Fanshawe and Oxford County Teaming up to Recruit More ECE's

Thursday, 21 October 2021 at 12:17

Oxford County has a real ECE shortage with long wait lists for spaces in licensed child care settings.

OXFORD COUNTY - Oxford County and Fanshawe College's Woodstock/Oxford Regional Campus are teaming up to boost local enrolment in Early Childhood Education.

Manager of Human Services Lynda Bartlett says we have an ECE shortage in the County.

"I think every childcare operation in Oxford County, is looking for qualified early child educators. We have a long wait list right now for spaces in licensed child care settings."

Financial support is available to help cover tuition costs. Students can apply for the ECE Education Grant, scholarships through Fanshawe College, and the Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP). There is also a Leadership Certification Grant for ECEs who wish to continue their education and aspire to become supervisors in early childhood education.

Bartlett says being an ECE is a rewarding career, it is not babysitting, you are helping the development of a child.

"Thank you to all child care workers and registered early childhood educators for the valuable contribution you make to our youngest citizens. You provide a strong foundation and support their early growth and development. Your role has become even more important during these uncertain and challenging times."

The County will work with Fanshawe in an effort to attract more people in the ECE program. They will start the recruitment campaign with a video coming out next week.

Associate Dean, of the Fanshawe College Woodstock/Oxford Regional Campus Jennifer McLean says they're happy to partner with the County.

"We are proud to work with our partners in Oxford County to help promote both the career choice and our unique program at the Woodstock/Oxford Regional Campus. Our program blends both theory and coursework with real experience in the field to prepare our students for this valuable and in-demand career."

Today is National is national Child Care Worker and Early Childhood Educator Appreciation Day.