The Early Childhood Education program at Heritage College has opened many doors for me both on the job market and in my academic persuits. The program is a good mix of the theoretical and applied aspects of child development, child care best practices, and an understanding of various curriculums and teaching models. These aspects, and many more, provide a strong foundation for the start of a career working with children or an academic path in education, psychology and many other fields of study.

I remember my time at CÉGEP Heritage College with fondness and warmth. The Early Childhood Education faculty is comprised of knowledgeable, responsive, and inspirational leaders, which resulted in continuous support throughout my journey in Early Childhood Education. With their guidance and expertise, I developed the confidence, insight and skills set to become a strong educator and advocate for children. After graduation, I was inspired to pursue further studies in child development and education: I earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Child Studies from Carleton University and a Master of Education in Studies of Teaching and Learning from the University of Ottawa. My Heritage experience allowed me to connect with a strong community of educational professionals; I had the opportunity to sit on College’s Board of Governors, I had the pleasure of supervising early childhood students on placement with Algonquin College and CÉGEP Heritage College, as well as teaching in the latter’s Continuing Education department! The doors that I open challenge my grit as a lifelong learner, and I am grateful to Heritage and the Early Childhood Education faculty for their continued support (even to this day!) in my endeavours.  

I support early learning and child development for vulnerable clients at various independent non-profit Early Childhood Centers and as a supply shelter caregiver within six different women's  shelters, as well as working within kindergarten classrooms in before and after school programming within the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board. Heritage provided a warm, welcoming environment with incredible supportive staff who went above and beyond to ensure their student’s success. The small class sizes allowed me to develop close relationships and to work closely with my peers. I credit the support and investment of so many at Heritage to both my continued professional and academic success. Heritage is a truly caring community, and a very special place. Having an experience at another academic institution similar to the one you would have at Heritage elsewhere is not very likely. Going to Heritage is the greatest post-secondary foundation you could ask for to set yourself up for future professional and academic successes.