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your ece journey

College of ECE

About the College of ECE

In order to call yourself an ECE and to practice as an ECE in Ontario, you have to apply to be a member of the College of Early Childhood Education (College of ECE). If your application is approved, you will have professional status as a member of the College and be able to use the designation of RECE.   

To learn more about the College of ECE, we are pleased to share the following information, with thanks to the College of ECE for creating it exclusively for the CCCF.

The College of Early Childhood Educators (the “College”) regulates the early childhood education profession in Ontario in the public interest. Since 2009, early childhood educators have been required to be members to practise in the province. Our role and authority are set out in the Early Childhood Educators Act, 2007.

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Building and Maintaining Trust in the Profession

The training, knowledge and competencies of RECEs are distinct and unique from other professions. By establishing entry-to-practice requirements, enforcing the Code and Standards and requiring continuous professional learning of members, the College works to fulfil its vision: Leadership in early learning and care by trusted, accountable professionals (RECEs).

The College sets the bar for professionalism and leadership in the sector. RECEs self-regulate to meet those standards as they educate and care for Ontario’s youngest learners.

What the College OF ECE does:

Registration and Admission

In order to become a member of the College, you must meet strict entrance criteria. If you wish to practise in the profession within Ontario and use the designated title of Registered Early Childhood Educator (RECE), Early Childhood Educator (ECE) or their French equivalents, you must register.

The Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice (Code and Standards) sets the knowledge, skills, values and expectations that are expected of all RECEs. As professionals, RECEs are required to act with integrity while adhering to the Code and Standards at all times within their workplace and community.

RECEs must comply with the Continuous Professional Learning (CPL) program. The College develops this program and resources to enhance members’ understanding of the Code and Standards. CPL promotes accountability, leadership and professionalism.

The College is responsible for responding to concerns and to investigate complaints from members of the public about RECEs. If necessary, cases are referred to in the Discipline Committee.

To learn more about the College of ECE:

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Supporter membership rate $45 CAD. Join now!

Annual Membership rate $0 CAD with the code from your local affiliate. Join now!

Anyone working in licensed child care has to apply for certification. You will find certification information for your province or territory on our child care certification page.

With your resume and cover letter ready (we’ll provide guides for this soon), contact child care centres and introduce yourself! You can call, email, or even message them on social media. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t get a reply. Try again a few days later to give them your resume in person. Remember that due to safety reasons you need to call first. Tell them you live in their area, and that you’re looking for a position.

On our provincial and territorial map we link to child care associations in your area. Follow the link to your association and join today. The associations provide valuable information to anyone starting out in their career. Even experienced ECEs can benefit. You’ll also enjoy valuable member benefits like discounts, meet other ECEs, and become a part of the child care movement in Canada.


If you join your provincial or territorial affiliate, you’re automatically also a member of the CCCF.

All licensed and regulated quality child care programs in Canada require these for the safety and security of children and families.

If you’re just starting out:

  1. Get certified!
  2. Find the requirements for your province or territory
  3. Write your resume and begin your job search. We’ll provide tips on this soon. 
  4. Get your vulnerable sector check and first aid training

Join our Facebook Group and meet other ECEs who may be able to answer your questions

Early Childhood Educators (ECEs) are incredible professionals that have rewarding, important and demanding careers. They work with young children (and their families), ages 0-12, nurturing and educating them, observing and planning for their growth and development while ensuring that they are healthy. They create interactive and dynamic learning environments where children develop social skills, develop cognitive skills and foster lifelong learning. ECEs work in child care centres, classrooms, home child cares, preschool, and parent drop-in programs. You do not need a teaching degree to be an ECE, but you do need your ECE diploma.

Annual Membership rate $90 CAD.
Join now!

Annual Membership rate $65 CAD.
Join now!

Annual Membership rate $65 CAD.
Join now!

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