Certificate in Education Assistant

The Education Assistant (EA) certificate prepares learners to work in the field of education. Education Assistants work under the supervision of classroom or resource teachers to support learners with exceptionalities and challenges in elementary and secondary education settings. The program builds the knowledge and skills learners need to work as part of an educational team, supporting the integration and education of learners with exceptionalities and challenges into a regular school classroom. Additionally, the program includes an Indigenized curriculum. It studies the definition of colonization and the effects of colonization on Indigenous education realities in Canada and B.C. Special emphasis is placed on Indigenous family and community-based parenting models and practices, and the effects of colonialism on Indigenous parenting and parentfamilycommunity relationships with schools. Building pathways to create trusting, meaningful relationships with Indigenous learners, their families, and communities is a core part of the curriculum. Successful graduates earn a certificate in the Education Assistant Program. Graduates are qualified to apply for work as an Education Assistant in British Columbia school districts and apply for work at community-based support services agencies or private educational institutions.

English Studies 10 or English First Peoples 10 (or equivalent). Two references from an employer, volunteer supervisor, teacher or educational professional, attesting to the applicant's personal suitability to work with students with exceptionalities (written, recorded, or via reference check). Letter of Introduction (written or recorded personal statement, or orally presented through interview). Coordinator or designate (e.g. faculty) reviews application package.