Bachelor of Education - Education: West Kootenay Teacher Education Program (WKTEP) (Co-op)

Program overview

The Bachelor of Education - Education: West Kootenay Teacher Education Program (WKTEP) is a 12-month post-degree program designed for individuals aiming to teach in rural and small school settings. This program offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes coursework in curriculum, instruction, and practicum experiences tailored for both Elementary and Secondary teaching. Upon successful completion, graduates are recommended to the Teacher Regulation Branch for a professional teaching certificate, enabling them to pursue a fulfilling career in education.

Program structure

The WKTEP is structured to provide a robust educational experience over a 12-month period. Key features of the program include:

• Combination of coursework and practical teaching experiences.
• Focus on rural and small school settings, enhancing the learning experience.
• In situ, place-conscious learning that connects students with local communities.
• Three-week Community Field Experience to engage with diverse educational environments.
• Weekly practicum experiences starting in September, culminating in a 10-week extended practicum.

This program is ideal for those who wish to specialize in teaching and gain hands-on experience in various educational contexts, preparing them for a successful career in education.

Featured Experiences

The WKTEP offers a variety of unique experiences that enhance the learning journey of its students:

• Community Field Experience (CFE): A three-week immersive experience in diverse educational settings, including museums, environmental education camps, and Indigenous communities.
• Practicum: Weekly experiences in schools, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in real classroom settings.
• Inquiry Seminars: All teacher candidates participate in inquiry seminars each term, fostering critical thinking about pedagogical practices.
• Exposure to multi-age and alternate learning environments, emphasizing rural education.
• Collaboration with local educators to create contextualized learning opportunities.

Career Options

Graduates of the WKTEP can pursue a variety of rewarding career paths in education, particularly in rural settings. Potential job options include:

• Elementary School Teacher: Educators who teach foundational subjects to young children, fostering their growth and development.
• Secondary School Teacher: Teachers specializing in specific subjects for middle and high school students, preparing them for further education or the workforce.
• Environmental Educator: Professionals who teach about the environment and sustainability, often in outdoor or non-traditional settings.
• Indigenous Education Teacher: Educators who focus on teaching Indigenous perspectives and cultures, often in collaboration with Indigenous communities.
• Curriculum Developer: Specialists who design educational programs and materials, ensuring they meet the needs of diverse learners.

These career options reflect the diverse opportunities available to WKTEP graduates, equipping them to make a significant impact in the field of education.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.