CBBC Career College
Teacher Assistant
Launch Your Career as a Teacher Assistant
Sydney
Program Length:
24 Weeks
Program Hours:
730
Upcoming Start Dates
Sydney:
September 14, 2026
April 12, 2027
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Launch Your Career as a Teacher Assistant
Start your career in education with CBBC Career 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 Department of Education and Early Childhood Development-designed 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.
Want to Know if We're a Good Fit for You?
Drop in at our campuses Monday to Thursday to check out what CBBC Career College has to offer. Our group tours let you see our campus and learn about our programs and services up close. They're a great way to get your questions answered and figure out if learning with us matches what you're looking for. Don't miss your chance to explore and see if our place feels right for you!
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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
Program Outline
Please click on the course title to see the course description.
In this module, learners will discuss and acquire the skills needed for 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 in newcomer & 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 Plan of Care (PoC).
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.
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
This program is an excellent fit for:
- Individuals passionate about supporting children and contributing to their success
- People with strong empathy and a genuine care for children's growth
- Those interested in inclusive education and supporting students of all abilities
- People seeking a rewarding and stable career in the education field
- Strong communicators who will connect easily with students and teachers
Why choose the Teacher Assistant program?
- Program curriculum designed by the Nova Scotia Department of Education and Early Childhood Development
- Be classroom-ready in just 24 weeks
- Earn industry-recognized certifications such as WHMIS, CPR/Standard First Aid, NVCI along with your diploma
- Two practicum placements arranged by the college to provide you with real world experience before you graduate
Save time & money
- Become job-ready in less than a year with career-focused programs.
- Learn only what you need - practical, in-demand skills that employers are looking for.
- Hands-on learning that prepares you for day one on the job.
- Start your career sooner - no need to spend 3–4 years in school to land a well-paying job.
- Access lifetime career support, with experts dedicated to helping you find employment anytime.
Your future is our priority
- Start right away with frequent intakes - no long wait time (even more most in-demand programs)
- Small class sizes and a student-focused approach, with personalized support from experienced instructors.
- Access lifetime career support, with experts dedicated to helping you find employment anytime.
Career-relevant education
- Train for real-world careers with programs designed to make you job-ready.
- Prepare for in-demand roles with strong hiring opportunities.
- Graduate with hands-on practicum experience - so you enter the job market with both skills and experience.
- Benefit from strong employer partnerships and connections to organizations actively hiring our graduates.
What People Are Saying
My instructor is incredibly supportive, providing both essential skills and emphasizing the meaningful impact of our work. With excellent assistance from Administrative staff, CBBC Career College has truly prepared me for a fulfilling career as an ECE.
Un Dam Song
Early Childhood Education
