Education Assistant (Part-Time)

In the public school system, a movement away from segregated classrooms toward inclusive classrooms has resulted in dramatic changes in the ways students with disabilities are educated. In this framework, there is a need to provide Education Assistants with the theoretical and practical knowledge and experience that meets the individual needs of all children. An important goal of the Education Assistant program is to provide Langara College students with opportunities to become competent and employable educators.

The Role of the Education Assistant

Successful Education Assistants have an aptitude for working with adults and with children, are patient, interested in education and in learning, consider schools to be interesting and exciting places, and enjoy working in a world of rapidly changing ideas. The Education Assistant performs a variety of paraprofessional duties in the public school system:

• Works under the direction of teachers, administrators, or other professionals;
• Assists in the development and implementation of individualized or group communication skills, behavioural support, learning support, life-skills development, and work experience;
• Assists in the modification and adaptation of curriculum to meet the individual learning needs of students;
• Attends to and provides personal assistance to students who require assistance with toileting, positioning, diapering, mobility, feeding, grooming, and dressing;
• Transfers and assists students moving to/from wheelchairs, desks, and work areas;
• Supervises students in a variety of community-based activities;
• Attends and participates in school-based team meetings (and other meetings) as required by the support teachers or school administrators;
• Participates in parent-teacher meetings where required; and
• Performs other related work as required.

The Certificate in Education Assistant (Part-Time) is designed for students who are interested in obtaining a Certificate in Education Assistant, but cannot attend college on a full-time basis. The program can be completed in as few as six semesters, but students can take up to six years to complete the program. Like the full-time option, the program blends the study of theoretical principles with practical experience in the areas of learning, development, communication, curriculum, behaviour, personal care, and teamwork. Opportunities to apply theoretical material occur during two four-week, full-time practicum experiences. This field work is invaluable in exposing students to the realities of the job and to potential employers.