Connecting to Licensure in Early Childhood Education (LECE) is a specialized program for internationally trained professionals with relevant work experience. If you have worked in either early childhood education (ECE) or a related field, this program offers a valuable pathway to continue your career in Ontario’s growing ECE sector.

The program supports participants in obtaining the licensure required to work as Registered Early Childhood Educators (RECEs) in Ontario and helps them transition smoothly into employment.

Click here to download the program flyer. 

  • Academic training from Northern College (online) and mandatory field placements (onsite)
  • Business communications and workplace culture training in a Canadian context
  • Future-skills training in creative problem solving, critical thinking, emotional intelligence, and resilience
  • One-to-one job search support from an employment consultant who is knowledgeable about the Canadian labour market and the ECE sector trends
  • Employer Connections – guest speakers, Speed Mentoring®, recruitment events
  • Earn an Ontario College Diploma and obtain sector licensure through a flexible, online program
  • Receive assistance and guidance in meeting employment requirements, including a Vulnerable Sector Check (VSC), immunization record, CPR and First Aid Level C certification
  • Benefit from coaching opportunities
  • Receive guidance to apply for licensure with the College of Early Childhood Educators (CECE)
  • A minimum of one year of work experience from outside Canada in the field or a related field
  • Post-secondary education from outside Canada
  • Minimum English language proficiency: Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level 7 or International English Language Testing System (IELTS) band 6 in all four skills
  • Permanent resident; naturalized Canadian citizen; approved provincial nominee under the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program; refugee; visitor under emergency travel measures
  • Must be a resident of Ontario to qualify for this province-wide bridge-to-work program
  • Ability to lift up to 45 lbs., bend and stoop, and sit cross-legged on the floor without assistance
  • November 2025 – October 2026

There is no fee associated with this program.