On October 21, 2021, Ontario celebrates Child Care Worker and Early Childhood Educator Appreciation Day to recognize the dedication and expertise of child care professionals and their commitment to the well-being and healthy development of children.

In Oxford County, early childhood educators (ECEs) work in child care centres, school programs, EarlyON programs and licensed home child care settings, making a positive and lasting impact on children and their families. They are a crucial ingredient in boosting licensed child care spaces in Oxford County and essential to the economic recovery from COVID-19, supporting parents as they return to the workforce.

Recruiting more ECEs in Oxford is vital to ensuring that high-quality child care is accessible and sustainable in the area. That’s why Oxford County is working with Fanshawe College's Woodstock/Oxford Regional Campus to boost enrolment in the Early Childhood Education program. Upon graduation, students have the knowledge and skills to work in early learning and development programs for children from birth to age 12.

Financial support is available to help cover tuition costs. Students can apply for the ECE Education Grant, scholarships through Fanshawe College, and the Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP). There is also a Leadership Certification Grant for ECEs who wish to continue their education and aspire to become supervisors in early childhood education.

The ECE recruitment campaign from Oxford County and Fanshawe College will launch in November with a video featuring local ECE professionals and current students. The campaign will highlight the rewarding benefits of working in early childhood education and the plentiful employment opportunities available locally.

For more information about the Early Childhood Education program at Fanshawe College visit fanshawec.ca. For information about licensed child care in Oxford County, visit www.oxfordcounty.ca/childcare.

Comment

Lynda Bartlett, Manager of Human Services, Oxford County
“Thank you to all child care workers and registered early childhood educators for the valuable contribution you make to our youngest citizens. You provide a strong foundation and support their early growth and development. Your role has become even more important during these uncertain and challenging times.

Jennifer McLean, Associate Dean, Fanshawe College Woodstock/Oxford Regional Campus
“We are proud to work with our partners in Oxford County to help promote both the career choice and our unique program at the Woodstock/Oxford Regional Campus. Our program blends both theory and coursework with real experience in the field to prepare our students for this valuable and in-demand career.”

Social media and online content

Twitter: Oxford County | Fanshawe Woodstock
Facebook: Oxford County | Fanshawe College Woodstock/Oxford Regional Campus
Instagram: OxfordCoutyCA | fanshawewdsk
Website: www.oxfordcounty.ca/newsroom | www.fanshawec.ca/woodstock

About Oxford County

Located in the heart of southwestern Ontario at the crossroads of Highways 401 and 403, Oxford County has a population of approximately 123,000 people across eight area municipalities that are “growing stronger together.” As a partnership-oriented, two-tier municipal government, Oxford County is emerging as a leader in sustainable growth through the Future Oxford Community Sustainability Plan and County Council’s commitment to achieving 100% renewable energy, becoming a zero waste community and working towards zero poverty. Situated in one of Ontario’s richest areas for farmland, agriculture is a key industry that is driving innovation in sustainable industries and diversifying the local economy. Oxford County offers a thriving local arts, culture and culinary community, as well as conservation parks, natural areas and more than 100 kilometres of scenic trails. The Oxford County Administration Building is located in Woodstock, Ontario. Visit www.oxfordcounty.ca or follow our social media sites at www.oxfordcounty.ca/social. Oxford County’s Strategic Plan is at oxfordcounty.ca/strategicplan.

About Fanshawe College Woodstock/Oxford Regional Campus

Fanshawe's Woodstock/Oxford Regional Campus is situated on 50 acres of beautifully landscaped property that is conveniently located at the forks of Highways 401 and 403. The campus is part of the Woodstock District Community Complex,which also houses Goff Community Hall, a gymnastics centre, two arenas, a figure skating club and food services. They also have another location in the heart of downtown Woodstock to serve the community. Training and education are offered in the fields of business, computers, health care, management, manufacturing and academic upgrading. The campus prides itself on providing training which meets the local employment needs of the community.