Educational Support at Fanshawe College

Graduates of the Educational Support program will have the skills and knowledge required to become an Educational Assistant (EA). As an Educational Assistant, you will be a valued member of a school team, working together to positively impact students. EAs play an instrumental role in making a difference in the lives of learners with exceptionalities, while helping to create an inclusive learning environment.

Our Educational Support program will give you the knowledge and skills to support a wide range of exceptionalities. You will learn how to develop strategies to encourage independence in accordance with learners' Individual Education Plans (IEPs) including areas such as mobility, communication, and personal hygiene.

Additionally, you will have real-life opportunities to connect theory and practice in every level of the program. You will experience placements in learning environments ranging from elementary schools to colleges. During your placements you will cultivate skills to effectively support learners with exceptionalities under the guidance of experienced mentors.

Educational Support program highlights:

• Gain experience during hands-on placements in every level of the program led by an experienced EA;

• Develop a working knowledge of assistive technologies and other learning enhancement tools;
• Cultivate the set of skills necessary to effectively assist students with special needs in personal care, life skills, behaviour, and academics;
• Examine teaching strategies to assist in re-teaching material in a developmentally appropriate manner.

Career Opportunities

Educational Assistants (EAs) are needed in a variety of academic venues, from school boards and schools to special education and community-based educational programs. This proposed diploma program will prepare graduates to work effectively with exceptional students up to the age of 21 years.