Early Childhood Leadership is a four-year baccalaureate program that prepares graduates to guide and lead curriculum and pedagogy in Ontario’s early childhood settings. Throughout the four-year program, the academic pillars are grounded in two major fields where applicants have the opportunity to explore theory and research: 1) Human Development This field adopts a life-course perspective that incorporates: developmental psychology population health neurobiology sociology anthropology Multiple perspectives on the context of children’s lives and their early learning and development into adulthood create a knowledge base for early childhood research, policy and practice. Students have opportunities to consider and generate research across disciplines that supports leadership for quality early childhood programs. 2) Teaching and Learning This field includes many dimensions of pedagogical and curriculum leadership in early childhood programs. A thorough overview of curriculum planning and design is the foundation for the development of early childhood program leadership capacity. The areas of focus across the four years are as follows: YEAR 1: Understanding Children, Early Childhood Programs and Foundation Professional Skills YEAR 2: Evidence-based Understanding and Curriculum and Infrastructure Design YEAR 3: Leadership for Quality Skills and Professional Specialization YEAR 4: Advanced Inquiry and Preparation for the Workforce or Further Study This program is delivered in an applied learning environment. Case studies, demonstrations and practice opportunities are integral to most courses.

Graduates may find work in a variety of early childhood settings, including: child care centres full day kindergarten nursery schools family drop-in programs (including Ontario Early Years Centres, parenting centres and family resource programs) other family support programs early intervention services Emerging Best Start Child and Family Centres will be integrated with existing early childhood programs and graduates will be well-positioned to assume leadership positions within these centres. Previous graduates who wished to continue their education have successfully gained admission to notable universities, where they’ve furthered their studies at the masters level and/or the faculty of education.