• Early Learning and Childcare Certificate

    At Train Alberta, we are committed to providing comprehensive and high-quality training for future leaders in early childhood education. Our Early Learning and Childcare Certificate (ELCC) is designed to equip you with the skills, knowledge, and practical experience needed to excel in this rewarding field. 
    Eligible for Early Childhood Educator Level 2.
    Get started

    Already enrolled? Click here to login

Start Date

March 25, 2025
July 29, 2025
September 23, 2025

Duration

50 weeks

Program Delivery

Instructor-led, delivered virtually or 

in-person program

Program Cost

$7,789.00


Admission Requirements

We are excited that you are considering joining our Early Learning and Childcare Certificate (ELCC). To ensure a smooth admission process,  please review the following requirements carefully.

General Admission
Mature Students
English as a Second Language
Program Cost
Student Aid
Additional Information
General Admission
To qualify for admission to the Early Learning and Childcare Certificate (ELCC), applicants must meet the following criteria: 
  • Completion of a high school diploma or its equivalent; and a credit in either English 30-1 or 30-2, or an equivalent course. 
  • All applicants must provide supporting documents, including transcripts and proof of their high school diploma or Canadian Adult Education Credential (CAEC) scores, as well as a current government-issued photo ID to verify their identity. 
  • Students who have received their high school diploma outside of Canada must provide verification through International Qualifications Assessment Service (IQAS) or World Education Services, see English Requirements.
Current Photo ID:
  • A current, government-issued photo ID is necessary to verify your identity during the admission and instructional process. Acceptable forms of ID include a driver’s license, passport, or national identification card.
  • Ensure that the photo ID is not expired and contains a clear photograph of you.
Mature Students

Applicants who have not achieved a high school diploma may apply as mature students. To qualify, mature students must be 18 years of age or older. Mature students must meet the English Language Requirements and must provide assessment results from one of the following:

- Wonderlic Scholastic Level Exam (SLE) – minimum range of 20 – 26


- Canadian Achievement Survey Test for Adults (CAST) – minimum range of 1622


- College Board Placement Test (Accuplacer) – combined score of 237 or higher (administered through Lethbridge Polytecyhnic – online)

English as a Second Language
If English is your first language - High School English 30-1 or 30-2 CAEC scores, Certificates or Diplomas achieved with back up transcripts. 

If English is NOT your first language - 
One of the following English proficiency test scores is required:
  • TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
    Minimum score: 60 (iBT)

  • IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
    Minimum score: 6 (Academic Module)

  • CELPIP / LINC / CLB (Canadian Language Benchmark)
    Minimum score 7 or greater in reading, writing, speaking, and listening components

  • Other Recognized Proficiency Tests
    Provide scores from other recognized tests or credentials may be considered, including: IQAS, WES, or Certificates or Diplomas achieved with backup transcripts for a minimum one year program in a recognized English-speaking country

Program Cost

Tuition$6,529.00
Textbooks and Material Fees: $1,180.00
Other Costs: $80.00

Program Cost: $7,789.00

Student Aid

Accessing financial aid can help you invest in your education and worry less about how you will pay for it.


Provincial and Canada Student Loans

As Train Alberta is a Designated Educational Institution, students in the Early Learning and Childcare Programs (Certificate and Diploma) are eligible to receive Provincial and Canada student loans. After registration, students are directed to apply for student loans directly with their provincial student loan service centre.


Alberta Child Care Grant Funding

Students in the Early Learning and Childcare Program (Certificate and Diploma) may apply for and receive Professional Development Funding, provided they meet the eligibility criteria as indicated in the Alberta Child Care Grant Funding Guide.


Canada-Alberta Job Grant

Employers may be eligible to receive the Canada-Alberta Job Grant when they contribute to an employee's training costs with Train Alberta. To find out if you and your employer are eligible, visit the Canada-Alberta Job Grant website.

Additional Information
  • Accreditation: Train Alberta's early learning and childcare programs are recognized for certification by the Alberta government.
  • Application Deadline: Ensure that all required documents are submitted by the application deadline specified on our website. Late submissions may result in delays or disqualification from the admission process.
  • Contact Us: If you have any questions about the admission requirements or need assistance with the application process, please do not hesitate to contact our admissions office.
  • We look forward to reviewing your application and potentially welcoming you to our ELCP Certificate Program. Your journey to becoming an advanced early childhood educator starts here!

​Register Today

Complete the form below for us to contact you and determine your eligibility.

Were you referred by an existing student? Click here.

Upcoming Certificate Programs

Certificate - ELCC-PT-19

  • March 25, 2025 - March 10, 2026

Certificate - ELCC-PT-20

  • July 29, 2025 to July 14, 2026

Certificate - ELCC-PT-21

  • September 23, 2025

CURRICULUM

ELCC 182: English Writing/Written Communication:

Learn essential writing skills, including essay and business writing


ELCC 114: Health, Safety And Nutrition:

Explore essential aspects of maintaining health and safety in early childhood settings, including proper health practices, nutrition fundamentals, and identifying necessary safety components


ELCC 112: Child Development:

Examines the holistic development of children from conception through age five, covering physical, cognitive, social, and emotional aspect


ELCC 166: Child Guidance:

Focuses on comprehending and nurturing children, fostering their growth into confident, responsible, productive, and content individuals


ELCC 140: Introduction To Play:

Explore the significance of play in children's lives, examining its nature, development, and importance


ELCC 194: Practicum/Integration Seminar:

Provides students with hands-on learning opportunities alongside experienced professionals, aimed at cultivating effective interactions with young children


ELCC 141: Literacy & Curriculum Development:

Explores the essence, growth, and significance of literature within Early Learning and Child Care (ELCC) programs


ELCC 168: Interpersonal Relationships:

Delves into the exploration of professional roles, responsibilities, and ethical considerations within Early Learning and Child Care (ELCC) settings


ELCC 145: Learning Through Play:

Introduces the integration of science/nature, mathematics, and social studies concepts within a cohesive learning framework

Why Train Alberta?

Instructor-Led Classes

Our Early Learning and Childcare program offers virtual and in-person instructor-led classes designed to engage your desire to learn and connect.

Virtual
Training

Online learning platforms to provide flexible and high-quality education so you can apply your training to your work.


Small Classroom Sizes

Small classroom sizes ensure each student receives individual attention and tailored support from instructors and administrative staff.