ECA Training for Internationally Trained Educators

If you’ve trained or worked as a teacher or early childhood professional outside of Canada and are looking to build a meaningful career in Ontario’s child care sector, this Ontario Bridge Training Program may be a great fit for you.

The Early Childhood Assistant (ECA) Training Program for Internationally Trained Educators is an Ontario Bridge Training Program designed to support internationally trained professionals in translating their experience into meaningful roles in Ontario’s child care sector.


Through this 15-week program, you will receive technical training in child care sector standards, workplace communication, and industry-recognized certifications. You’ll also complete two hands-on practicum placements with local child care providers, giving you valuable Canadian experience in a real-world setting.


You will also get personalized job search support, including resume help, interview prep, and employment connections to help you secure work as an Early Childhood Assistant.


Throughout the program, you will learn from experienced instructors and collaborate with child care professionals who are passionate about the field. This hands-on experience will help you build practical knowledge and confidence as you begin your career in Ontario’s early years sector.

Essential certifications granted to those who complete the program include:

  • WHMIS.

  • Standard First Aid & CPR Level C.

  • Food Handler Certificate.

  • LEF Early Childhood Assistant Certificate

    Next Cohort
    Start Date:
    Monday, September 8th 2025
    Information Session 1:
    Wednesday, July 16th at 11am
    Information Session 2:
    Friday, July 18th at 11am

Click the button to join the waitlist and the Zoom link for the information session will be sent to you.


Eligibility:

To be eligible for the program, you must:

  • Be 18 years or older and currently living in Ontario

  • Have international education and/or work experience in education or early childhood education

  • Be available to attend in-person classes, Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

  • Have language proficiency at CLB 6 or higher, or equivalent

  • Be willing to obtain a Vulnerable Sector Police Check and a medical certificate confirming immunizations

  • Belong to one of the following immigration categories:

    • Permanent Resident

    • Naturalized Canadian Citizen

    • Approved Provincial Nominee (excluding International Student stream)

    • Convention Refugee or Protected Persons

    • Refugee Claimant with a 900-series SIN and open work permit

    • Visitor under emergency travel measures (e.g., CUAET) with a 900-series SIN and open work permit

Funded By

LEF Child Care

LEF child care centres are the heart of our communities, built on a foundation of strong relationships with children, families, and community partners.
Learn about our Child Care Program

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    Alternative Careers in Health Promotion and Education for Internationally Trained Physicians (Ontario Bridge Training Program) or ACiHPE is a 24 week program designed to inform internationally trained physicians about Ontario's healthcare ecosystem in non-practitioner roles.

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https://data.ontario.ca/dataset/private-career-colleges-pcc-key-performance-indicators


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