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Education Assistant Diploma

Western Community College > Programs > Education Assistant Diploma

Program Overview

This diploma program leads students to be members of an education team, supporting students with special and diverse learning needs from Kindergarten through Grade 12 in British Columbia schools. Education Assistants assist elementary and high school teachers as they work with students who may require additional support, such as those with intellectual challenges, special behavioral needs, and limited English.

Students also earn the following certificates in addition to the diploma:

  • UNIVERSAL DESIGN OF LEARNING ONLINE COURSE
  • SET BC SOLO6+ Essentials Online Course
  • SET BC Clicker 6 Online Course
  • SET BC Kurzweil3000v.12 Online Course
  • SET -BC Touch Chat Online Course
  • Picture Exchange Communication Systems Course
  • Board maker Online Course
  • American Sign Language Introduction Course
  • Training in Assisting with Medication
  • ASIST-Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training
  • SET BC Assistive Technology in classroom Course
  • SET BC Introduction to SMART notebook Course
Community support worker course empowering individuals to provide compassionate assistance and promote well-being within diverse communities
Contact our admissions team today or request information on upcoming program start dates.
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Request Program Information

Fill out the form below and one of our Student Admissions Advisors will get in touch with you to guide you through enrolling for this program and answer any questions you have.


Job Opportunities

This program prepares graduates for careers as education assistants in elementary or high schools. The career titles may be:

  • Education Assistant
  • Behavior Intervention Assistant
  • Special Needs Assistant

Wages

Earn up to $33.00* per hour as an Education Assistant
All wages taken from the Canada Job Bank

Program Admission Requirements

Grade 12 or Mature Student Status (19 years of age or more). Students will need to submit a proof of English Language Competency by any one of the following options:

Domestic Students:

  • Grade 10 English
  • English Language Proficiency Assessment Test conducted by the College

International Students:

  • IELTS: 5.5 or
  • TOEFL (paper): 550 or
  • TOEFL (CBT): 210 or
  • TOEFL (IBT): 79 or
  • Canadian Language Benchmark Test (CLB): 6
  • CELPIP 6
  • PTE Academic: 50 or
  • Cambridge: CAE or
  • Has earned a Grade 12 graduation diploma from in a system in which English is the official language, or
  • Successfully completed a pre-Intermediate certificate from a Language Canada accredited school or
  • Successfully complete the College’s English language proficiency assessment, or
  • Successful completion of 24-week ESL program at the College
  • Completion of a 3-credit course in English, Communication, Academic Writing from an accredited college in Canada

Prior to going for practicum, the students will also need the following certificates:

  • First Aid/CPR
  • WHMIS

Program Duration

900 hours; 36 Weeks FT; 51 Weeks PT (weekend); 46 Weeks FT (Evening)

Course Outline

Course # Title of Course # of Hours
COMP050 Basics of Computers 25
EDA099 Math and Literature Fundamentals 50
EDA100 Interpersonal Communication 45
EDA101 Introduction to Education Assistant 35
EDA102 Fundamentals of Inclusive Education 40
EDA103 Child Growth and Development 1 40
EDA104 Child Growth and Development 2 40
EDA 105 Supporting Positive and Independent Behavior 50
EDA 106 Autism Spectrum Disorders 60
EDA 107 Applied Behavioral Analysis 30
EDA 108 Teaching Language and Communication to Students with Disabilities 40
EDA109 Understanding Exceptional Learners 50
EDA110 Mental Health and Addiction Literacy – Children and Youth 50
EDA111 Educating Children and Young People with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders 25
EDA112 Assistive Technology in the Classroom 50
EDA 113 Supporting Personal Care 40
EDA 114 Career Preparation 20
EDA 115 Observation Assignment 30
EDA 116 Practicum 180
  TOTAL 900

Please speak with your Campus Representative if you need further information.

Fee Structure

# PARTICULARS FEE REMARKS
1 Tuition Fee $8260 Domestic Students
2 Registration Fee $250
3 Textbooks $890
4 Course Material $250
Total $9650
1 Tuition Fee $11480 International Students
2 Registration Fee $250
3 Textbooks $890
4 Course Material $250
Total $12870

This program has been approved by the registrar of the Private Training Institutions Branch (PTIB) of the Ministry of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills.

Financial Assistance

Western Community College offers a variety of financial aid opportunities to ease students’ stress and allow them to focus on their studies. If you need extra support, we have flexible funding to accommodate all our students, no matter their financial situation.

  • BC Student Loan
  • In-house Financing
  • Student Line of Credit
  • Scholarships

Our dedicated Financial Aid Officers will help you every step of the way.

FAQs

Is being an educational assistant worth it?

The value of being an educational assistant (EA) can vary depending on the individual's interests and career goals. However, working as an EA can provide a fulfilling career helping students with diverse learning needs and working collaboratively with teachers and other education professionals.

How much do EA's make in BC?

The salary for EA's in BC can vary depending on the school district, level of education and experience, and number of hours worked. According to the BC government, the hourly wage for EA's ranges from approximately $20-$33 per hour.

What is the best course to become a teaching assistant?

There are various courses available to become a teaching assistant, including programs at colleges and universities or online courses. It is recommended to research different programs and ensure they meet the requirements for the specific school district in which you hope to work.

What are the education assistant duties?

Education assistant duties can vary depending on the specific school and district, but typically include assisting students with diverse learning needs, working collaboratively with teachers and other education professionals, providing classroom support, and helping to develop and implement individual education plans.

How many hours does an EA work?

The number of hours an EA works can vary depending on the school district and individual school needs. Some EA positions may be full-time, while others may be part-time or on-call.

How do I become a teaching assistant with no experience?

While having experience in education or working with children can be beneficial, it is not always required to become a teaching assistant. Many school districts offer on-the-job training and professional development opportunities for new EA's.

Can you be a teaching assistant with no qualifications?

In most cases, a minimum level of education or qualifications is required to become an EA. However, the specific qualifications can vary depending on the school district and individual school needs. It is recommended to research the requirements for the specific district in which you hope to work.

How long does a teaching assistant course take?

The length of a teaching assistant course can vary depending on the program and level of education. Some programs can be completed in a few months, while others may take a year or more.

How do teaching assistants get paid?

Teaching assistants are typically paid an hourly wage, which can vary depending on the school district and level of experience.

How fast can I become an EA?

The time it takes to become an EA can vary depending on the specific school district and the individual's level of education and experience. Some districts may offer on-the-job training or accelerated training programs, while others may require a specific level of education or experience.

Is an EA a teacher?

No, an EA is not a teacher. However, EA's work collaboratively with teachers and other education professionals to support student learning and development.

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Why Study at Western Community College

  • Installment-based, low tuition fee.
  • 100% Practicum Placement
  • Weekday, weekend, and evening classes optionally available
  • Part-time or full-time class schedule
  • Free CLB preparation classes * Conditions Apply
  • Graduate employment rate: 97%

Admissions Contact Information

Mon – Sunday 9:00A.M. – 5:00P.M.

Surrey Campus

+1 (604) 594-3500
info@wcc.ca

Abbotsford Campus

+1 (604) 776-1301
abbyinfo@wcc.ca

Surrey, BC

Unit 201 8318 120 St
Surrey, BC V3W 3N4

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