Main Programs and Courses Teaching Education Programs Early Childhood Education Post Basic (Special Needs Specialization)

Early Childhood Education Post Basic (Special Needs Specialization)

Please check with the campus of your choice for program availability.

The Early Childhood Education Post Basic (Special Needs Specialization) program provides continuing education to Early Childhood Educators or those who are in the process of completing the required 500 hours of work experience needed to be certified.

It takes caring, compassionate and patient people to work with children who have special needs. It also requires specific training to ensure all children in an ECE professional's care are receiving the care they need and deserve. The Early Childhood Education Post Basic (Special Needs Specialization) program gives ECE professionals a broader range of skills that they can use in any ECE setting. Whether working in a public preschool or a private daycare, Early Childhood Educators can benefit greatly from this additional ECE diploma.

*Workplace placement must be completed in British Columbia

Academic Admission Requirements

High school graduation or equivalent* OR mature student status**.
Completion of a Basic Early Childhood Education program from an accredited college

*From an English language teaching institution.
**19 years of age upon starting classes, and pass college’s English admissions test.

Administrative Admissions Requirements

Interview with campus director, program coordinator, or designate
Current resume (record of work history)
Three character references

This program has been approved by the registrar of the Private Training Institutions Branch (PTIB) of the Ministry of Advanced Education, Skills and Training.

Individuals who have successfully completed early childhood training through a recognized educational institution in British Columbia may apply to the BC Early Childhood Educator Registry for certification as a Special Needs Educator (SNE). Contact the Early Childhood Educator Registry for details of the application process at 1.888.338.6622 or visit their website.

This program is 18 weeks in length.

Daycare Supervisor
Daycare Worker
Preschool Supervisor
Childcare Worker
Early Childhood Supervisor
Early Childhood Program Director

Program Courses

ECE4091 / Special Needs Practicum

A six-week integrated community based practicum, supervised by a Certified Special Needs Educator with additional observation and evaluation by ECE Faculty from the College. This laboratory course provides the student with opportunities for the development and implementation of comprehensive projects that demonstrate advanced professional knowledge and practice.

ECE4000 / Advanced Child Growth and Development

Students will review typical development from birth to six years of age. This module includes a focus on recognition of children who require additional support with an emphasis placed on current theory and research. Students will apply their knowledge of child growth, development and individual differences using a case study approach.

ECE4010 / Interacting with Families, School and Community

This module examines the knowledge, strategies and competencies needed by the early childhood educator to collaborate effectively with families of infants, toddlers and children who need additional support. The ethics of empowerment of families, professionals, and children is also examined. Students will review the family systems approach, communication skills and the family-centred care model.

ECE4050 / Administration Skills for Child Care Centers

This module prepares students in the administrative duties of a preschool or daycare. Topics such as program philosophy and policy design, financial management, organizational structure, staff development and relationships with families and community will be highlighted.

ECE4060 / Advanced Health, Safety and Nutrition

This module equips the student with knowledge and skills for planning, implementing and evaluating health practices for infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and children who need extra support in integrated and infant/toddler settings.

ECE4070 / Foundations of Working with Children with Special Needs

This module is designed for those requiring specialized skills in the care and guidance of working with children who require additional support. Students will explore the selection and use of appropriate assessment materials and intervention techniques for working with children who have special needs. A family-centered approach, which focuses on promoting social interactions among children, will be taken.

ECE4080 / Program Planning for Children with Special Needs

The emphasis of this module is on adaptation of special care needs and curriculum development to the various group care environments. Child development principles will provide the basis for program planning and implementation.

Early Childhood Education Post Basic (Special Needs Specialization)

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