Working as an Education Assistant (EA) in British Columbia offers a rewarding and in-demand career path, particularly for parents and gig workers seeking work-life balance and benefits.

EAs are currently in high demand across the province, allowing you to find meaningful and rewarding work in your community.

Being an Education Assistant in British Columbia means having summers off, along with winter and spring breaks. But the biggest benefit of all is the rewarding feeling of making a real difference in the lives of deserving students by contributing to inclusive learning in B.C.

EAs help students who need a little extra support thrive by promoting social skills and personal development, providing behaviour support, and being a positive and trusted adult for students.

What is an Education Assistant (EA) in B.C.? 

An Education Assistant, also often referred to as a Special Education Assistant (SEA) or Student Support Assistant, plays an essential role in B.C. classrooms. EAs support students with diverse learning needs to thrive in an inclusive environment.

Salary, Benefits and Work-Life Balance 

A career as an Education Assistant in B.C. is highly attractive due to the work schedule and comprehensive compensation package. 

For the most current and complete list of schools and specific program names, visit the salary finder section on the British Columbia Public School Employers' Association website.

How to Become an Education Assistant in B.C. 

To become an Education Assistant, you must complete a certified EA program offered by post-secondary institutions. Many programs are designed for flexibility.

Training Options: 

• Flexible Classes: Many certification programs offer part-time classes, allowing working individuals or parents to train at their convenience.
• Delivery Methods: Programs are available as certified, in-person, online, or a blend of both.
• Duration: Public programs generally take eight to 12 months, though some are shorter and longer, while some districts – particularly rural ones, allow for high school graduates with no post-secondary training to learn on the job. 

Regions Offering EA Training Programs in B.C. 

• Metro Vancouver: Douglas College, Langara College, Capilano University, Stenberg College, Burnaby School District 41, Richmond School District No. 38
• Fraser Valley: Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU), University of the Fraser Valley (UFV), Stenberg College
• Vancouver Island/Sunshine Coast: Camosun College, North Island College, Vancouver Island University (VIU). 
• Okanagan: Okanagan College, Sprott Shaw College
• Northern B.C./Central B.C.: College of New Caledonia (CNC), Northern Lights College, Coast Mountain College
• Online: Ashton College, Coastal College, Langara College

For the most current and complete list of schools and specific program names, visit the Education Assistant Careers page.

Next Steps 

• View current wages: To find the most current hourly rates and salary grids, you can visit the official B.C. Salary Finder for each district.
• Explore opportunities: Search for the latest job postings under the ECE, EA and Support Staff category to discover roles across every region of British Columbia. 

The post Education Assistant (EA) Careers in B.C.: Benefits, Salary & Training  appeared first on Make A Future.

Are you ready to launch your teaching career in B.C.? Sign up for Make a Future's free information sessions.

Join one of Make a Future's info sessions to learn more about what life looks like as a B.C. teacher. From discovering our regions to resume tips, the virtual sessions equip you with tools to launch your teaching role in B.C. schools.

By attending these sessions, you will:

• Learn about the online application process
• Discover the various employers in the sector
• Get insider tips and tricks for resumes, cover letters and interviews
• Hear directly from school district hiring managers

The post Free Info Sessions: Meet Employers and Discover Rewarding Teaching Careers appeared first on Make A Future.

For teachers seeking purpose, growth and awards, Northern British Columbia delivers.

Northern communities offer tight-knit schools, outdoor adventure and the chance to make a lasting impact. They also provide three opportunities for financial awards for teachers who move north:

• Northern B.C. Return of Service Award 
• Northern B.C. Relocation Award 
• Northern B.C. Practicum Award 

Northern B.C. Return of Service Award: Up to $18,000 Toward Tuition 

The Northern B.C. Return of Service Award helps future teachers' pay for their education and gain experience in northern schools. 

Teacher candidates who commit to teaching in a participating northern school district after graduation can receive up to $18,000 applied directly toward tuition in their final year of study. 

You may qualify if you: 

• Are a Canadian citizen or permanent resident 
• Are enrolled full-time in an approved teacher education program in B.C. 
• Are in the final year of your teacher education program 
• Application timeline 
• Application deadline: Oct. 17, 2025 
• Review period: Oct. 17–31, 2025 
• Notifications sent: Nov. 3–14, 2025 

Submit your completed application form, transcript, written responses and a reference letter to Workforce.Development@gov.bc.ca by Oct. 17. Please note that late or incomplete submissions will not be accepted. 

