School of Community Services Diploma
Government of Alberta (ECE III)

Early Learning and Childcare Diploma

Gain the skills to nurture young children's growth in 17 months, then qualify for Level 3 ECE certification in Alberta.

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A direct path to employment, Robertson graduates finish ready for the workforce with practicum placement and hiring support from Robertson Workforce.

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Shape how young children learn and grow

Accredited by

This program is provincially approved; graduates are eligible for certification as a Level 3 Early Childhood Educator in Alberta.

Credential Diploma · 17 Months
Practicum 20 weeks

The Early Learning and Childcare diploma program is designed to give you the skills to help young children from all cultures and backgrounds grow intellectually, socially, and emotionally. Part of the Early Learning and Childcare diploma program focuses on teaching you how to create equitable, culturally relevant learning environments that encourage meaningful conversation and play.

You will learn how to address the needs of Indigenous children and families and incorporate cultural touch points into learning activities. Not only that, you'll have the privilege of helping children foster caring relationships and healthy, inclusive social interactions.

Twenty-two courses across development, curriculum, and care

  1. 1.

    Child development

    • Child Development 1 – 60h
    • Child Development 2 – 40h
    • Child Development 3 – 40h
    • Health and Well-being – 40h
  2. 2.

    Curriculum and play

    • Curriculum Approaches – 60h
    • Play-Based Learning – 40h
    • Observation and Assessment – 40h
    • Designing Learning Experiences – 40h
  3. 3.

    Literacy, numeracy and arts

    • Early Childhood Literacy – 40h
    • Early Childhood Numeracy – 40h
    • Art, Music and Movement – 40h
    • Science and the Natural Environment – 40h
  4. 4.

    Guidance and relationships

    • Family Dynamics – 60h
    • Introduction to Early Childhood Profession – 40h
    • Professionalism – 40h
    • Understanding Child Abuse – 40h
    • Guiding Children's Behavior Part I – 40h
    • Guiding Children's Behavior Part II – 40h
  5. 5.

    Culture, leadership and communication

    • The Indigenous Perspective, History and Culture – 60h
    • Leadership and Management in ELCC – 60h
    • Interpersonal Communication – 40h
    • Career Preparation – 40h

Where early childhood educators are needed

Job titles graduates land

Child and Youth Workers Child Care Professionals Child Care Teachers Child Development Assistants Childcare Center Assistant Directors Daycare Workers Home Care Providers Nursery Workers Preschool Teachers

Recent graduate placements

Child And Youth Services Child Day Care Services Elementary and Secondary Schools Family Service Agencies

Potential Earnings

$30,706–$39,654

in a year or less, after graduation

alis.alberta.ca

17 months, broken into 22 courses

Child Development 1

60h

This course introduces the principles, processes and theories of human development. Influences on prenatal development and the newborn’s capacities are explored. The physical, cognitive, language, emotional and social domains of development and milestones reached through infancy and toddlerhood are the focus of this course.

Child Development 2

40h

This course focuses on the development of the preschool child. The physical, cognitive, language, emotional and social domains of development and milestones of children ages two to six will be explored through theory, research and observation.

Child Development 3

40h

This course involves the study of the development of the school age child and adolescent. Through the study of theory, research and observation, students will explore the physical, cognitive, language, social and emotional development and milestones of children ages six to twelve, as well as the stages of development that mark the transitions through adolescence.

Health and Well-being

40h

This course introduces students to the basic principles and practices of health promotion, nutrition, illness prevention and management, safety, and occupational health.

Curriculum Approaches

60h

This course introduces students to the different approaches to early childhood education. Students will be introduced to the history of early childhood education development in Canada and the factors that have influenced this. Students will explore a variety of models and approaches to early childhood care.

Play-Based Learning

40h

This course introduces students to the value of play in children’s learning and development. The course examines how play changes as children reach each stage of development, the factors that influence play, and the early childhood educator’s role in supporting play.

Observation and Assessment

40h

This course focuses on observation and assessment. Documentation techniques and formats will be taught in this course. Students will practice these techniques by observing children and in childcare environments.

Designing Learning Experiences

40h

This course focuses on designing effective learning experiences within the early childhood environment by developing the necessary background, tools, and strategies. Students will explore the impact of the early childhood center’s philosophy, environment, materials, and resources on learning experiences.

Early Childhood Literacy

40h

Early childhood educators require knowledge and understanding of how to promote literacy. This course develops an understanding of both theory and literacy and language development activities in an early childhood environment.

