The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador has issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) for a review of the certification process for early childhood educators.
The RFP is seeking a vendor to evaluate the current certification process for early childhood educators and propose recommendations to shift to a competency-based approach to certification. A high-quality early learning workforce is a key component to ensuring the affordability, inclusivity and quality of early learning and child care programming in Newfoundland and Labrador.
In August 2024, the Provincial Government released Newfoundland and Labrador’s Early Learning Action Plan 2024-2026. This action plan recommended a review and modernization of the early childhood educator certification process, and that prior learning assessments and work experiences be recognized by certification processes.
Information on tenders issued and awarded by the department and other public bodies is available by visiting www.merx.com/govnl. The closing date for proposals is February 13, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. NT.
This initiative is part of the $306 million being invested through the Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care Agreement. This agreement is increasing access to regulated child care through the creation of 5,895 spaces by March 2026.
Quotes
“The early learning workforce is a key part of ensuring children are receiving high-quality early learning and child care services. We have heard loud and clear that a review of the certification process for early childhood educators will support continued efforts to further professionalize the sector. Our government encourages vendors to submit a proposal for consideration in this review process.”
Honourable Krista Lynn Howell
Minister of Education
“Early childhood educators are at the cornerstone of the Canada-wide early learning and child care system, and we are committed to supporting a qualified workforce. I look forward to seeing the results from this review process.”
Honourable Jenna Sudds
Federal Minister of Families, Children and Social Development
“A strong certification process is key to enhancing the professionalism of early childhood educators and ensuring high-quality care for children and families. The Association of Early Childhood Educators Newfoundland and Labrador welcomes this review as an opportunity to support professional growth, modernize certification to align with current and future trends, and better meet the needs of educators, families, and communities.”
Skye Taylor
Association of Early Childhood Educators Newfoundland and Labrador
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Learn more
Medical Benefits Now Available for Early Learning Workforce
Provincial Government Seeking Expressions of Interest for Next Phase of Pre-Kindergarten Program
Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care Agreement
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