Mature African-American early childhood educator

Programs & Services

YWCA Discover

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YWCA Discover is a free 51-week PBLMT Training Program for women, delivered by YWCA BC, Sprott Shaw College and WorkBC Centres. It will provide participants with the skills and competencies they need for a career as an ECE, in line with industry standards.

Participants Will

Develop a broad range of skills through the study and practice of certified courses in order to develop and lead daily age-appropriate activities for children aimed to help promote social, emotional, physical, cognitive and early literacy development
Learn to observe children and communicate professionally, when appropriate, children’s progress and/or needs with parents, other staff members and individuals involved with the child’s development
Upon graduation, be eligible to apply for an Early Childhood Education Basic certification from the Ministry of Education and Child Care
Be provided with a variety of practicum placements. This experience within a licensed child care setting enables the practicum supervisor to observe the student in a practice situation while providing the student with the opportunity to gain direct exposure to the chosen career field

This training is provided in partnership with Sprott Shaw College, which is a member of Early Childhood Educators of British Columbia (ECEBC).

Participants Must Be

19+ years of age (priority will be given to self-identifying women and immigrants)
Currently on EI OR had an EI claim in the last five years OR earned more than $2,000 in insurable earnings and paid employee EI premiums on those earnings in at least five of the last 10 years OR A British Columbia Employment and Assistance Client (BCEA)
A current resident of Metro Vancouver who possesses either a Canadian Citizenship, Permanent Residency or Refugee with a protected person status
Must have a clear Criminal Record Check
May be eligible to receive up to $650 weekly in living supports

Further criteria apply.

Training begins: February 16, 2026
Applications open: December 1, 2025
Applications close: January 2, 2026 at 4 PM

Location: Courses will be provided virtually by Sprott Shaw College. Practicums will be in-person at various locations in Metro Vancouver.

Please note: All applicants must be registered with a WorkBC Centre and have a WorkBC Case Manager. If you are not currently registered with WorkBC, click here to find and contact your nearest WorkBC Centre.

Apply Now

YWCA Discover

Contact: discover@ywcabc.org
Office Hours: Monday to Friday | 9:00 am – 5:00 pm