UFV's Teacher Education Program: Planting the Seeds for a Critically-Thinking Citizenry
The University of the Fraser Valley is pleased to have its own Teacher Education Program! The Teacher Education Program (TEP) at UFV will be unique in several ways. First of all, it has a focus on the people of the Fraser Valley itself. Student teachers will make connections with local school districts. Many will actually become school teachers in these same districts. Second, the TEP will have a strong emphasis on developing critically-minded educators with a passion for social justice and a progressive outlook for the future. It is a belief of those working in the UFV TEP that teaching in our schools is one of the most important and complex professions a person can have in our society. In acknowledgment of this, our TEP has as one of its core assumptions the notion that teachers are life-long learners. Its philosophy of education includes instilling this passion for learning in our student teachers.
The new UFV TEP already has a clear 5-year growth plan. The first cohort of 32 elementary school student teachers began their program in May 2007. TEP has now shifted to a July entry, with the fourth cohort starting in July 2010. In the summer of 2012, it is expected that a TEP for secondary school student teachers will come into being. Both streams have projected increases in enrollment within the next few years.
The UFV program is composed of a combination of professional coursework and practicum experience in local schools. With this approach, student teachers are given ample opportunity to deeply engage with educational theory and its application to their own teaching practice. When student teachers successfully complete the program, they are recommended to the British Columbia College of Teachers to receive a BC Teaching Certificate.
This site will provide you with information on the academic preparation required to enter the UFV TEP and the admissions criteria considered in the review of your application.
The Teacher Education Program at UFV values the diversity that comprises Canadian society, including our students and teachers. It acknowledges this diversity by stressing acceptance and dignity for each individual, no matter how their identity is influenced by factors such as race, ethnicity, social class, religion, gender, sexual orientation, language, mental or physical ability, and age. This is reflected in the TEP focus on social justice and inclusion, and we encourage people who have a similar philosophy to apply. Mature adults who may be considering a career change are also encouraged to apply.
