The Indigenous Classroom Assistant Diploma Program (ICADP) offers its students the opportunity to explore the role of the classroom assistant who works with children in elementary public and First Nation schools. Students explore culturally relevant topics while working with elementary students of all academic levels in numerous subject areas. Practicum experiences allow students to connect educational theory to practical applications in the classroom. Our graduates return to their classrooms with newly acquired skills and knowledge gained to assist children in elementary classrooms across Ontario.
Upon completion of the two-year ICADP, students are qualified to work, under the professional direction of the classroom teacher and school Principal, as a classroom assistant with Indigenous and non-Indigenous school children.
Admission Requirements
- Minimum completion of Ontario Grade 12 or equivalent. Candidates without grade 12 can be admitted if they are 21 years or older and have been out of school for two years or more;
- Recent Criminal Reference Check including a Vulnerable Sector Check within six months of the start date.
I really enjoyed my time at Nipissing University in both the ICADP and ITEP summer programs. The opportunity inspired me to continue my undergrad in my home community. I appreciated the format of the summer program which also let me continue my full time employment during the school year. The faculty was very accommodating and helpful and I was also able to complete my practicum while teaching. Everyone within the faculty works hard to ensure student success and job readiness.
Karen Tessier
ICADP/ITEP graduate
Partnerships / Off-Campus Programs
We are proud to partner with Indigenous Institutes, organizations and communities to deliver the Indigenous Classroom Assistant Program across Ontario and Canada. We work collaboratively with our partners in adapting our program to reflect their regional culture and to deliver the program in a format that meets the needs of their members and students. If you are interested in having this program delivered in your area/community, please contact our office.
For information on current offerings of ICADP at other locations, please visit the links below: