Faculty Spotlight: Paula Avender, Early Childhood Care and Education

NIC Early Childhood Care and Education instructor, Paula Avender.

Paula Avender is one of many reasons to study early childhood care and education at NIC.

Prior to joining NIC as a sessional instructor, Paula was a community care facilities licensing officer, a family support worker and an early childhood educator. She holds a certificate in early childhood education, a degree in child and youth care and a masters of arts in counselling psychology.

“I am passionate about supporting students to understand the role they play in the lives of the children and families whom they work with,” she says. “My experience as a licensing officer also allows me to share how early childhood educators can promote the well-being of children and families through the use of provincial legislation.”

NIC is offering a new part-time option for students to earn their Early Childhood Care & Education certificate starting this January. Classes run evenings and weekends, making it the perfect option for those already working in the profession who want to upgrade their skills.

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Learn more about the Early Childhood Education Bursary Program, open to all ECCE students enrolled at NIC. Students are eligible to receive up to $4,000 in funding per semester. 

Learn more about the Workforce Development Bursary Fund for professionals working in the field who want to upgrade or complete their ECCE credentials. Up to $5,000 per semester is available for, but not limited to, tuition, books, tutoring, travel and occasional childcare costs.

Read the BC Government press release, outlining the funding opportunities and wage enhancements.