Early Childhood Numeracy

40h

Early childhood educators require knowledge and understanding of how to promote numeracy. This course develops an understanding of both theory and numeracy development activities in an early childhood environment.

Art, Music and Movement

40h

This course focuses on the importance of creative self-expression for the young child. Emphasis is on art experiences, movement and music that are appropriate to the developmental levels of children.

Science and the Natural Environment

40h

This course focuses on engaging children with science and the natural environment. This course helps early childhood educators develop strategies to help children engage with and make sense of the world around them.

Introduction to Early Childhood Profession

40h

This course provides an overview of the field of early childhood education. Students will be introduced to the profession of early childhood education. Early learning program components, career options and the role and qualities of an early childhood educator will be explored.

Family Dynamics

60h

This course introduces students to different family structures and dynamics. The course develops an understanding of the significance of family on the life of a child. Students will develop strategies to support families facing crisis and stress.

Professionalism

40h

This course provides students with the knowledge essential to providing quality early childhood care and education by focusing on professional behaviors, ethical practice, and growth as advocates for the rights of children and families.

Understanding Child Abuse

40h

This course is an introduction to the Early Childhood Educator’s role and responsibilities in identifying, recording and responding; as well as educating for preventions, on behalf of children who may be victims of physical, emotional and sexual abuse or neglect. This will include the identification of personal feelings and responses to abuse.

Guiding Children's Behavior Part I

40h

This course introduces students to the basic concepts related to guiding children’s behaviors. The course introduces strategies, processes, behaviors, and routines that support the development of a nurturing and respectful early childhood environment. Students will explore their own values regarding children’s behavior, learn guidance techniques, and develop an understanding of the early childhood educator’s role in fostering healthy child behaviors.

Guiding Children's Behavior Part II

40h

Building on the topics covered in Part I, students will deepen their understanding of concepts related to guiding children’s behaviors. Students will examine and analyze strategies, processes, behaviors, and routines that support the development of a nurturing and respectful early childhood environment. They will reflect on their personal beliefs and values as they explore their personal approach to guidance.

The Indigenous Perspective, History and Culture

60h

This course introduces students to the principles of racism, inequity and exclusion as it pertains to Indigenous Peoples and will focus on building an awareness of Indigenous history and culture. ECE educators develop cultural awareness, cultural sensitivity and cultural competence to best support Indigenous children and families.

Leadership and Management in ELCC

60h

This course will prepare students to work as leaders, supervisors and managers of an ELCC facility. Students will learn how to hire and train staff, resolve conflict, oversee an operating budget, and manage a child wait list. They will also learn administrative tasks required of an ELCC manager such as payroll processes and staff scheduling. Finally, in this course, students will learn how to write funding proposals, reports and memos.

Interpersonal Communication

40h

This course provides students with a general introduction to the theory and principles of interpersonal communication. In this course, students will be given the opportunity to develop and practice skills to improve their communication effectiveness.

Career Preparation

40h

This course introduces students to career preparation strategies. Students will be introduced to job search strategies, interviews and other career management strategies.

One price that covers the whole program

Program Tuition

Includes all applicable fees, ebooks and courseware

Fees, ebooks, courseware included

$15,995

Tuition total

$15,995

Find a start date near you

Calgary

Hybrid

Open

Sep 28, 2026

17 months 20-week practicum

Edmonton

Hybrid

Diploma

Sep 28, 2026

17 months 20-week practicum
Selected — Apply Now

Testimonials from graduates.

Community Services

The most interesting aspect of my program focused on diversity, that we learned from each other, from our different cultures, ideas, dreams, and beliefs, more than from the books. It was also great to collaborate with my classmates and meet with like minded peers!

Sister Agnieszka

Early Childhood Education Graduate

Community Services

I felt supported by my instructors and encouraged by my classmates. I was part of a learning community where people are rooting for each other to succeed. The whole experience gave me confidence, knowledge, and a new sense of purpose in my work with children.

Rosalyn

Early Childhood Education Graduate

The next cohort starts September 28

Applying to Robertson College is simple, with no fee to apply and no commitment. If you'd rather talk it through first, book a 15-minute call with an advisor: they'll walk you through admission, financing, and which way to learn is best for you.

We have enjoyed having Robertson College students in our Academy for the last 3 years. We have been fortunate to be able to hire a few of these amazing students as well. We appreciate the Early Learning and Childcare Alberta team for always supporting the students in their practicums. We look forward to many more years of collaboration.

Willowbrae Academy East Hills, Employer Partner