The Pre-diploma in Early Child Development (ECD) Facilitation is a 24-month technical program designed to prepare middle-level educators for roles as ECD Facilitators in settings such as Montessori schools, inclusive pre-schools, daycare centers, and home-based services across rural and urban Nepal.

The curriculum provides a foundation in Child Developmental Psychology, Learning Strategies, ECD Policy and Programs, Center Management, and Health, Nutrition, Safety, and Protection. It also integrates professional skills in Applied Communication, Computer Application, and Entrepreneurship Development.

The program follows a 3,880-hour apprenticeship model divided into two phases:

• Institute-based Training (1,280 hours): Includes a 15-week pre-training phase, weekly sessions during industrial practice, and a 4-week "Block Release" phase.
• Industry-based Training (2,600 hours/78 weeks): Hands-on experience focusing on the Integrated Thematic Approach and Parent-Community Partnership.

Guided by the Apprenticeship Training Operation Working Procedure, 2075 B.S., the program operates under a tripartite agreement between the apprentice, the sponsoring industry, and the training institute. It is a competency-based curriculum, with 80% of the duration dedicated to hands-on skill development and 20% to technical knowledge.

Selection for the program is based on a merit list of applicants who meet the entry qualifications. Candidates must pass an interview conducted jointly by the training institute and industry representatives. Final admission is determined by the aggregate marks of the entrance test and the interview.

Aim:
The aim of the program is to prepare middle-level competent early childhood development human resources as Early Childhood Development Facilitator in the early child development sub-sector of education to serve in Early Child Development centers, Day care centers, Home-based ECD service, Montessori, and other related inclusive Pre- schools in the rural and urban areas of Nepal.

Objectives:

The program has the following objectives:

1.  Operationalize ECD centers, preschools, and pre-primary schools effectively.
2. Develop front-line human resources in the field of early childhood education.
3. Prepare a competent middle-level ECD facilitator/educator.
4. Apply ECD policy and program efficiently as an implementer and supervisor.
5. Promote innovative practice in the sector of ECD, early childhood development ,and education.
6. Serve in the growing ECD service sector in the field of multisector programs.
7. Facilitate the establishment and management of well-equipped, safe, and quality ECD education.
8. Facilitate in strengthening holistic early childhood development activities.
9. Apply the National ECD strategic plan and program in collaboration with the local government.
10. Coordinate and share the report with stakeholders based on evidence.