Overview
Elementary and secondary school teacher assistants support students, and assist teachers and counsellors with teaching and non-instructional tasks. They assist in areas of personal care, teaching and behaviour management under the supervision of teachers or other child care professionals. They are employed in public and private elementary, secondary and special needs schools and treatment centres.
This group performs some or all of the following duties:
Assist students with integration into the classroom and school setting
Help students individually or in small groups with assignments and reinforce learning and retention concepts under the supervision of the classroom teacher
Assist students with special needs using techniques such as sign language, braille and remedial programs
Monitor and report student progress to classroom teacher
Accompany and supervise students during activities in school gymnasiums, laboratories, libraries, resource centres and on field trips
May assist teacher in the operation of projectors, tape recorders and other audio-visual or electronic equipment
May assist in school library or office and perform other duties assigned by the school principal
May monitor students during recess, at noon hour or during the day.
Employment prospects
Annual salary
$43,756
$56,311
$62,923
Job openings
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British Columbia
3,455expected job openings (5-year forecast)
Education and training
Employment requirements
Completion of secondary school is required.
Teacher assistants usually require completion of a 10-month college program in teaching assistance, educational assistance or other social science program.
Teacher assistants who help students with special needs usually require specialized training and experience.
Additional information
Mobility to other occupations related to child care and adolescent supportive instruction is possible with experience.
Certification requirements
Post-secondary programs in B.C.
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