Licensed child-care centre wage scale increase

Press Release

March 9, 2026

The Department of Education’s Early Learning and Child Care (ELCC) division is increasing the ELCC Wage Scale Program rates by 3% starting April 1, 2026, to support recruitment and retention of staff in licensed child-care centres.

Through federal funding, the ELCC Wage Scale Program provides licensed child-care centres serving children ages 0-6 years contribution funding to top up staff wages to recommended levels – this ensures fair and competitive wages for their staff.

The wage scale applies to four categories of staff:

• Management
• Early childhood educators
• Program support
• Centre support

Licensed child-care centre staff play an essential role in shaping the educational foundation for Nunavut’s children and giving them a head start in life. That’s why the Government of Nunavut continues to prioritize investments that strengthen and support Nunavut’s ELCC sector.

This increase ensures wages keep pace with the cost of living and remain competitive with recent Government of Nunavut wage adjustments, while also supporting recruitment and retention efforts of licensed child-care centres.

For more information and licensed centre application details, visit the Government of Nunavut’s Wage Scale Program webpage.

Contact

John Manzo
Manager, Communications
Department of Education
867-975-5509
info.edu@gov.nu.ca

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