, you will:

    • Understand the foundations of early childhood education by studying theories, principles, and practices that support healthy growth and development from birth to age 8.
    • Develop strong observation and documentation skills to assess children’s progress, identify developmental milestones, and create records that inform program planning.
    • Design and implement inclusive, play-based learning activities that foster creativity, problem-solving, and social interaction while supporting the holistic needs of children.
    • Promote health, safety, and nutrition in childcare environments by applying best practices in daily routines, meal planning, and emergency procedures.
    • Support children with diverse needs by learning strategies for creating inclusive programs that encourage participation, respect differences, and nurture every child’s potential.
    • Apply effective communication and interpersonal skills to build positive relationships with children, families, colleagues, and community partners.
    • Guide children’s behaviour using positive strategies that encourage self-regulation, cooperation, and respect within group settings.
    • Collaborate with families and communities to strengthen partnerships that support children’s learning and development both inside and outside the classroom.
    • Apply ethical and professional standards in all aspects of childcare practice, developing a personal philosophy of early learning aligned with industry expectations.
    • Gain practical confidence through supervised practicums and co-op placement, ensuring you can integrate classroom knowledge with hands-on childcare experience.

    Real World Readiness

    Practice learning with mock scenarios based on PSW skills.

    Students strengthen their learning by practicing with mock scenarios that simulate real-world PSW responsibilities. These sessions allow them to apply theoretical knowledge to hands-on activities, reinforcing essential caregiving and problem-solving skills in a safe and supportive environment. By rehearsing common workplace situations, learners gain the confidence to manage real client care challenges effectively. 

    Review sessions on client care, safety protocols, and PSW exam content areas.

    Regular review sessions focus on the core areas of client care, safety protocols, and PSW exam content. This structured reinforcement ensures students not only master practical skills but also retain the theoretical foundations required for certification. Emphasis on safety and quality of care helps learners internalize best practices that align with professional standards. 

    Guidance with PSW clinical logbook and competency checklists.

    • Students also receive step-by-step guidance on completing their PSW clinical logbook and competency checklists. This ensures accurate documentation of their training progress and helps them meet regulatory requirements with confidence. With mentorship and oversight, learners track their skill development and stay prepared for both clinical placements and the final certification process.

    Entry Requirements

    To join the course, candidates must meet the following criteria:

    • Age: Minimum 18 years
      Education: Secondary School Diploma (OSSD or equivalent) with at least 60% GPA, or mature student status with a passing Wonderlic test
      Interview: Live online or in-person interview with Admissions
      Language Proficiency: IELTS 5.5 (or equivalent) for non-native English speakers, or successful ESL completion
      Credential Assessment: Certificates or degrees obtained outside Canada must be evaluated for equivalency by WES, ICAS, or CES (University of Toronto)

    Course Outline & Syllabus

    Module

    Foundations of Early Childhood Education
    Communications
    Infant & Child Development
    Observation Skills
    Health, Safety & Nutrition
    Child, Family & Community
    Practicum I
    Introduction to Sociology
    Play-Based Early Learning Strategies
    Language & Literacy
    Introduction to Psychology
    Guiding Children’s Behaviour

    Topics Covered

    Introduction to early childhood education, roles and responsibilities, foundations of practice
    Written and oral communication skills, documentation, and workplace communication
    Prenatal, infant, toddler, preschool, and school-age child development stages
    Observation techniques, screening tools, and documentation strategies
    Health promotion, safety in childcare settings, nutrition planning and practices
    Family dynamics, community partnerships, cultural diversity in early learning
    Supervised placement focusing on child observation and guided support
    Social systems, diversity, and their influence on childhood and families
    Curriculum planning, play as a tool for learning, activity implementation
    Early language development, literacy-rich environments, and strategies
    Psychology principles relevant to early childhood behaviour and learning
    Positive guidance techniques, behaviour management, self-regulation strategies

    Career Outcomes & Placement Support

    Career Opportunities

    Graduates from our program pursue roles such as:

    • Early Childhood Assistant (ECA)
    • Child Care Worker / Daycare Assistant
    • Preschool Assistant
    • School-Age Program Assistant
    • Inclusion Support Worker

    Typical Employers:

    • Licensed childcare centres and preschools
    • Early learning programs across Ontario
    • Before-and-after school programs
    • Family resource centres
    • Private childcare and nanny services

    Career Support Services

    • Resume and job search coaching
    • Interview preparation
    • Employer network connections across the GTA
    • Alumni referrals and placement assistance

    How to Register

    Check eligibility

    Submit required academic and ID documentation

    Choose schedule

    Pick your schedule from available class schedules.

    Application & deposit

    Contact our Registrar at (905) 412‑3007 or email info@futurescollege.ca

    Course begins

    Attend, train, and get Futures ready!

    Pay tuition

    Online or in-person

    4. Submit Prerequisite

    (if specifically asked for)

    Life After Graduation

    Salary & Hiring Outlook

    • Starting Salary: CAD $34,000 – $40,000/year
    • Experienced Wage: CAD $42,000 – $55,000+/year
    • Job Growth: Steady demand across Ontario due to childcare expansion and government investment

    Career Growth

    Graduates may advance into roles as Early Childhood Educators (with further study), supervisors in childcare centres, or move into related fields such as educational support and child development services.

    Success Stories

    •  “The co-op placement gave me real-world confidence, and I was offered a job at the centre where I trained.”

    • “FCC’s program was thorough and supportive. I now work in a preschool program and love making a difference every day.”

    FAQs

    Q: What is the difference between an ECA and an ECE?

    A: ECAs assist and support Early Childhood Educators but are not registered with the College of Early Childhood Educators (CECE). Many graduates choose to later upgrade to ECE programs.

    A: No prior experience is required. The program includes foundational courses and supervised practicum to prepare you.

     A: Yes, our certificates/diplomas are globally recognized.

     A: Makeup sessions available during next intake or via self-study and catch-up labs.

     A: Yes—with conditions. See our student handbook or contact us directly for full details.

    Financial Support

    If you’re interested in financial support options, we encourage you to visit our Student Resources page for detailed information. You can also connect with our Admissions team, who will be happy to guide you through the available options and answer any questions.

    Investment Breakdown

    Tuition: CAD $ 1995 (includes lab materials, certification prep, logbook)

    Optional Extras:  

      • Official mock exam: C$50
      • Exam Review/Retake: C$100

    Price with Discount/ Scholarship- 1495 CAD $ (Terms and Conditions Apply)

    Funding Opportunities

    Eligible students may benefit from:

    • Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP)
    • WSIB, ODSP, Ontario Works funding
    • Employer/sector training grants (home health, lab chains)
    • LifeLabs/Dynacare recruitment bonuses

    Enrollment Tip:Contact our Financial Office early—let us assist you with grants, loans, and sponsorships. Rates (or prices) may vary based on time and conditions.

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