More early childhood educators in the Fraser Valley will soon have access to training to become infant and toddler educators, thanks to an expansion of the program at the University of the Fraser Valley (UFV).

“Families need access to quality child care that they can afford, and making sure we have enough care providers is a key part in making that happen,” said Melanie Mark, Minister of Advanced Education, Skills and Training. “Expanding the infant toddler educator program at the University of the Fraser Valley will give more students the opportunity to flourish in a rewarding career that supports our children.”

An $111,000 investment by the Province is helping UFV add 12 new seats to the September 2018 intake of its infant toddler educator program.

“Early childhood educators (ECEs) play a vital role in providing quality early learning experiences, and that’s why training more ECEs who are committed to caring for children — especially infants and toddlers — is so important,” said Katrina Chen, Minister of State for Child Care. “Infant and toddler care is in high demand, and these 12 new seats, in addition to the many others government is funding, mean that more young children and their families will be able to access high-quality care.”

Based on the 2017 Labour Market Outlook, B.C. will need 9,100 additional ECEs by 2027. Training ECEs is key to ensuring that children have access to quality early childhood education programs in communities throughout B.C.

“We’re really appreciative of the support of the Province,” said Joanne MacLean, president of UFV. “Funding more spaces in our infant toddler educator program will allow us to better meet local demand, while ensuring those educators are qualified and can help our children get the best start possible.”

Quick Facts:

• The Childcare BC plan outlines the Province’s $1-billion investment over three years. It will help lay the foundation for a universal child care system that will provide B.C. parents with access to quality, affordable child care.
• Funding for the expansion at the University of the Fraser Valley is part of a $7.4-million investment over three years by the Ministry of Advanced Education, Skills and Training, to fund an additional 620 early childhood educator graduates at public post-secondary institutions throughout B.C.d

Learn More:

For more information about child care in B.C., visit: www.gov.bc.ca/childcare

For more information about the early childhood education certificate program at the University of the Fraser Valley, visit: https://www.ufv.ca/ece/programs/early-childhood-education-certificate/