Carlton Trail College (CTC) is set to benefit from the Canada-Saskatchewan Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care Agreement, receiving substantial funding aimed at supporting early childhood educator (ECE) training.
Over the next two years, more than $35 million will be allocated to deliver tuition-free ECE training, along with professional development and financial support for students. Specifically, Carlton Trail College will offer 30 tuition-free spots for students in their ECE programs this year, with an additional 15 spots available next year.
“The best part is that students won’t have to pay for tuition or books, and they’ll receive a training allowance for attending classes daily,” said Deanna Gaetz, CTC’s Business and Skills Training Manager. “With the rising cost of living, anything that helps students afford their education is a great advantage. Our program schedules also allow students to work part-time, especially in daycare settings.”
The training spots will be available in Punnichy and Humboldt, with 15 spots each, beginning in the 2024/25 academic year. An additional 15 spots will open in Wakaw in the 2025/26 academic year. Punnichy and Wakaw will offer an Early Childhood Education Certificate of Achievement program, while Humboldt will provide a full-time diploma program.
“There’s a daycare seat shortage across the province. In our region alone, approximately 300 new daycare seats have been added in the last three years,” Gaetz noted. “New daycares are opening, and existing ones are expanding, creating a higher demand for trained and skilled workers. Our mandate is to meet the employment needs of our region. We expect an increase in applicants as students learn that some financial burdens are being lifted.”
While individuals can be hired at licensed daycares without formal training, their working hours are limited. With additional training, there are also opportunities for higher wages. Carlton Trail College’s programs include work placement opportunities and requirements, providing practical experience alongside education.