Education · 1 of 4

The path

A college diploma is the standard route. A degree helps for hospital, school and supervisor jobs.

1. 1

   High school

   Grade 12

   Grade 12 English is the usual requirement. Volunteer with kids: camps, coaching, tutoring, youth drop-ins.

2. 2

   College diploma

   2 to 3 years

   In Ontario the Child and Youth Care program is a 3-year advanced diploma. Other provinces run 2-year diplomas. Expect courses in child development, trauma, counselling and crisis intervention.

3. 3

   Field placements

   Built into the program

   Two or three unpaid placements in group homes, schools or hospitals. This is where most people get their first job offer.

4. 4

   Degree, if you want it

   2 more years

   Diploma grads can bridge into year three of the 4-year Child and Youth Care degree at TMU (Toronto Metropolitan University) or similar programs in other provinces.

5. 5

   Voluntary certification

   After a few years of work

   Register with your provincial association, such as the OACYC (Ontario Association of Child and Youth Care), or certify through the CYCCB (Child and Youth Care Certification Board), which needs a portfolio and a test.