Participating School Districts

• SD59 Peace River South
• SD60 Peace River North
• SD81 Fort Nelson
• SD91 Nechako Lakes
• SD92 Nisga'a
• SD93 Conseil scolaire francophone 

Northern B.C. Relocation Award: Financial Help to Move for Teacher Education 

If you live in Northern B.C. and need to relocate for in-person teacher education coursework, the Northern B.C. Relocation Award can help cover moving costs. 

This Ministry of Education and Child Care–funded program supports students attending teacher education programs delivered in Northern B.C. 

What You Can Receive 

Eligible candidates can receive $800 per week, up to a maximum of $8,000 in relocation support. 

To qualify, you must: 

• Currently live in Northern B.C. 
• Be enrolled in a teacher education program offered in Northern B.C. 
• Need to relocate to attend in-person coursework 

Participating Universities

• University of British Columbia (UBC) 
• University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) 
• Simon Fraser University (SFU) 

This award is administered by each teacher education program, so application deadlines may vary. Contact your university program office for more information. 

Northern B.C. Practicum Award: $8,000 for Rural or Remote Placements 

Want to experience teaching in a northern community during your practicum? The Northern B.C. Practicum Award provides up to $8,000 to support relocation and living expenses for teacher candidates completing their final practicum in a rural or remote northern school. 

This program encourages future teachers to explore rural placements and build long-term connections with schools and communities in Northern B.C. 

You may be eligible if you: 

• Are enrolled in a public post-secondary teacher education program in B.C. 
• Are eligible for your final practicum placement this year 
• Have an interest in teaching and living in a rural or remote community 
• Accept a practicum placement in one of the participating northern school districts 

Teacher candidates completing practicums in the following northern districts may qualify: 

• SD27 Cariboo-Chilcotin
• SD28 Quesnel  
• SD49 Central Coast  
• SD50 Haida Gwaii  
• SD52 Prince Rupert  
• SD54 Bulkley Valley 
• SD57 Prince George  
• SD59 Peace River South 
• SD60 Peace River North 
• SD81 Fort Nelson  
• SD82 Coast Mountains
• SD87 Stikine
• SD91 Nechako Lakes
• SD92 Nisga'a  
• SD93 Conseil scolaire francophone 

This award is also administered by teacher education programs. Contact your program office for specific application details. 

Why Teach in Northern British Columbia? 

Teaching in Northern B.C. offers more than career experience; it's a lifestyle. From mountain trails and lakes to culturally rich, tight-knit communities, the region is full of opportunity and adventure. 

With programs like the Return of Service, Relocation and Practicum Awards, it's never been easier to start your career where you can truly make a difference. 

Learn More and Apply 

Learn more about Northern B.C. school districts and life in the naturally gorgeous region.

Start your journey north and start your teaching career with purpose.  

The post Teach in Northern B.C: Learn More About Financial Awards for Educators appeared first on Make A Future.

Looking to launch or grow your teaching career in a place where education, community and nature are deeply intertwined?

Vancouver Island West School District (SD84) offers a meaningful career path set against one of Canada's most stunning and rugged landscapes.

Welcome to Vancouver Island West School District (SD84)

Located on the traditional territory of the Nuu‐chah‐nulth peoples, including the Ehattesaht, Ka:'yu:'k't'h'/Che:k'tles7et'h', Mowachaht/Muchalaht, and Nuchatlaht Nations, SD84 serves the remote communities of Gold River, Tahsis, Kyuquot, and Zeballos. The district includes five schools and about 350 students, making it a close-knit community where educators and learners build lasting connections.

Why Choose SD84?

Tight-Knit Teaching Environment

With small class sizes and multi-grade classrooms, teachers have the opportunity to provide personalized, impactful instruction and really get to know their students.

A Career with Purpose & Perks

In addition to the chance to live and work in one of B.C.'s most naturally beautiful and culturally rich regions, SD84 offers a wide range of recruitment and retention incentives, including:

• $10,000 signing bonus for enrolling in teaching positions
• Remote Recruitment & Retention Allowance: $3,035 annually
• Isolation Allowances: Up to $3,546.28 a year, depending on location
• Moving Allowance: Up to $1,114.56, depending on location
• Nine-day fortnight calendar: every second Friday off
• Professional development funding and leave
• Comprehensive benefits: including medical, dental, pension, life insurance, and family assistance programs

What Makes Vancouver Island West Unique?

Remote, Resilient & Rewarding

Three of the district's schools are in remote communities accessible only by logging roads or water taxi. Educators here enjoy a front-row seat to nature, and many participate in outdoor activities as part of their daily routine, including kayaking, fishing, hiking or simply taking in the stillness of the forest and sea.

Our School Communities: Learning with Heart

SD84 schools serve vibrant coastal communities where education is deeply connected to place, people, and culture. With approximately 50% of the student population being First Nations, cultural understanding and land-based learning are core values.

School District 84 engages in preferential hiring of self-identified First Nations applicants in all positions in accordance with Section 42 (Special Programs) of B.C.'s Human Rights Code. We strongly encourage qualified First Nations candidates to apply.

In this district, students are known, valued and empowered. Educators are encouraged to grow professionally while becoming part of a larger mission: supporting children to succeed in life, and not just in school.

Coastal Living at Its Best

Life on the west coast of Vancouver Island offers a slower, more intentional lifestyle. Picture starting your day with a paddle on the ocean or hiking through ancient forests after school. These communities provide an ideal mix of professional opportunity and personal wellness.

More than a teaching job, working in the Vancouver Island West is a lifestyle choice, and one that puts wellness, connection and nature at the forefront.

Ready to Make a Difference?

If you're a B.C.-certified teacher (or eligible for certification) and want to work in a setting where you'll have both autonomy and community support, Vancouver Island West may be the perfect fit.

Whether you're just starting or looking for a meaningful next step, you'll find purpose, belonging and career growth here.

Live adventurously. Teach in SD84.

Check out the latest career opportunities in Vancouver Island West.

EXPLORE CAREERS TODAY

The post Teaching Careers in Vancouver Island West: Small Communities, Big Opportunities appeared first on Make A Future.

Schools throughout Abbotsford are hiring part-time "concession" workers for a food program that helps support the nutritional needs of students.  

This unionized position is ideal for working parents or gig workers who want to subsidize their income with a meaningful career that makes a difference every day. The role is ideal for those who love working in a fast-paced setting, while also enjoying the chance to interact with deserving students.  

If you're ready to make a difference and be part of a district that values your contributions, apply today for the following Concession Worker roles in schools across Abbotsford. 

• Godson Elementary 
• Clayburn Middle School 
• Mathxwi Elementary 
• Alexander Elementary
• Jackson Elementary
• Margaret Stenersen Elementary
• Chief Dan George Middle

Extended Benefits & Pension  

This position includes eligibility for extended health and dental benefits and pension contributions to the municipal pension plan. 

Concession workers are being hired through Feeding Futures, a B.C.-government run initiative that aims to ensure all students have access to delicious, nourishing food, while fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment. 

contribute to Student Heath & Success  

School food programs can provide students with access to nutritious, local food in a way that reduces stigma. When students are well-fed and ready to learn, they can thrive in and out of school. 

Th Concession Worker role helps ensure the goal of reducing financial pressure on families, improving learning outcomes and creating stronger connections to food communities as much of what students eat is sourced from local farmers and businesses.  

The roles generally require staff to: 

• Prepare and serve simple food and drink items  
• Operate basic kitchen equipment (oven, stove, dishwasher, slicer)  
• Maintain a clean and organized kitchen/concession area  
• Handle cash and assist with supply cost tracking  
• Supervise volunteers and keep food items stocked  
• Order and restock food and supplies as needed  
• Perform dishwashing and general cleanup duties  

The qualifications for a Concession worker include: 

• Grade 12 diploma (or equivalent)  
• Valid Food Safe Certificate  
• WHMIS and First Aid (or willingness to obtain)  
• Minimum 6 months kitchen or concession experience  
• Class 5 BC Driver's License  

Government Support for Food Programs 

In 2023, the B.C. Government committed $214 million over three years for Feeding Futures, the largest investment in school food programs in the province's history. 

