Bridge to Early Learning and Child Care Extension Certificate

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The Bridge to Early Learning and Child Care Extension Certificate offers an educational online pathway for English as an Additional Language (EAL) learners considering a career working with children and families in Alberta in child care, preschool, school age care, family child care, or nanny positions. Those currently working in early learning and child care in Alberta may be interested in the micro-credential courses for professional development.

Alberta Child Care Grant Funding Program Approved: Each of the micro-credential courses are approved under the workshop category (all levels) for Professional Development funding at $215 and a maximum of 15 hours of Release Time for those working in licensed child care programs. Refer to the Alberta Child Care Grant Funding Program website to confirm if you are eligible.

International EAL learners considering an early learning certificate, diploma or degree would benefit from completing the micro-credential courses as an introduction to early learning and child care in Alberta.
Note: The courses are not transferable to other post-secondary institutions through the Alberta Council on Admissions and Transfer.

The program consists of five, 15 hour online micro-credential courses that provide an overview of early learning practices in Alberta. Courses include content that incorporates the flight Alberta curriculum framework concepts, intercultural and Indigenous perspectives together with an exploration of the role of the early childhood educator. The program incorporates English language and cultural competencies as a bridge within the early childhood educator core topic areas.

Learners must demonstrate English Language Proficiency in one of the following ways:

• International learners will require IELTS 6.5 or equivalent to be successful in the program; OR
• International learners must demonstrate English Language Proficiency in one of the ways noted on the English Language Proficiency Requirement-Institutional.

International learners should self-test their English Language Proficiency by completing a Knowledge Self-Test. A knowledge self- test can allow learners to gauge their own ability. Learners can do this by completing the “Take an English Quiz” button listed on the LEAP website. Alternatively, learners can also test their English Language Proficiency through the Centre for Canadian Language Benchmarks website, which will prompt learners to take a free assessment to self-assess their English as a Second Language.

Micro-credentials

Each course in the Early Learning and Child Care Extension Certificate is a designated micro-credential offered through the Faculty of Continuing Education. Our micro-credentials enable you to develop and demonstrate specific skills that today’s employers need. Complete a micro-credential course to earn a digital badge that you can share online so employers can verify your achievement. Learn more.