Applications are now open for Okanagan College’s new early childhood care programs that will open next year in Salmon Arm.
The College made the announcement online, saying that there are employment opportunities for early childhood educators that are growing across the province, with thousands of job openings projected over the next 10 years.
The College said they are expanding access to their ECE programs with two new flexible options, a certificate and diploma program, to help meet the province’s growing needs.
- ECE Certificate (Hybrid) – An 11-month program with online evening classes three nights a week, paired with one in-person lab day at the Penticton or Salmon Arm campus.
- Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) Diploma – A two-year, primarily online program designed for those already working in the sector who want to upgrade their qualifications while completing practicum hours with their employer.
“Our goal is to ensure that people in every part of our region, from Penticton to Salmon Arm, have access to the education and training that local employers are asking for,” said Joanne Gibbons-Smyth, interim dean, health and social development at OC.
“These new ECE pathways help students build rewarding careers close to home while supporting the growth and resiliency of our regional workforce.”
