If you work with young children in a daycare, preschool or early learning program, your NOC code is most likely NOC 42202, Early childhood educators and assistants. It is a TEER 2 occupation.
Who is under 42202
The same unit group covers both levels of the job:
- Early childhood educators (ECE, RECE) who plan and run child-care programs, assess children's needs, talk with parents and may supervise other staff
- Early childhood assistants (ECA, ECEA) who support educators, lead activities, help with eating, dressing and toilet habits, and write observations
Example titles include daycare worker, daycare supervisor, early childhood educator (preschool), early childhood assistant, preschool helper, preschool supervisor and child care worker (daycare).
Codes people confuse with 42202
| Job | NOC code | TEER |
|---|---|---|
| ECE, ECA, RECE, daycare worker | 42202 | 2 |
| Educational assistant, teacher assistant (schools) | 43100 | 3 |
| Elementary school or kindergarten teacher | 41221 | 1 |
| Nanny, babysitter, child care provider in a private home | 44100 | 4 |
| Child and youth worker | 42201 | 2 |
The workplace matters. A person who cares for children in a family's home is usually 44100, not 42202, even if they hold an ECE diploma.
42202 and PR
- Express Entry: TEER 2 counts for FSW and CEC.
- Education category: 42202 is on IRCC's education category list (checked 2026-10-16), together with 41220, 41221, 42203 and 43100.
- Provincial programs: several provinces have targeted early childhood educators. Many require provincial certification, such as registration with the College of Early Childhood Educators in Ontario.
Your reference letter should show that you planned and led activities, assessed or observed children, and kept a safe environment, not just that you "worked at a daycare". See how to write the letter.
Common questions
What is the NOC code for an early childhood educator?
NOC 42202, Early childhood educators and assistants. It is TEER 2.
Do early childhood assistants use the same code as ECEs?
Yes. NOC 2021 puts early childhood educators and early childhood assistants in the same unit group, 42202.
Is NOC 42202 eligible for Express Entry?
Yes. TEER 2 counts for the Federal Skilled Worker Program and the Canadian Experience Class, and 42202 is on IRCC's education category list as of 2026-10-16.
Is an educational assistant the same code as an ECE?
No. Educational assistants and teacher assistants in elementary and secondary schools use NOC 43100 (TEER 3).