- Program Description
- Program of Studies / Mandatory Courses
- Admission and Registration
- Opportunities
- Next Steps
- Additional Information
- Frequently Asked Questions
- College Resources
- Program Contact
Program Description
Make a difference providing support to educators and to students with exceptional needs to implement education, safety and behaviour support plans. Educational Assistants promote positive environments for learning while also assisting with life and living skills development. The provincially-approved curriculum will allow you to develop the aptitudes, knowledge and skills needed to work with and support children and youth with special needs during their educational experience.
This apprenticeship program meets the needs of those who wish to pursue a career as an Educational Assistant through a combination of paid on-the-job training and in-school training. The in-school training will be completed through a series of online, asynchronous course completed on a part-time basis through Mohawk College (your training delivery agent - TDA). At the end of your apprenticeship, you’ll have developed a high level of skill, judgment and creativity to succeed in this high-demand industry.
Upon completion of the apprenticeship program, you will receive a Certificate of Apprenticeship confirming you have the skills, knowledge and experience that meets industry standards of practice specific to your trade.
While the majority of the cost of the course training is funded by the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skill Development, students are required to pay a classroom fee. Textbooks and other course costs may be an additional cost.
During your Apprenticeship, you will:
- Work collaboratively with educators and other educational professionals.
- Assist in implementing individual education plans for students, including but not limited to specialized equipment and learning resources.
- Apply intervention strategies.
- Establish a positive environment for learning using safe work practices and techniques.
- Assist with the development of life skills that students will use beyond the classroom.
- Practice professionalism and ethical practices.
- Reflect on in-school training and apply the techniques learned to everyday scenarios during on-the-job training.
Program Length and Format
Generally, this trade will require 2268 hours of on-the-job work experience and 432 hours of in-school training (approximately 1.5 to 2 years). Upon completion of an apprenticeship program, the Ministry issues a Certificate of Apprenticeship. Students must successfully complete both Level 1 and Level 2 to receive a certificate. An Apprentice cannot move into Level 2 without successfully completing all requirements of Level 1:
- Educational Assistant Apprentice Level 1 - Basic
- Educational Assistant Apprentice Level 2 - Advanced
Additional Details
Admission and Registration
To qualify for an apprenticeship, you must:
- Be a least 16 years of age
- Have legal permission to work in Canada (for example, have a valid social insurance number)
- Have a sponsor located in Ontario. A sponsor is someone who agrees to hire, train and pay you during your apprenticeship training
Application Process
- Determine which apprenticeship program meets your interests/career goals.
- Find an employer or a sponsor related to your desired trade. Tips on how to locate a Sponsor can be found on the Skilled Trades Ontario website.
- Submit your application through the Skilled Trades Ontario Portal (STOP).
- Sign a training agreement with your sponsor after your STOP application is approved.
- Once accepted to complete an apprenticeship, register for your training by choosing Mohawk College as your Training Delivery Agent (TDA).
For further information on beginning an apprenticeship, please visit the Skilled Trades Ontario website (opens new window).
Financial Assistance
When it comes to paying for your education, investing in your future can be more affordable than you think. A Mohawk College education is one of the most cost-effective means of acquiring the skills and knowledge you need to have a prosperous and rewarding career. You may be able to supplement your income and savings with scholarships, bursaries, or loans offered through Mohawk College and/or the government.
Financial assistance resources you may be eligible for:
Opportunities
Upon completion of the Educational Assistant Apprenticeship, students can expand their credential to an Educational Support Diploma (747) by completing 11 additional online, asynchronous courses through Mohawk College Continuing Education:
- COMM11000 Essential Communication Skills or COMM10382 Business English Skills
- MATH10065 Math in an Educational Setting
- EDUC10116 Inclusion & Diversity
- EDUC10004 Learning Strategies
- EDUC10001 Autism Spectrum Disorder
- COMP10006 Adaptive and Assistive Technology
- EDUC10037 Transition Planning
- EDUC10109 Total Communication
- 3 General Education Elective Credits
Once you have completed your apprenticeship requirements, you are eligible to apply to upgrade your crediental to a post-secondary Ontario College Diploma. There is no application fee and applications are submitted online directly through our website (opens in new window). For assistance with your application to bridge into the Educational Support program or for more information, please contact ceeducation@mohawkcollege.ca.
Career Opportunities
For more details on related occupations, job market information and career opportunities, visit the Government of Canada Job Bank (opens in new window).
Next Steps
Once accepted into the program, continue to monitor your email for communication from the Ministry and Mohawk College on next steps in registering for your courses/selecting your timetable.
Additional Information
To learn more about apprenticeships, visit the following websites:
- Government of Canada Employment and Development (opens in new window)
- Skilled Trades Ontario (opens in new window)
Frequently Asked Questions
College Resources
Program Contact
Continuing Education
Education and Library Studies
Email Us
1-844-767-6871
