Great Plains College announces new Educational Assistant program

KINDERSLEY, SK – Great Plains College is pleased to announce the addition of an Educational Assistant (EA) program to its Kindersley Campus offerings. The part-time certificate program is set to begin in January 2022.

“After talking with community partners and completing a program needs assessment in the Kindersley region, the need for a local Educational Assistant program was evident and we’re pleased to be able to meet that demand in our community,” explained Fritz Eckstein, region manager at Great Plains College. “Educational assistants provide immeasurable support to students and teachers in our education system and we look forward to helping many individuals get started in this career path.”

The program will cover everything from basic care skills and crisis prevention techniques, to social, emotional and cognitive development through a combination of in-class learning and two practicums.

“Practicums are an important part of the program structure,” added Eckstein. “Students are required to complete a practicum in both an elementary and high school setting, which will give them the opportunity to practice their skills and gain experience with real students in different classrooms, helping them be better prepared for the workplace after graduation.”

Those interested in the program can apply to the full part-time program or enrol in individual courses that will be scheduled throughout 2022-23.

A completed EA program may also give credit for Level 1 in the Early Childhood Education program (pending Ministry approval) and up to six credits toward the Disability Support Worker program.

For more information about the EA program, to view the course list or to apply, please visit greatplainscollege.ca/ea.