<p>This program leads to a Red Seal certification. Visit our <a href="/go/plan/trades">Trades page</a>.</p>

The Early Childhood Care and Education diploma provides you gain the knowledge and skills to specialize in the inclusive care and development of children aged 0-6 and children with special needs. Graduates qualify for the Infant Toddler Educator (ITE) and Special Needs Educator (SNE) certifications from the B.C. Ministry of Children and Family Development.

Early Childhood Care and Education Diploma

Vancouver Community College

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If you apply Year 1 Entry:

- High school graduation or equivalent
- English 12 (C) or [equivalent](https://www.vcc.ca/applying/registration-services/english-language-proficiency-requirements/general-information/)
- Minimum 18 years old
- Interview with Selection Committee, in person or by video conference
- Two letters of recommendation
- 40 hours of volunteering work in a licensed childcare facility in BC. Work experience must be verified by an official employer letter.


If you apply Year 2 Entry:

- Successful completion of VCC's Early Childhood Care and Education Certificate, or other approved training program as per BC Ministry of Children and Family Development Early Childhood Education Registry
- High school graduation or equivalent
- English 12 (C) or [equivalent](https://www.vcc.ca/applying/registration-services/english-language-proficiency-requirements/general-information/)
- Interview with Selection Committee, in person or by video conference
- Two letters of recommendation



1. Upon acceptance, you need to provide:
    
    - Criminal record check
    - TB screening
    - A VCC Immunizations Record must be completed. Some cases may be required:
    - Diphtheria/Tetanus/Pertussis
    - Polio
    - Measles, Mumps & Rubella
    - Varicella (chicken pox)
    - Hepatitis B
    - Influenza
    - COVID-19
    
2. This program is available to Canadian citizens and permanent residents.
3. Applicants who self-identify as Indigenous are strongly encouraged to connect with VCC’s Indigenous Education and Community Engagement team to learn more about VCC’s Indigenous Enrolment policy, application preparation/completion, program advising, and a range of other individualized services.
4. Applicants must submit official transcripts and other documents as required by their course or program.
5. If you miss prerequisites, learn more about VCC's tuition-free academic upgrading or English as a Second Language (ESL) courses, or discover which university transfer options are right for you.


For Winter 2026, Applications open in early February 2025 and close in early October 2025. Verify with the institution for specific dates.

When you are ready to apply, use our [pre-application checklist](https://www.educationplannerbc.ca/go/resources) to make sure you have everything you need, and visit our [How-to guides page](https://www.educationplannerbc.ca/help) for more information. 

Early Childhood Care and Education Diploma

Vancouver Community College

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