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Frequently Asked Questions

I am classified as an ECE in another Canadian province or territory. What do I do to become classified in Manitoba?

Contact the Early Learning and Child Care Program.

Can I become classified if I do NOT live in Canada?

No. You must have a Canadian address to receive a classification certificate.

Can I begin the classification process from my home country?

Yes. Take these steps to accelerate the classification process:

  • Ensure you have detailed information about your education, including a syllabus, your transcripts (score reports), and original diploma or degree.
  • Complete a credentials assessment. You must use a Canadian agency. A list of Canadian agencies can be found at Alliance of Credential Evaluation Services of Canada (ACESC). The recommended agency is International Qualifications Assessment Service (IQAS).

Do I need a letter from the Early Learning and Child Care Program in order to immigrate through the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP)?

No. MPNP does not require a letter from the Early Learning and Child Care Program.

Can I apply for classification if my required documents are NOT in English or French?

No. Your required documents must be translated into English or French and notarized.

Where do I obtain translation services?

  The Immigrant Centre in Winnipeg provides referrals to cost-effective translation services. Phone: 204-943-9158

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How do I obtain a notarized copy of my translated transcripts?

Your transcript must be signed and stamped by a qualified person such as a notary public or commissioner of oaths. The Immigrant Centre provides free notary public services for permanent Manitoba residents who have been in Canada less than three years. Phone: 204-943-9158.

I am worried about sending my original transcripts through the mail. Do I have other options?

Yes, you can go in person to the Early Learning and Child Care Program office at 114 Garry Street, Winnipeg (1st floor reception area). The classification staff will photocopy your transcripts while you wait.

exclaimation mark icon If you choose to mail original documents, including transcripts, the Early Learning and Child Care Program will return them to you.  
   

How long is the classification process?

The process can take anywhere from 4 weeks to 6 months, depending upon whether you require a credentials assessment. Visit the agency websites for wait times. A list of Canadian agencies can be found at Alliance of Credential Evaluation Services of Canada (ACESC).

Are there any fees required for the classification process?

The Early Learning and Child Care Program will process your ECE application for free. However, there is a fee for a credentials assessment, if you need one.  Visit the agency websites for fees. Keep your receipt. It may be possible to get a reimbursement of the credential assessment fees in the future. A list of Canadian agencies can be found at Alliance of Credential Evaluation Services of Canada (ACESC).

What happens if I do NOT qualify for an ECE classification?

The Early Learning and Child Care Program will classify you as a CCA. The Early Learning and Child Care Program will mail you a CCA classification certificate, as well as a letter that explains why you do not qualify for classification as an ECE.  

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Are there any English language requirements for child care workers in Manitoba?

There are no English language requirements for classification.

However, to be eligible for one of the PLA program streams, it is recommended to have a Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) of Level 7 or higher in all four skills (speaking, listening, reading and writing) in English.

How do I determine my Canadian Language Benchmark level?

Contact Manitoba START. Manitoba START can arrange a free Canadian Language Benchmark Placement Test (CLB-PT) at the Winnipeg English Language Assessment and Referral Centre (WELARC). The test will determine your CLB level. If your English needs improvement, WELARC may refer you to a free English class.

ManitobaStart.com
Phone: 204-944-8830

You may also contact WELARC directly:
WELARC.net
Phone: 204-943-5387

Note: In the application process for one of the PLA programs, you can submit a previous CLB Level.  It is not required to have a new test completed. You may be required to complete a language assessment through the ELCC Program as part of the application process.

How do I access the Manitoba education programs available for internationally educated child care workers (PLA)?

The Early Learning and Child Care Program may advise you to apply for a program following review of your ECE application. You may also contact the Early Learning and Child Care Program to find out if you are eligible to apply.

I have been classified as a CCA. How do I complete my 40 hours of approved child care training within the first year of employment?

 

Check with your employer to see if a course you have taken in the last 8 years can be approved for the 40 hour course. There are many options available to fulfill the 40-hour training requirement. Consult with your employer to learn about your options. The document below has a list of post-secondary institutions that offer early childhood education training, as well as a list of suggested courses.

Forty Hour Course Options for Child Care Assistants and Family Child Care Providers

How do I complete a Criminal Record check and Child Abuse Registry check?

You must complete a Criminal Record check and a Child Abuse Registry check upon employment. Once you are employed, your employer will initiate these checks for you.

I’m not sure if my education qualifies for an ECE. Where can I find information about courses available in Manitoba?

Contact the Early Learning and Child Care Program or refer to the following document:

pdf icon Information on the Classification of ECEs and CCAs PDF

Is my Montessori diploma equal to an ECE II?

No. Montessori education focuses on only one model of early learning and child care and does not meet the Manitoba standards for an early childhood education program. Therefore, you would be classified as a CCA.

If your Montessori diploma was obtained over two years fulltime, and you work for two years in a licensed Manitoba child care centre, you may become eligible to apply for the Early Childhood Educator (ECE) II Assessment ProgramThis program will allow you to upgrade to an ECE II classification.

Is my Bachelor of Elementary Education equal to an ECE II?

No, a Bachelor of Education focuses mainly on children aged five years and older. An ECE II classification requires an educational background that focuses on developmental theories and practices related to children primarily in the 0 – 5 year age group. Therefore, you would be classified as a CCA.

If you work for one year as a CCA in a licensed Manitoba child care centre, you may become eligible to apply for the Early Childhood Educator (ECE) II Assessment Program. This program will allow you to upgrade to an ECE II classification.

Does my Bachelor of Elementary Education qualify me to be a teacher in Manitoba?

If you are looking to become certified as a teacher in the school system, please refer to Manitoba Education and Training.

Early Learning and Child Care Program 210-114 Garry Street, Winnipeg MB R3C 4V4

Email: cdcinfo@gov.mb.ca

Phone: 204-945-0776 Toll-free: 1-888-213-4754 Fax: 204-948-2625 TTY: 204-945-3724

Hours: Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m