GASPÉ – After being suspended since 2020, the Early Childhood Education program at Cégep de la Gaspésie et des Îles’ Gaspé campus will restart in the fall of 2025, aiming to address a growing shortage of educators.
To draw more candidates to the program, the college has introduced new incentives, including paid internships and job integration opportunities. These include part-time work placements at Gaspé’s two Centres de la petite enfance (CPE), which have partnered with the CEGEP to enhance the program.
“We were inspired by other CEGEPs that introduced paid internships. We took it a step further by asking the CPEs if we could also integrate students with part-time jobs right away, and they agreed. So, students will have both paid internships and employment access,” explained Serge Rochon, Director of Studies at Cégep de la Gaspésie et des Îles.
The demand for early childhood educators is pressing, according to Mr. Rochon. Graduates of the program will be trained to work in childcare centers as well as school daycare services.
The college plans to launch a wide-reaching advertising campaign, targeting not only the Gaspé region but also the entire province and international markets.
In consultations with prospective students, many expressed interest in the program. “We believe there are students who may want to study in Gaspé. Quebec students, through the Parcours bursary program, can receive up to $22,500 over three years if they relocate more than 60 kilometers from home. This could appeal to students from areas like the Bay of Chaleur,” Mr. Rochon noted.
With paid internships, part-time work, and scholarships, most of the costs associated with studying in Gaspé could be offset for students.
There is also a possibility that the program could be relocated if necessary. “The teaching team prefers to keep the program based in Gaspé, as it simplifies course organization. However, relocating to other campuses is something we’re considering,” added Mr. Rochon.
The local childcare sector is eager to partner with the CEGEP. “We are thrilled to work with Cégep de la Gaspésie et des Îles on creating a unique program that will attract young people to the field,” said Mylène Côté, director of CPE Les Butineurs.
Gilles Chapados, director of CPE Le voyage de mon enfance, also expressed support. “The new program format will allow future childcare providers to apply their learning quickly while earning money. It’s a win-win situation,” he said.
To officially relaunch the program, the CEGEP needs at least seven students to enroll by the March 1, 2025, admissions deadline. Classes will begin in the fall of 2025.
Related Topics: