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Indigenous Classroom Assistant Diploma Program

Intake(s):
July
Available to:

 All Students

Degree type:
Diploma

**

Course load:
See Notes
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About the Program

The Indigenous Classroom Assistant Diploma Program prepares candidates to work as educational/classroom assistants to assist children in elementary schools. Candidates explore Indigenous-focused ways of knowing and learning to work with classroom teachers to assist elementary students of all academic levels in numerous subject areas. Practicum experiences allow students to connect educational theory with practical applications in the classroom and the entire school. The program’s schedule is designed for working educational professionals, completing courses on campus during July.

Partnerships / Off-Campus Programs

We are proud to partner with Indigenous Institutes, organizations and communities to deliver the Indigenous Classroom Assistant Program across Ontario and Canada. We work collaboratively with our partners in adapting our program to reflect their regional culture and to deliver the program in a format that meets the needs of their members and students. If you are interested in having this program delivered in your area or community, please send us an email.

Please contact [email protected] for information on current and future delivery of community-based delivery of ICADP and partnerships.

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Admission Requirements

Minimum completion of Ontario Grade 12 or equivalent. Candidates without grade 12 can be admitted if they are 21 years or older and have been out of school for two years or more.

How to Apply

Each component listed below is required unless indicated otherwise. Application components can be submitted together or separately, up until the final application deadline. Successful candidates will receive an offer letter clearly outlining the program of admission and other pertinent details.

Step 1: Application Form

Complete and submit the Indigenous Education Program Application Form.

Step 2: Official Transcripts

Official transcripts from all institutions (domestic or international) previously or presently attended (secondary schools, colleges, and universities) must be sent directly to Nipissing University and must bear the official seal of that institution. Official transcripts can be emailed directly from the institution to [email protected]. Copies will not be accepted.

Step 3: Funding Sponsorship Information Form (Optional)

If applicable, download or print the Funding Sponsorship Information Form and email the completed document to [email protected] OR submit it using the Application Attachments Form.

Step 4: Proof of Name Change (Optional)

Proof of name change is required if academic documents show a name other than that under which your application is made (for example: marriage registration, notarized statements of legal name change or other legal documents). If applicable, submit proof of name change using the Application Attachments Form.

Future Careers

Graduates are equipped to pursue careers in roles such as classroom assistant, educational support worker, early childhood educator, special needs support, and community education programs. They also gain a strong foundation for further study in education, Indigenous education, child and youth care, or related fields, allowing them to continue building a career supporting student learning and community development.

Real People, Real Impact

Discover how real students have found support, opportunity, and belonging at Nipissing.
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This program helped me build the skills and confidence to support students in meaningful ways. The combination of culturally grounded learning and hands-on practicum made me feel prepared to make a difference in the classroom and in my community.

Ashley T.

Class of 2023

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The program supports its students not only academically but culturally as well. They have created a safe space where you are respected and supported to succeed.

Donna M.

Class of 2026

Program Requirements

Find more details about the program and required courses.

Request More Info

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Available to Domestic Students only

Notes:

The program consists of three onsite summers sessions held at Nipissing University in North Bay, online courses are held during the fall, winter and spring sessions, and 3 in-school internships.

Disclaimer:
While every effort is made to ensure accuracy on this site, in the event of a discrepancy, Nipissing’s Academic Calendar is the official reference.