The Aboriginal Teacher Education Program (ATEP) of Queen's University Faculty of Education offers several unique program tracks, which provide an opportunity for candidates to specialize in Aboriginal education. These program tracks are particularly suited to Aboriginal candidates.

The Aboriginal Teacher Education program track is constituted as both community-based part-time and on-campus full-time. Community-based courses are adapted to local contexts and needs, and include Aboriginal perspectives, balancing Aboriginal-specific and student-centred learning with knowledge of the teaching/learning process and research on Aboriginal education. Campus and community-based components include a course specifically on Aboriginal Teacher Education, and Practicum Placements in First Nations schools.

Please note that there are 25 seats available for the on-campus program. For community-based site program delivery ATEP requires a minimum number of 15 successful applicants

Upon completion of the program, candidates will receive a Diploma in Education or a Bachelor of Education degree; candidates will also receive the Certificate of Qualification as a teacher, allowing them to teach in First Nations and Provincial schools.

A unique feature of ATEP is that candidates of Aboriginal Ancestry who hold only an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent are eligible for the Community-Based Diploma in Education, Primary and Junior option, and upon completion will receive the Certificate of Qualification, allowing them to teach in the Primary and Junior divisions.

Learning Opportunities Include:

• Aboriginal-specific Programming
• Application of Aboriginal perspectives and world view to theory to practice
• Problem solving with peers
• Review of Aboriginal and other curriculum resources
• Supervised teaching in a First Nations or Provincial setting

Mission Statement
The Aboriginal Teacher Education Program is committed to providing quality education for students in First Nations schools, through the recognition that teaching and learning are life-long and holistic.

ATEP strives to prepare First Nation teacher candidates with the skills and knowledge required to be effective in meeting the future needs of their communities. ATEP fosters excellence and pride in First Nations education by empowering candidates to excel in their individual growth as teachers, learners, partners, and role models.

The Aboriginal Teacher Education Program is dedicated to completing the circle of Aboriginal Education.

ATEP Student Lounge

MEd AWIES Cohort 2009-2010

 Elder Bernard Nelson &
Jan Hill, Four Directions
   Aboriginal Student Centre