Collège Nordique supports the Government of the NWT's early childhood action plan

On November 18, 2024, the Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) announced significant changes to the certification requirements for early childhood educators (ECEs). These new measures aim to enhance this essential profession, a pillar of the well-being and prosperity of Northern communities. In response to this press release, Collège Nordique reaffirms its commitment to supporting these changes by offering adapted and accessible training and certification solutions.

Tailor-made training to meet the new requirements

With the evolution of the certification requirements, it is essential for Collège Nordique to offer accessible educational pathways, which consider the realities in which educators operate. These courses allow them to comply with the new standards while still working every day. Here are the details:

• Flexible programs: online and in-person classes to fit the schedules of those working (learn more about our Early Childhood Education program - in French)
• Recognition of prior learning: assessments that allow experienced educators to obtain their certification more quickly (learn more about the recognition of prior learning process - in French)
• A balance between theory and practice: training that combines academic learning and on-the-job experience

Valuing Northern expertise and Indigenous knowledge 

In collaboration with the GNWT, we are developing programs that reflect the realities of the Northwest Territories. We incorporate Indigenous knowledge unique to Northern regions, to provide an education rooted in the local culture. Our approach takes into account the needs of communities, aiming to train professionals capable of actively contributing to the development and vitality of their community. 

This vision is fully in line with Collège Nordique's mission: to support educational pathways while strengthening local communities and valuing the unique experiences of the North.

We translate this commitment into training courses such as:

• Gonàowoo Dehshe, which means "our way of life is grows" in Tłı̨chǫ Yatıı̀, which has equipped educators in the Northwest Territories to work towards reconciliation by learning about Tłı̨cho culture (learn more about Gonàowoo Dehshe) ;
• Our online course "Early Childhood Culture in Northern Canada" (in French) which takes into account the particularities of working in daycares in the Canadian territories, with a focus on Northern aspects.

Essential support for the transition

We understand that the new requirements can be a challenge for professionals in field, which is why Collège Nordique is committed to facilitating this transition by offering:

• Resources and personalized support to meet certification deadlines ;
• Accessible training to all thoses working in the early childhood sector ;

These efforts also contribute to the success of the Canada-wide $10-a-day childcare program, which aims to make early childhood education more affordable and accessible.

Investing in the future of the children of the NWT

By supporting the training of qualified educators, we are working to provide quality learning environments for children in the NWT. The success of the younger generations begins with competent and recognized professionals.

Collège Nordique is proud to support the educators of today and tomorrow on this journey to professional excellence.

Do you want to meet the new standards?

We invite educators and anyone aspiring to have a career in early childhood education to explore our customised programs. Together, we are building a skilled, resilient worforce that is ready to support the future of young people in the Northwest Territories.

To learn more about our certification programs and training options, contact us today or visit our website page below: