Instructional Assistant - 2026-1

Qualifications

Must possess a Grade XII diploma (or equivalent). One year certificate in a relevant area of study (e.g. Developmental Service Worker Certificate, a year completed towards the Early Childhood Education Diploma Program or Educational Assistant Diploma). A combination of Grade 12 and three thousand (3000) hours of experience working in a school program within the last five (5) years, may be considered in lieu of certificate provided the candidate is willing to undertake further educational course work (at own expense). Experience with individuals with severe developmental disabilities is an asset. Previous experience in an interdisciplinary school environment is an asset. Must have the ability to work effectively within a participatory team approach. Knowledge of the history of education and support services to people with disabilities and current trends, philosophies and practices concerning their care, education and lifestyles is an asset. Must have good written and verbal communication skills. Must be flexible and able to work with modified school structures when this is of benefit to students. Computer literacy related to special education computer software is an asset.

Duties and Responsibilities

Supports teacher to identify, with other interdisciplinary team member, the total needs of a group (classroom) of residents. Supports and encourages people to have new relationships, and supports people to explore engagement in community activities, and may be matched with a person supported to assist them in exploring these relationships and activities (This is known as an “exploring pair”) Follows the direction of the Teacher, working with other team member to deliver the educational component of the overall program of care, education and training. Duties include carrying out directed learning activities, and providing primary physical care (e.g. feeding, changes, health procedures, etc.) to students as needed. Participates in a formal IPP/IEP (Individualized Program or Educational Planning) process to ensure that the overall needs and preferences off each student are addressed by an interdisciplinary team at least annually and those educational plans and consequent outcomes are documented. Works closely with other team members to ensure coordination and integration of services. Communicates with students’ family members or advocates as required. Support others to function as effective team members and to achieve consensus decision. Provides direction, supervision and assistance to volunteers. Assists with planning and implementing appropriate orientation for volunteers. The Instructional Assistant is responsible for participating in and supporting an integrated total quality management/continuous quality improvement program (and culture) within the School Program that emphasizes a client focus and staff empowerment. The Instructional Assistant is responsible for helping predict changing needs of students, for modifying services to meet changing needs and for contributing to the ongoing development of the School consistent with the leadership and vision of the Centre. The above information is intended to describe the general nature of this position and is not considered to be a complete statement of duties and responsibilities. Additional duties and responsibilities may be assigned provided they are consistent with the qualifications identified and fall within the parameters of this role. These positions are unionized and fall under the MGEU Support Collective Agreement.

Conditions of Employment

Successful candidates will be required to provide a satisfactory Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Screening, Adult Abuse Registry Check, Child Abuse Registry Check and Prior Contact Check Successful candidates must complete a series of Occupational Health Checks. This includes the requirement to confirm immunization or immunity of specific communicable diseases