Student in Early Childhood Education program at Island Career Academy
    $5,000 Bursary Available

    Get $5,000 Toward Your ECE Diploma

    * Bursary provided by NS Department of Education and Early Childhood Development

    Launch your rewarding career in early childhood education with financial assistance, comprehensive training, and hands-on experience in Nova Scotia.

    $5,000
    Bursary Available
    46
    Weeks Training
    600
    Hours Practicum
    High
    Job Demand

    Government-Approved ECE Training

    Join hundreds of graduates who have pursued careers in early childhood education through our comprehensive, government-approved training programs.

    Government Approved

    Developed with the Nova Scotia Department of Labour & Advanced Education to meet all provincial standards.

    Hands-On Learning

    600 hours of practical experience in licensed childcare facilities with experienced mentors.

    Career Services

    Dedicated support team helps connect graduates with childcare centers and early learning facilities.

    Shape the Future of Early Learning

    Our Early Childhood Education program teaches both theoretical knowledge and practical experience to create and sustain childcare programs for families and the community. Graduate ready to make a meaningful impact on children's lives.

    Extensive Practicum Experience

    600 hours of supervised hands-on experience in licensed childcare facilities

    Comprehensive Curriculum

    Child development, curriculum planning, behavior guidance, and family engagement

    Provincial Certification

    Graduate qualified to work in licensed childcare facilities across Nova Scotia

    $5,000 Bursary Support

    Significant financial assistance to help make your education more affordable

    Student in Early Childhood Education program at Island Career Academy
    46 Weeks

    Program Quick Facts

    Bursary

    $5,000

    Financial assistance

    Duration

    46 Weeks

    Full-time program

    Practicum

    600 Hours

    Hands-on experience

    Job Outlook

    Excellent

    Growing demand

    Where Your ECE Career Can Take You

    Graduate with the skills and credentials to work in various early childhood settings across Nova Scotia.

    Daycare Centers

    Lead classrooms, develop curricula, and support children's daily learning and development in licensed daycare facilities.

    Preschool Programs

    Prepare children for school readiness through structured learning activities and social-emotional development programs.

    Family Resource Centers

    Support families through community programs, parent education, and early intervention services for children with diverse needs.

    About the $5,000 ECE Bursary

    This bursary is designed to make early childhood education training more accessible and help address the growing need for qualified ECEs in Nova Scotia.

    Eligibility Requirements

    Nova Scotia Residency

    Must be a resident of Nova Scotia for at least 12 months

    Financial Need

    Meet financial need criteria based on household income assessment

    Work Commitment

    Commitment to work in Nova Scotia's childcare sector for at least 2 years

    Academic Standing

    Maintain satisfactory academic progress throughout the program

    Happy kindergarten teacher with children
    $5,000 Bursary

    * NS Dept. of Education funding

    Get Your $5,000 ECE Bursary Info

    Submit your information below to learn about the Early Childhood Education program and bursary eligibility.

    * Bursary funding through NS Department of Education and Early Childhood Development

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Get answers to common questions about our ECE bursary program.

    How do I qualify for the $5,000 bursary?

    The bursary is available to qualified applicants who meet specific criteria including Nova Scotia residency, financial need assessment, and commitment to working in the childcare sector. Our admissions team will review your eligibility during the application process.

    What does an Early Childhood Educator do?

    ECEs create safe, nurturing environments for young children, develop educational programs, support child development milestones, communicate with families, and help prepare children for their educational journey. You'll work with children from infancy to school age.

    What career opportunities are available as an ECE?

    Early Childhood Educators have diverse career opportunities including working in licensed childcare centers, preschools, family resource centers, or with special needs children. The sector offers job security with growing demand for qualified childcare professionals and opportunities for advancement to supervisory roles.

    Do I need any prerequisites for the ECE program?

    You need a high school diploma or equivalent, a clear vulnerable sector check, and first aid/CPR certification (can be obtained during the program). A genuine passion for working with children and supporting their development is essential.

    What's included in the 600 hours of practicum?

    Your practicum includes hands-on experience in licensed childcare centers, working directly with children under supervision. You'll gain practical skills in curriculum planning, behavior guidance, family communication, and early childhood assessment.

    Is this program recognized by employers?

    Yes! Our ECE program is developed with the Nova Scotia Department of Labour & Advanced Education and meets all provincial licensing requirements. Graduates are qualified to work in licensed childcare facilities across Nova Scotia.

    Ready to Start Your ECE Journey?

    Our admissions team is here to help you navigate the bursary application process and answer any questions about the program.

    Call Us

    Speak with an admissions advisor

    (902) 564-6112

    Email Us

    Get detailed program information

    admissions@islandcareer.ca

    Visit Us

    Schedule a campus tour

    Sydney, NS