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Academic PS Calendar (pdf)

Academic Program Calendar - 2011-2012
Postsecondary Academic Program Calendar - 2011-2012 (ALL)(PDF)
NOTE: Also individual program (PDF's) - downloadable from postsecondary program homepages.

Community Services - Educational Assistant

2-year, Ontario College Diploma Program

Official Program Information

Educational Assistant - photo banner

The Educational Assistant program is designed to prepare you to work in an ethical and professional manner, as a member of a multi-disciplinary team in a variety of educational settings.

Throughout this two-year program, you will learn the strategies and techniques for implementing the education plan (IEP) and for assisting children with personal care and life skills. You will gain knowledge and skills in using specialized equipment and learn how to create safe learning environments for children with diverse abilities and backgrounds who experience cognitive, physical, social/ emotional and/or behavioural difficulties.

Practical experience through two field placements will enable you to apply the theory and knowledge learned in the classroom.

Employment Opportunities: 

Upon graduation, you can expect to find employment in elementary and secondary schools, as well as with social services and community agencies.

Career categories include prospective positions such as Educational Assistant, Special Education Assistant, Special Education Support Personnel, Communication Assistant, Library Assistant or Support Service Worker.

Admission Requirements: 
  1. Ontario Secondary School Diploma (or equivalent) with courses from the College (C), University (U), University/College (U/C), or Open (O) preparation levels.
  2. or successful completion of the Mature Student Assessment.
  3. or appropriate credits from the Academic and Career Entrance program (ACE).

Additional Courses Required: Grade 12 College or University Preparation English.

If you do not meet these admission requirements, we encourage you to consider the College Access or General Arts and Science Certificate or Diploma programs; if you successfully complete one of these programs, you will be eligible to apply to programs in the Community Services area.

Physical Demands: 

The Educational Assistant student must have the energy and stamina to respond to the physical and emotional demands associated with the role of the assistant.

Other Requirements: 

1. Personal computer with Internet access.

2. Student Medical Form

 

Prior to commencement of field placement the following is required:

1. Up-to-date Immunization including Two-step TB Skin Test

2. A current Criminal Reference Check (CRC) completed by Ontario Education Screening Corporation (OESC) (local CRC not acceptable). It is used by employers in this field as a screening requirement of field placement and employment. A criminal record may prevent you from participating in field placement experiences, thus blocking you from completing program requirements. All costs associated with the CRC, testing and proof of immunization certification are the responsibility of the applicant.

Program Continuation Criteria: 

Students are required to achieve a minimum of a "C" grade in all communication, computer, and core courses in order to proceed to the next semester. Many of the courses have co-requisites and pre-requisites. Students must complete all requirements for the first three semesters to be eligible for the final placement.

Selection Criteria: 

Candidates must have strong interpersonal skills as well as excellent communication skills. Strong math skills are required.

Departments:

how to apply

Do you have significant & relevant experience?

Ask about Prior Learning Assessment & Recognition (PLAR) - a mechanism to offer credits for learning acquired through study, work, volunteering and other life experiences that are not recognized through formal transfer credit mechanisms.