Department of Early Childhood Education

Early Childhood Education student studies in the child care centre

The Early Childhood Education Department prepares students to work with young children in a variety of inclusive early childhood environments. Students will acquire the knowledge, skills and attitudes necessary to work with children, families and the community in planning enriched programs in daycares, preschools, infant/toddler centres and other early childhood initiatives that focus upon healthy early development.

Explore our programs

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Early Childhood Education (ECE) Diploma
  • Kelowna, Vernon, Salmon Arm, Distance
  • Diploma
  • International students

Courses

Explore the courses offered within ECE programs at Okanagan College.

Instructors

Terri-Lynn Russell

Chair - Early Childhood Education
Office: HS Building 304
Campus: Kelowna
Phone: 250-762-5445 ext. 4387
Early Childhood Education - Terri Russell

I have worked in the childcare field since 1996. My work experience has included working in licensed family daycare, group daycare and preschool. I worked for over 10 years with children and families requiring extra support needs in our community. I have worked as an instructor in the ECE department at OC since 2017.

Credentials:
MSW, UBC Okanagan
BSW, UBC Okanagan
PIDP, VCC
ECE, UFV

Michelle Erridge

Early Childhood Education
Office: Main Building C345
Campus: Vernon
Phone: 250-545-7291 ext. 2212
Michelle Erridge staff profile picture

Barb Fay

Early Childhood Education
Campus: Kelowna

Heather Ross

Early Childhood Education
Office: HS Building 304
Campus: Kelowna
Phone: 250-762-5445 ext. 4319
Early Childhood Education - Heather Ross

Credentials:
MA, Applied Behavioral Science, Leadership Institute of Seattle
BA, Psychology, University of Waterloo
Diploma, ECE, Okanagan College

Andrea Thiessen

Early Childhood Education
Office: HS Building 304
Campus: Kelowna
Phone: 250-762-5445 ext. 2289
Early Childhood Education - Andrea Thiessen

Credentials:
MSc, Child and Family Studies, University of Southern Mississippi

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