Alberta Is Investing in Early Childhood Educators
The Government of Alberta is supporting the child care sector through the Early Childhood Educator Workforce Supports Program. This initiative helps strengthen the workforce by improving wages, supporting professional development, and encouraging long-term career growth for Early Childhood Educators (ECEs).
For current and future educators, this means more access to funding, training, and career opportunities in Alberta’s growing child care sector.
What Does the Program Include?
💰 Wage Top-Ups
Eligible ECEs may receive additional income based on their certification level:
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
The more qualified you are, the greater your earning potential.
📚 Professional Development Support
Funding may be available for:
ECE courses
Workshops and training
Certification upgrades from Level 1 to Level 2 or 3
This support can help cover tuition, textbooks, and approved learning expenses.
⏳ Paid Release Time
ECEs may also qualify for paid time while completing courses or professional training, making it easier to continue learning while working.
What Changed?
Previously, many educators accessed support through Professional Development (PD) Funding, which focused mainly on training expenses.
The new Workforce Supports Program expands support by including:
- Wage enhancements
- Paid release time
- Employer workforce supports
- Long-term workforce stability initiatives
Why It Matters?
Alberta’s child care sector continues to grow, increasing demand for qualified educators. These workforce supports help:
- Improve job stability
- Increase earning potential
- Encourage certification upgrades
- Support long-term career growth
Start Your ECE Career with Train Alberta
At Train Alberta, we help students prepare for careers in Early Learning and Child Care through:
- Level 1, 2, and 3 certification pathways
- Career-focused training
- Flexible learning opportunities
