The Inclusive Education Support Worker (IESW) formally known as Education Assistant (EA)

The Role

An IESW supports students with disabilities and diverse abilities by promoting inclusive learning environments across schools. Working under teacher direction and management supervision—often independently—they assist in delivering educational programs, ensuring student safety and comfort through personal and physical care. Responsibilities include supporting life skills, behavioral interventions, work experience, and community outings. IESWs follow Ministry of Education and Child Care guidelines and work with students with a range of needs, including intellectual and physical disabilities, ASD, and other neurodevelopmental conditions.

Spareboard Expectations:

• As an employee on the spareboard, there is not a guarantee of work each day although you are expected to be available to be called for work Monday to Friday up to 9:00am during the school year
• It is an expectation that you accept any assignment that you are dispatched regardless of district site location, duration or assignment details. This includes areas up to the Langley border, Delta Border, White Rock and in the north up to the Trans Canada Highway.
• Vacations are to be taken during school closure periods for all 10 month employees (Christmas, spring and summer break).
• Leaves of a non-emergent nature may not be approved while school is in session. Be aware that all leave of absences require approval from both your school/department and Human Resources. If hired, do not make travel arrangements or commitments without prior approval.

Typical Responsibilities

• Assists students with disabilities or diverse abilities in areas like lesson reinforcement, data collection, behavior support programs, work experience, and preparing materials.
• Performs Level I personal assistance tasks (feeding, hygiene, toileting, diapering) and may administer medication or provide First Aid as needed, following protocols.
• Provides input into the design and implementation of Individual Education Plans (IEPs).
• Supports students in improving communication, social skills, and self-esteem.
• Accompanies students on field trips, teaching life skills like using public transport, handling money, and assisting students with mobility challenges.
• Monitors students during work experience programs, recess, and lunch.
• Operates, adjusts, and assists with specialized equipment like assistive technology, wheelchairs, and communication devices, in consultation with professionals.
• Maintains confidentiality of sensitive information.
• Administers passive physiotherapy exercises as prescribed by a therapist and adapts physical activities with input from teachers and specialists.
• Participates in parent meetings to discuss student progress as requested by the teacher.

Job Requirements

Knowledge, Skills & Ability

• Strong written and oral communication skills in English.
• Knowledge of disabilities and school programming to support students with diverse abilities.
• Ability to build rapport and maintain effective relationships with students and staff.
• Understanding of and support for the BC K-12 curriculum.
• Commitment to inclusion and supporting students with diverse abilities.
• Ability to acquire child-specific skills for positive behavior support and using specialized equipment and technology.
• Capable of implementing behavioral limits, collecting data, and maintaining a positive attitude.
• Proficient in using supportive equipment and technology.
• Ability to manage physical demands (lifting, redirecting, assisting with mobility).
• Team player with teachers, IESWs, parents, healthcare professionals, and district staff.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and problem-solving skills

Training & Certificates

• Completion of grade 12 plus a certificate as an Education Assistant, from a community college or an educational institute recognized by the district.
• Surrey Schools has modified the Job Classification of Education Assistant to Inclusive Education Support Worker effective July 1, 2023. This role requires certified EAs to complete district required training as a condition of employment. This training will be provided to the candidate, pending job offer.

Required Documents

• Cover Letter
• Resume
• Practicum reports (can be uploaded to your profile once received)
• Certificate/Diploma of Education Assistant Program
• 3 professional references
  • Name, professional title, work/professional email address (please do not provide personal email addresses, as they will not be used)
  • Acceptable reference include individuals in supervisory roles who have directly observed your work as an IESW (EA), such as Classroom Teachers, EA Mentors, or Principals. References from college instructors, peers, or unrelated positions should not be included.

Qualified applicants can apply by clicking the "apply" button to the right of the posting.

All successful applicants are required to join the CUPE Union Local 728. As per the CUPE collective agreement, the starting wage for this position is $34.03 per hour with an attractive benefit package also available.

Note: Thank you for your interest in Surrey Schools and the IESW position. Due to the high volume of applications, we will only be contacting shortlisted applicants at this time.