Willis College
Teacher Assistant
Your Path to a Rewarding Career in Education
Sydney
Program Length:
24 weeks
Program Hours:
730
Credentials:
- NS Diploma
Study Options:
- In Person
Start Dates
Sydney
September 14, 2026
April 12, 2027
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Your Path to a Rewarding Career in Education
Start your career in education with Willis College’s Teacher Assistant program, designed to provide practical teacher assistant training in Nova Scotia and prepare you for work in inclusive public and private school environments. This program combines classroom instruction with hands-on practicum experience, equipping you with the skills, confidence, and credentials that schools are looking for.
Over 24 weeks, you will learn how to support teachers, assist students of all ages, and contribute to creating positive learning experiences. Through real classroom placements under the supervision of the principal and a Nova Scotia–licensed teacher, you will gain practical experience working directly with students, including those with diverse learning needs, while applying the strategies and techniques you learned in class.
Upon completion, you will earn your Teacher Assistant diploma, along with industry-recognized certifications, enhancing your employability and readiness for school settings across Nova Scotia. Certifications earned will include:
- Workplace Health Management Information Systems (WHMIS)
- Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)
- Non-Violent Crisis Intervention (NVCI)
- Occupational Health and Safety (OHS)
- Food Handlers Safety
- Mental Health First Aid
Whether you’re passionate about helping children succeed, interested in inclusive education, or looking for a rewarding and stable career, this program gives you the hands-on training and real-world experience you need to launch your future as a Teacher Assistant.
$21
Average Wage/HR$26.62
High Wage/HRSource: jobbank.gc.ca/wagereport (NOC 43100)
Program Outline
Please click on the course title to see the course description.
This module introduces learners to current accessible and assistive technologies and related services designed to reduce barriers to learning for students. Through lessons, activities, and hands-on learning experiences, learners will develop familiarity with various operating systems and a range of assistive devices, applications, extensions, and software commonly used in the classroom and other educational settings. Principles of Universal Design for Learning will be examined within the context of selecting and applying appropriate accessible and assistive technologies to enhance student performance and support equitable, independent access to learning tasks.
In this module, learners will discuss and acquire the skills necessary for effective communication and collaboration within an inclusive education setting. Learners will be familiarized with various observation and documentation tools and how to objectively record information. There will be a focus on professional communication and collaboration, examining policies and procedures within RCEs in Nova Scotia. The module will also explore the roles of LST and Specialists within our system and how the TA may support them (i.e., SLP, Psych, Specialists, Schools Plus, Student Support Workers, and others).
Upon completion of this module, learners will have a comprehensive understanding of human development, including the transition from conception to birth and the key developmental milestones across the lifespan through adolescence. Physical, cognitive, linguistic, social, and emotional domains of development will be examined, providing learners with insight into the factors influencing each domain and an appreciation of the importance of early foundational supports.
This module focuses on developing an understanding of behavior and its functions within educational contexts. Learners will examine methods for objectively observing and documenting classroom behaviors using a variety of assessment and data-collection instruments commonly employed in schools. The module also emphasizes strategies for supporting students in developing greater independence as learners.
This module introduces the learner to the development of inclusive education in Nova Scotia. It will examine the Inclusive Education Policy and discuss Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS), Universal Design for Learning (UDL), Culturally and Linguistically Responsive Pedagogy, and the role of the TA within these. Learners will also examine essential foundations for learning, which include mental health, well-being, and the issue of trauma, especially the historical roots of trauma in families, including newcomers/immigrants, First Nations, and African Nova Scotian communities.
This module introduces learners to elements of personal safety and provides them with the necessary training to meet the physical, medical, and social-emotional needs of the students they will be working with. They will also focus on acquiring skills and competencies to maintain their health and well-being while working with students.Opportunities will be provided for practical, hands-on training, as well as the acquisition of certifications in WHMIS, Standard First Aid/CPR (Level C), and Non-Violent Crisis Intervention Training. Learners will also gain an understanding of the provincial guidelines, policies, and protocols for safely administering medications, as well as how to follow student Plans of Care.
This module provides an overview of learning differences encountered within school settings and examines the barriers students may experience in accessing the curriculum. Learners will analyze the diverse strengths and challenges associated with these differences, as well as their potential impact on students' well-being, academic achievement, and family contexts. The module also introduces key terminology used within Nova Scotia education and examines how these terms are applied in educational programming.
This module introduces learners to current accessible and assistive technologies and related services designed to reduce barriers to learning for students.Through lessons, activities, and hands-on learning experiences, learners will develop familiarity with various operating systems and a range of assistive devices, applications, extensions, and software commonly used in the classroom and other educational settings. Principles of Universal Design for Learning will be examined within the context of selecting and applying appropriate accessible and assistive technologies to enhance student performance and support equitable, independent access to learning tasks.
This module introduces learners to the role of the Teaching Assistant within inclusive education settings. It examines professional roles and responsibilities, ethical standards, confidentiality, appropriate use of social media, and relevant inclusive education policies.
This module provides learners with an introduction to essential communication skills required in school-based workplaces. Learners will examine key concepts in interpersonal communication, written communication, and documentation, as well as the use of basic computer applications commonly employed in contemporary work environments. The module also explores the role of social media in modern society and its professional implications, and introduces effective job search strategies.
In this module, learners will operate under the direct supervision of a principal and a Nova Scotia–licensed teacher in either public or private school settings, as well as under the indirect supervision of the Placement Supervisor from the education provider. Learners are required to complete all designated placement hours to meet program requirements. Placement hours may be completed during the school year and within regular school hours.
In this module, learners will operate under the direct supervision of a principal and a Nova Scotia–licensed teacher in either public or private school settings, as well as under the indirect supervision of the Placement Supervisor from the education provider. Learners are required to complete all designated placement hours to meet program requirements. Placement hours may be completed during the school year and within regular school hours.
Job Market
Teacher Assistants work in public and private elementary and secondary schools throughout Nova Scotia. They provide support to students, teachers, and counsellors in both instructional and non-instructional tasks. Under the supervision of a teacher, Teacher Assistants offer additional attention and guidance to students, assist with the development of research and learning skills, and support teachers by grading assignments, checking homework, and managing administrative tasks such as taking attendance.
For example, they assist with personal care, teaching, and behaviour management under the supervision of teachers and other childcare professionals.
Salary Information
Nova Scotia
Average Wage ($/hr) – $21.00
High Wage ($/hr) – $26.62
Canada Wide
Average Wage ($/hr) – $25.01
High Wage ($/hr) – $32.42
Admissions Requirements
Standard Admissions
- High School Diploma (Grade 12) or GED equivalent
- Admissions Interview
- Vulnerable Sector Check (completed within six months of acceptance into the program)
- Child Abuse Registry Check
- Criminal Record Check
- English language proficiency
Mature Student Admissions
- Minimum of 21 years of age and have been out of school for at least one year
- Demonstrated numeracy and literacy skills (assessment tools such as TOWES may be used)
- Vulnerable Sector Check (completed within six months of acceptance into the program)
- Child Abuse Registry Check
- Criminal Record Check
- English language proficiency
Frequently Asked Questions
The program spans exactly 24 weeks (6 months) and is built to get you classroom-ready efficiently. The timeline is strategically structured so you can begin in the spring, complete your intensive theory and specialized classroom placements over the summer, and graduate precisely in time for the major fall school board hiring surge before the new school year begins.
To meet the high professional standards required by regional school boards and public education facilities, Willis College integrates multiple mandatory industry credentials directly into your curriculum. Throughout your 24 weeks, you will complete the training and earn official certifications in:
- Non-Violent Crisis Intervention (NVCI)
- Mental Health First Aid
- Standard First Aid & Level C CPR
- Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS)
- Occupational Health and Safety (OHS)
- Food Handlers Safety
You will complete two separate practicum placements arranged directly by the college to ensure you gain diverse, real-world classroom experience before you graduate. During these placements, you will operate inside active public or private school settings under the direct supervision of a licensed teacher and school principal. Once hired permanently in the sector, you will enjoy a consistent, family-friendly schedule that matches standard school hours (Monday through Friday) with all summers, weekends, and school holidays off.
This program is an excellent fit for:
- Individuals passionate about supporting children and contributing to student success.
- Those seeking stable, rewarding work in school settings.
- People transitioning from unrelated fields into education support roles.
- Those currently working in early childhood or educational support roles who want formal credentials.
- Internationally trained professionals wanting Canadian credentials and classroom experience.
Why choose the Teacher Assistant program?
- Start Your Education Career in Just 24 Weeks: Complete accelerated, career-focused training designed to help you enter a meaningful role in a school setting sooner.
- Gain 220 Hours of Classroom Experience: Complete two practicum placements in public or private schools under the supervision of licensed teachers and school administrators.
- Earn Valuable Industry Certifications: Graduate with certifications in WHMIS, CPR and First Aid, Non-Violent Crisis Intervention, Occupational Health and Safety, Food Handler Safety, and Mental Health First Aid.
- Train for Today’s Inclusive Classrooms: Build practical skills in inclusive education, behaviour support, personal care, assistive technology, and trauma-informed practice.
- Learn a Provincially Aligned Curriculum: Complete training developed in partnership with Nova Scotia’s Department of Education and Early Childhood Development and aligned with provincial education standards.
- Prepare to Make a Meaningful Impact: Graduate with the confidence, experience, and practical skills to support student success and contribute to positive classroom environments.
What You'll Learn
- Inclusive Classroom Support: Learn how to assist teachers and support students with diverse learning needs using inclusive education practices, Universal Design for Learning, and culturally responsive approaches.
- Child & Youth Development: Build an understanding of physical, cognitive, social, emotional, and language development from childhood through adolescence.
- Behaviour Support Strategies: Learn how to observe, document, and respond to student behaviour while using positive strategies that encourage independence, participation, and success.
- Assistive & Accessible Technology: Gain hands-on experience with tools, devices, applications, and software that help reduce barriers and support equitable access to learning.
- Student Health, Care & Safety: Develop the practical skills needed to support students’ physical, medical, and social-emotional needs while following school policies, care plans, and safety procedures.
- Professional Communication & Collaboration: Strengthen your ability to communicate effectively with teachers, specialists, administrators, students, and families while maintaining confidentiality and professional standards.
Why You'll Love Willis College
- Industry-Aligned Programs: Career-ready curricula designed alongside top employers to ensure your skills match current market demands.
- Instructor-Led, Applied Learning: Hands-on training taught by industry experts who bring real-world knowledge, mentorship, and practical insight into the classroom.
- Flexible Learning Pathways: Tailored study options—in-person, online, or hybrid—that fit your lifestyle and meet you where you are.
- Personalized Small-Class Support: Dedicated guidance and encouragement in smaller group settings where you are a person, not a number.
- Accessible Funding Assistance: Direct support navigating student loans, grants, scholarships, and flexible payment plans to make your education attainable.
- Lifetime Career Services: Continuous job-search support and career counseling to help you transition smoothly from the classroom to the workforce.
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What Our Graduates Are Saying
"Attending Willis gave me my self-confidence back. It helped me turn my life around. I came to Willis broken and I came out fixed and reinvented. Invest in yourself and go to Willis! The school and faculty invest themselves in you."
Ryan Shank
Executive Business Administration Graduate