June 25, 2025 | Alberta

Alberta’s Early Childhood Educators’ (ECEs) future is booming. With the province’s commitment to creating up to 68,700 new licensed childcare spaces by 2026 under the $3.8 billion federal-provincial agreement, the demand for qualified educators has never been higher.  
 
At the heart of this workforce are Level 2 Early Childhood Educators (ECEs) — professionals equipped with specialized training to shape young minds. If you’re considering a career in this rewarding field, here’s exactly what Level 2 certification means and how to achieve it. 
 

Alberta’s ECE Certification System: A Three-Tiered Pathway 
 

Alberta’s certification system ensures educators meet rigorous standards through progressive tiers: 
 

 
Level 2 certification is the mandatory qualification for lead educators in licensed Alberta facilities. It empowers you to independently guide children’s development while meeting provincial quality standards. 
 
Bonus Read: Understanding Early Childhood Education in Alberta 

 
Why Level 2 Certification Matters 
 

Level 2 certification isn’t just a credential—it’s Alberta’s legally mandated qualification for lead educators in licensed childcare settings. While Level 1 assistants support classrooms, Level 2 professionals drive them. This distinction unlocks three transformative advantages: 

 
1. Leadership & Autonomy 

As a Level 2 ECE, you gain legal authority to:
 

• Design curricula using Flight: Alberta’s Early Learning Framework—the province’s play-based pedagogy standard. 
• Mentor Level 1 staff and lead parent collaborations. 
• Make critical decisions on child development plans without supervisor oversight. 
   

2. Employment  Opportunity 
 

According to jobbank.gov.2024, the employment outlook will be “Very Good” for Early Childhood Educators and Assistants (NOC 42202) in Alberta. 
 

• Job Security: The Alberta government's Budget 2024 outlines $1.5 billion for child-care services, to create more child-care spaces, lower fees, and to support service providers. Budget 2024 also includes $24 million over 3 years for new private schools and Early Childhood Services operators. 
• $10/Day Childcare Access: Facilities require Level 2+ staff to qualify for Alberta’s affordable childcare subsidies. 
   

3. Professional Versatility & Career Mobility 
 

Level 2 certification uniquely qualifies you to: 
 

• Work Across Settings: Daycares, preschools, family day homes, out-of-school care, and kindergarten classrooms. 
• Specialize: Pursue infant/toddler roles or inclusive education pathways. 
   

Pathways to Level 2 Certification: Education and Training 
 

To become a Level 2 ECE, you must complete a government-approved 1-year Early Learning and Child Care (ELCC) certificate program combining theory, skills labs, and supervised practicums. Key components include: 
 

1. Approved Education Programs 

 
Core Coursework 

• child development theories  
• inclusive programming  
• health/safety protocols  
• Indigenous perspectives  
• Play-based learning frameworks like Flight: Alberta’s Early Learning and Care Framework. 
   

CDI Highlight 
 

CDI College’s 40-week Early Learning and Child Care Certificate Program features a specialized 15-course curriculum, including: 
 

• Creative Expression in Early Learning: Focuses on nonverbal development through music, art, and movement  
• Infants and Toddlers (0–36 months): Covers neuroscience-based caregiving and developmental milestones  
• Guiding Child Behaviour: Emphasizes conflict resolution and positive classroom management 
• Flight Framework Integration: Explicitly covered in Introduction to Program Planning 
• Inclusive Practices: Woven throughout courses (e.g., Communication & Stress Management covers multicultural environments) 

2. Real-World Practicum Experience 

Hands-on training is non-negotiable for ECE certification—it transforms theory into practice. In Alberta, supervised practicum hours validate your readiness to lead classrooms, with most Level 2 programs requiring practicum hours in licensed settings.  

CDI Highlight 
 

CDI requirement: 380 practicum hours + 20-hour seminar: 
 

Field Placement I  

• 380 hours at student’s workplace (or CDI-arranged site) 
• Competency-based evaluation by certified ECEs + faculty 
• Activity planning and behavior observation 
   

Introductory Seminar  

• 20-hour prep covering licensing compliance and ethics 

 
3. Additional Requirements 
 

Provincial & Institutional Requirements
 

• Language Proficiency: Non-English education graduates need IELTS 6.0+ or CELPIP 7+  
• High School Prerequisites: English 30-1/30-2 (minimum 55%–65%) or GED Language Arts 520+ 
• Security Checks: Valid Police Information Check with Vulnerable Sector Search (PIC/VSS) before practicum  
• Health: Immunization records 

CDI Highlight
 

• Mature Admissions: Open to applicants aged 19+ without high school diplomas via the CDI College Admissions Test 
• Career-Ready Documentation: PIC/VSS will be submitted during the program. 

 
The Certification Process: From Classroom to Credential 

After completing your program: 

• Apply Online: Submit the ECE Certification Application via your Alberta.ca Account. 
• Send Transcripts: Request your institution mail official transcripts to the Alberta Child Care Staff Certification Office. 
• Wait for Assessment: Processing takes 4–6 weeks. Once approved, your certificate (with unique ID) is downloadable. 

 
Career Opportunities with Level 2 Certification 

 
Level 2 certification positions you for roles like: 
 

• Early Childhood Educator (daycares/preschools) 
• Out-of-School Care Coordinator 
• Family Day Home Provider 
• Educational Assistant (kindergartens) 

Final Thoughts: Shape Futures as an Early Childhood Educator 

 
Imagine guiding children’s first discoveries—where planting seeds or blowing bubbles becomes learning magic. This rewarding career is within reach. 
 

Alberta needs passionate educators like you. CDI College’s Early Learning and Child Care Certificate prepares you in just 40 weeks. You’ll gain hands-on skills in real childcare settings, learning to nurture development through play and create inclusive spaces where every child thrives. 

You’ll lead classrooms in daycares, preschools, or family homes—becoming the teacher who spots hidden talents and the steady presence parents trust. Some days challenge you, but this career rewards with moments; money can’t buy: a toddler’s proud “I did it!”, a shy child’s first friendship, knowing you gave a young mind courage to explore!