Education Assistant

Approved under the Ontario Career Colleges Act, 2005

Course Overview

The Education Assistant program at Crossroads Truck & Career Academy prepares you for a rewarding career supporting students with diverse learning needs. This comprehensive 664-hour diploma program provides the knowledge and skills needed to work effectively alongside teachers in elementary and secondary school settings. Through fully online synchronous instruction, you’ll learn to support students with special needs, behavioural challenges, developmental disabilities, and physical exceptionalities while developing essential communication, behaviour management, and assistive technology skills. 

Is this program right for you?

This program is ideal for compassionate individuals who want to make a meaningful difference in the lives of students with special needs. If you have patience, strong interpersonal skills, and enjoy working collaboratively with teachers and families, this career path offers the opportunity to support children and youth in reaching their full potential while working in a rewarding educational environment. 

What You'll learn

This comprehensive program covers essential areas including behaviour management, autism and special education, communication and sign language, assistive technology, mental health foundations, and the Ontario school curriculum. You’ll develop practical skills in Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA), working with Individual Education Plans (IEPs), using adaptive devices, and building partnerships with families and educators to support students with diverse learning needs. 

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the Education Assistant program are qualified to work in various education settings supporting students from elementary through secondary school levels.

Job Titles
  • Education Assistant
  • Teachers Assistant
  • Learning Support Assistant
  • Special Education Support Worker
  • Student Support Assistant

Workplace Settings

  • Public and Private Elementary Schools
  • Secondary Schools
  • Special Education Classrooms
  • Integrated/Inclusive Classrooms
  • Learning Centres 

Admission Requirements

To be admitted into the Education Assistant program, you must meet ONE of the following requirements: 

  • Ontario Secondary School Diploma (Grade 12) or equivalent. 
  • Be 18 years of age or older on or before the program begins AND pass the Wonderlic Scholastic Level Exam with a minimum score of 16 (The exam can be administered at one of our campus locations.

Included Certifications

Education Assistant Diploma

WHMIS Certification

Program Details

Program Type:

Certificate Course

Program Duration:

35 Weeks (33 weeks instruction + 2 weeks breaks)

Total Instruction Hours:

664 Hours

Delivery Format:

Full online delivery (synchronous)

Language of Instruction:

English

Why Choose Crossroads?

  • Flexible online learning
  • Comprehensive curriculum
  • Small classes with personalized support
  • Experienced instructors
  • Fast-track to employment
  • Accessible admission

CONTACT US FOR MORE INFO

Frequently asked questions

No, this program does not include an off-site practicum. All learning is completed through online instruction.

The Education Assistant program is delivered fully online using synchronous (live, real-time) instruction. You will attend scheduled classes online where you can interact with instructors and classmates in real-time.

Students must maintain a 70% average for each subject to pass. Each subject requires a minimum final mark of 70% to successfully complete the program.

Students who fail a subject must repeat it at an additional cost. You may need to wait until the subject is offered again on the schedule. Students have up to 3 months from the original program end date to pass all academic and financial requirements. 

You will need a computer with a reliable internet connection, webcam and microphone. The program uses Microsoft Office applications (Word, Outlook) and Windows 10. 

We offer multiple start dates throughout the year. Contact our admissions team at (613) 742-7499 extension 206 to learn about upcoming classes and to secure your spot. Classes fill quickly, so we strongly recommend applying early!

No, there is no provincial regulatory body governing Education Assistants in Ontario. However, you must complete recognized training and meet employer requirements. Many school boards require a post-secondary diploma in Education Assistant studies.

Funding and financial assistance may be available for those individuals who qualify. Please click here to see the detailed information on financial aid.