Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU) is welcoming its first intake of students pursuing a diploma in Early Childhood Care and Education.
As part of a new partnership between KPU, Capilano University and Métis Nation British Columbia (MNBC), students can now take Capilano’s early childhood care and education courses at KPU Surrey.
“We are responding to the need for trained early childhood educators south of the Fraser,” says Diane Purvey, Provost and Vice-President, Academic at KPU. "These educators will play a vital role in ensuring our young children will develop to their fullest potential."
KPU’s intake began this week with 22 students. The full-time studies program has a blended course delivery, in which students take courses in-person at KPU Surrey on evenings and weekends to meet core program requirements. Additional courses can be completed through KPU or Capilano University.
Earning their diploma within three years, students will have the competencies and knowledge to work with children under the age of five in licensed preschools and childcare centres.
The program is administered by the Faculty of Academic and Career Preparation at KPU. Dean Aimee Begalka says there is growing demand for trained workers in the field, particularly in the South Fraser region.
“KPU is committed to strengthening capacity in B.C.’s early childhood care and education systems, while meeting needs of children and aspirations of families. This program will provide new access to a profession in need of qualified workers,” says Begalka.
A new child care facility proposed for KPU Surrey is expected to provide practicum placement opportunities for students in the diploma program. Earlier this year KPU announced a proposal to build a 61-space child care facility with MNBC. Providing expertise and resources toward the planning and operation of the facility is MNBC, and KPU continues to explore opportunities for the facility with Indigenous communities.