The Ministry of Education and Child Care distributes Feeding Futures funding to all school districts in B.C. The Ministry works with school districts to provide spending criteria and offer guidance on how to run programs. 

"As busy parents deal with global inflation, school food programs can help reduce the pressure on their wallets while tackling student hunger," said Rachna Singh, Minister of Education and Child Care. "Working with local schools to make sure our kids are fed and ready to learn will make a real difference for families and communities." 

In addition to Feeding Futures funding, the Ministry of Education and Child Care is working with the Government of Canada to implement the National School Food Program in B.C., which will provide additional funding to districts and schools to expand school food programs. 

Last year, the Government of Canada announced an investment of $1 billion over five years for a National School Food Program to expand school food programs across the country. 

Work in the Heart of the Fraser Valley

Nestled in the heart of the stunning Fraser Valley and just under an hour from Vancouver, Abbotsford offers the perfect blend of natural beauty, community spirit and accessibility. With breathtaking mountain views, an active lifestyle, and a growing population, the area is ideal for families.  

Abbotsford School District is home to a team of educators, support staff and professionals working together to create a world-class, innovative learning environment for over 19,000 students. The district is committed to fostering a workplace culture that celebrates creativity, encourages growth and inspires excellence.  

If you're passionate about making a difference in the lives of children, Abbotsford School District would love to have you on the team. 

The post Abbotsford Schools Hiring Food Servers appeared first on Make A Future.

Register today for info sessions and bookmark this page to check back when registration links are updated. 

Don't wait – check out the latest support opportunities in B.C. schools and take the first step toward a fulfilling career today.

FIND Careers

The post Free Info Sessions: Discover Rewarding Support Careers in B.C. appeared first on Make A Future.

Want an in-demand career that provides benefits, pension and allows for the ideal work-life balance for parents and gig workers?

Being an Education Assistant in British Columbia means your workday typically ends by 3 p.m. You have summers off, along with winter and spring breaks. But perhaps the biggest benefit of all is the rewarding feeling of making a real difference in the lives of deserving students by contributing to inclusive learning in B.C.  

EAs help students who need a little extra support thrive by promoting social skills and personal development, providing behaviour support, and being a positive and trusted adult for students.   

EAs can work full-time, part-time, or on call, up to 32 hours per week, with an hourly pay rate ranging from $28 to $36.50. The schedule allows parents to have the same school breaks as their children, or it provides gig workers some security, benefits, consistent income and time off to pursue other interests.

The best part is that EAs are in demand in communities throughout the province, meaning if you get the training, you can start working within just a few months. Additionally, many certification programs offer part-time classes, allowing working individuals or parents to train at their convenience.

The ideal candidate for an education assistant is:   

• Patient, kind and compassionate  
• Organized, reliable and team-oriented  
• Strong communicator and active listener  
• Have a High School Diploma  
• Experience working with children  

Does this sound like you?

To become an education assistant in British Columbia, you typically need to complete a recognized educational assistance program (some school districts even offer in-house training), pass a criminal record check, and possess strong communication and interpersonal skills.   

Learn more about the role of the Education Assistant in B.C., including training pathways, salary information and sign up for EA job alerts.  

 Make a Future will also host an information session to delve into the role of an EA in more detail, including how to create a strong application package. Join us on Tuesday, Aug. 19, at 4 p.m. PST (7 p.m. EST).  

Register now

Discover a career that allows you to give back to the community and directly shape the lives of young people in British Columbia. 

The post B.C. Ready to Hire Education Assistants appeared first on Make A Future.

Are you a passionate educator ready to make a real difference? British Columbia is searching for qualified teachers like you to join our vibrant school communities. 

Throughout the 2025/26 school year, Make a Future will visit various Canadian Education Career Fairs in BC and throughout the country. Career fairs offer new graduates and established educators the chance to meet face-to-face with Make a Future, to build connections and learn more about what's available in BC. 

Districts and Independent schools love meeting teacher candidates at fairs because this gives them the chance to connect with potential employees before the application process begins. Some districts use fairs as an opportunity to encourage certain candidates to apply and may even offer them an interview on the spot.  

