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Early Childhood Education Post Basic (Special Needs Specialization)

Diploma 18 weeks

The Early Childhood Education Post Basic (Special Needs Specialization) program is an extension to the ECE program. These courses are for students who are certified as an Early Childhood Educator or are in the process of completing the required hours of work experience. The advanced courses lead to a licence to practice as a Special Needs Educator.

In this program, students will learn how to work with children through a variety of hands-on training that combines theory and practice. The program covers advanced child growth and development, foundations of working with children with learning, intellectual, or physical disabilities, advanced health, safety, and nutrition, program planning, and more.

In order to specialize, students must complete a practicum placement in a special needs setting to develop and implement comprehensive projects that demonstrate their advanced knowledge as well as gain practical experience.

Students must complete observation assignments that will take place in real-world childcare settings, which will be used to complete assignments. These observation hours are required by the Ministry of Children & Family Development.


This program has been approved by the registrar of the Private Training Institutions Branch (PTIB) of the Ministry of Advanced Education, Skills and Training.


Individuals who have successfully completed early childhood training through a recognized educational institution in British Columbia may apply to the BC Early Childhood Educator Registry for certification as a Special Needs Educator (SNE). Contact the Early Childhood Educator Registry for details of the application process at 1.888.338.6622 or visit their website.

Campus Availability

This program is approved to be offered at the following campuses. Please contact the campus of your choosing for program availability.

Delivery Mode

The program is approved to be delivered in the following methods.

  • In person (On Campus)

My instructor is always available and she is totally devoted to her job. I had a warm welcome when I started and I was able to integrate well. The staff is dedicated and thoughtful.

Marylou T., Early Childhood Education Graduate
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