Kara Rafuse finds her passion in early childhood education
For Kara Rafuse, the path to a career in early childhood education began with curiosity and a love for children
“I’ve had a passion and love for children since I became an auntie,” she says. “But it really sparked when I had my own children.”
As a mother of three, Kara became fascinated by how children learn, grow and connect with the world around them. She completed her Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) diploma at VIU in April 2025 and quickly found work in her field.
Becoming an educator feels like something she was meant to do.
“It allows me to slow down and see the world through a child’s eyes,” she says. “Each day reminds me that children are our greatest teachers.”
Kara enrolled in the program at VIU after a friend who had also taken the program recommended it to her. She completed her entire diploma online, which allowed her to balance school, parenting and other responsibilities. The online format also gave her the chance to hear a wide range of perspectives from classmates across the province.
She now works as a lead early childhood educator at a forest school cooperative in Nanaimo. Monday to Thursday, she works with children aged three to six and on Fridays, she works with children aged six to 12.
Instructor Ocean Kneeland says the online diploma was designed with flexibility in mind for students like Kara.
“It supports students who are raising children, working or living in rural and remote communities,” she says. “They can get a quality education while staying connected to the places and people they care about.”
For those who don’t want to do their entire education online, VIU offers an in-person diploma program that supports both local and international students. VIU also provides a work-based practicum option for those who qualify, where students complete most of their practicum hours – around 565 out of the required 825 – in actual workplace settings with the supervisor and mentorship of VIU instructors.
“It’s a powerful way for students to gain real experience while they learn,” says Ocean.
Because early childhood educators are in short supply in BC, the province has created a bursary program and eligible students can access up to $500 per course, to a maximum of $4,000 per year, to help pay for their studies.
Students who complete the ECEC diploma at VIU can also ladder into related degree programs such as education, child and youth care or social work.
Graduates of VIU’s diploma program are well-prepared for the workforce, Ocean says, adding that “every VIU graduate I know who wants to work in the field has employment.”
Looking ahead, Kara is excited about the growing interest in outdoor education. She hopes to continue learning and advocating for nature-based programs.
“I want to help more families and communities understand the value of this approach. It supports the well-being of both children and the Earth.”
For those thinking about entering this field, Kara has some advice: “Stay curious. Keep learning. This work is so meaningful. Being part of a child’s growth is a beautiful privilege.”
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