Make a Future attends career fairs to represent education jobs in schools across the province, including Public, Independent, Offshore and First Nations schools. While we do not directly hire for these roles, we help interested potential employees connect with districts and discover the many rewarding opportunities in BC education.

2025/26 Teacher Career Fair Schedule

The post Connect with Education Jobs in BC at Upcoming Career Fairs appeared first on Make A Future.

The school is home to 36 students who range in age from kindergarten to Grade 12, ensuring classes are small enough that you can make a true one-to-one impact with your students.

COMMUNITY CULTURE

Located on the Tsay Keh Dene Nation band lands, the school was the first in the province to be certified by the First Nations Schools Association (FNSA) run by a First Nation and the connection to its community runs deep.

"We teach the B.C. curriculum along with Sekani teachings and land-based education," said Gary Frey, the principal at Tsay Keh Dene School. "Teachers are encouraged to provide input into the programming if they feel a facet of the pedagogy is missing."

The Band (Tsay Keh Dene means "People of the Mountain"), which is one of the Sekani bands of B.C.'s northern interior, sees connecting with its history and keeping its language alive as vital for its community and youth.

"The traditional language is Sekani," Frey says. "Few people know it; however, it is taught daily to students by community elders."

DRAW FOR EMPLOYEES

With six teachers, a principal and vice principal on staff, teaching at Tsay Keh Dene means you'll be working in a unique environment, working as a team and collaborating with your colleagues daily.

Classrooms are equipped with smartboards and new teachers are connected with support systems and resources from day one.

"There are also opportunities for professional development through services and training, in the community" Frey adds. "The staff orders supplies together, makes educational decisions involving curricula, has celebrations together and supports one another in times of need."

SALARY AND BENEFITS

Teaching at Tsay Keh Dene School means you'll be working in a remote area; however, the Band pays for fully furnished housing that includes internet and utilities, as well as covering the costs of transporting your personal items to the area each fall.

Salaries range from $60,000-90,000 yearly and teachers also receive the same benefits package as those working in the public system, with healthcare — which includes massage, chiropractic, naturopathic, orthopedic, vision, dental and prescription coverage — covered as well as pension contributions matched by the band.

One more additional perk unique to teaching here, the Tsay Keh Dene band will pay for flights home three times each school year scheduled around breaks. You'll get to visit home in December, March and June, with the band also covering the cost of the flight back to the Nation in time for school in August.

"My favourite thing about working here is the staff and students," Frey says. "The students are friendly and cooperative, and the staff is very supportive."

Connect with us today to find out more about teaching at Tsay Keh Dene and living in B.C.'s gorgeous northern interior.

Check out the latest roles in Tsay Kh Dene:

• Principal 
• Early Childhood Educator
• Elementary and High School Teachers
• Director of Education

The post Small Classes, Strong Culture, Big Impact: Teach at Tsay Keh Dene School appeared first on Make A Future.

Over the school year, Make a Future has hosted information sessions with several B.C. school districts. We are excited to conclude the school year with our final information session featuring Peace River North School District #60.

Peace River North School District #60 is located in the heart of naturally stunning Peace Country, Fort St. John. This city boasts a young demographic and continues to grow each year.

In 2024, it was also ranked #1 as the Most Affordable place to live in BC. Fort St. John offers an array of outdoor options alongside urban conveniences. This district participates in innovative educational practices and prides itself on challenging, encouraging and supporting all learners in developing their abilities.

Peace River North School District #60 is actively hiring full-time, part-time and on-call teachers, including:

• Temp PT (0.6) Numeracy Support Teacher (2025-26)
• Temp FT (1.0)Fitness/English Teacher (2025-26)
• Temp FT (1.0) French Immersion Intermediate Teacher (2025-26)
• Temp FT (1.0) Woodwork 7-9/ADST/Tag Teacher (2025-26)
• Temp FT (1.0) English/Career Life Education Teacher (2025-26)

In this information session, you will hear from Human Resources professionals who will share information about the district, the region and career opportunities. Hear from current teachers about their experiences and gain insights on how to best apply for opportunities in the district.

This free event takes place on Thursday, June 12 at 4 p.m. PST (7 p.m. EST). We hope you will join us in wrapping up Make a Future's Information Session season.

Register

The post Curious About Teaching Careers in B.C.'s Most Affordable Community? appeared first on Make A Future.