An educator smiles as she helps to children ride a red bicycle outside.

Early Childhood Assistant Training Program

Imagine helping to spark the curiosity in young children every single day. That’s the joy and responsibility you take on when stepping into the centre as an Early Childhood Assistant.

The Early Childhood Assistant Training Program at LEF offers a pathway to a rewarding career in childcare. With over two decades of experience, our program equips you with the skills and experience needed for roles in childcare facilities or home child care across the city.

This 14-week program is approved under the ‘Private Career Colleges Act, 2005’ and provides a comprehensive childcare curriculum. You will gain practical experience through two placements, totaling 320 hours in the childcare field. Topics covered include legislative provisions in the Child Care Early Years Act, 2014, health and safety, behavior guidance, nutrition, and curriculum planning.

Working closely with our experienced instructors and childcare staff, you will build the essential skills needed to become Early Childhood Assistants. Upon completion, you will earn the following certificates:

LEF Early Childhood Assistant Certificate
Standard First Aid,
Standard First Aid & CPR Level C.
WHMIS
Food Handler

Early Childhood Assistant Training Program for Newcomers

This program provides the necessary foundation and support to thrive in the Child Care sector while also helping you as a newcomer to build a strong sense of belonging in your new community.

The Early Childhood Assistant (ECA) Training for Newcomers Program is a 21-week comprehensive course designed to support newcomers with intermediate English language skills in pursuing employment opportunities in the growing Child Care sector. The program includes ECA skills training, ECA Occupation-Specific Language Training (OSLT), and two work placements in the childcare field. It is offered both online and in person, providing flexibility for participants.

Throughout the program, you will work closely with experienced instructors and childcare staff who are experts in the field. This hands-on experience ensures that you gain practical knowledge and relevant skills to excel in your roles as Early Childhood Assistants.

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

Eligibility:

CLB 5-7
Ontario Works recipient
Fully vaccinated as per public health guidelines

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

Other programs

Building Maintenance and Superintendent Training
Join a 10-week training program, experiencing hands on training and a 4-week job placement as you learn building systems basics, fire systems and safety, customer service skills, and more, all at no cost for eligible students!
Warehouse Essential Skills
Operating for over 2 decades, LEF's Warehouse Essential Skills program allows you to learn and obtain in-demand certificates including Narrow Aisle Reach, Counter Balance Forklift, Walkie End Rider, WHMIS, First Aid, and more!
Entrepreneurship Program
Learn what you should know as a Newcomer to Canada aspiring to be an entrepreneur. Start with essential aspects of entrepreneurship, from problem solving and collaboration, to getting your business funded and learning effective marketing strategies. Each participant receives personalized one-on-one business coaching. Learn to own and run a business in Canada.
Bicycle Assembly and Maintenance (BAM)
Since 2009, LEF has been operating the Weston Wheels bike shop serving the Mount Dennis area at affordable prices. In addition, we have been teaching the community to assemble and repair bicycles through a 4-week intensive program about bike repair as an individual or an employee.