Start Date: May 2026

Application Deadline: December 1, 2025

Program Length: Two years

Credential: Bachelor of Education

Program Partner: Queen’s University

About the Program:
This community‐based program is a partnership between Kenjgewin Teg and Queen’s University. Graduates of this program will receive a Bachelor of Education degree with a focus in the Primary-Junior divisions (K-6). This teacher education program will provide candidates with an opportunity to specialize in Indigenous education with many courses being taught by Indigenous professors. ITEP fosters excellence and pride in Indigenous Education by empowering candidates to excel in their individual growth as teachers, learners, partners, and role models. Candidates will be placed on 18 weeks of experiential based practicum throughout their 2 years in the program in First Nations and/or Provincial school(s).

Career Paths: 

Graduates will be prepared to teach in First Nations and provincial schools at the Primary/Junior level and will have the skills and knowledge to be effective in meeting the current and future educational needs of their communities.

Courses:

Courses are adapted to local contexts and needs. These include Indigenous perspectives, balancing Indigenous-specific and student-centred learning with knowledge of the teaching/learning process, and research on Indigenous education.

In addition to the required curriculum courses of the regular program, all Primary-Junior (PJ) ITEP teacher candidates are required to take courses in Indigenous Teacher Education, Theory and Professional Practice in Indigenous Education, and Indigenous Teacher Education Community-Based Alternative Practicum. You can find course descriptions on the Queen’s University degree requirements webpage.

Practicum:

Practicum placements consist of 18 weeks: 3 weeks in the first summer (May); 11 weeks in the fall/winter terms; and 4 weeks in the second summer (May). Practicum placements are normally completed in blocks of 3 to 4 weeks and may be completed in the candidate’s home region. Practicum placements are offered in First Nations schools and/or Provincial schools with a significant Indigenous student population. Students are not permitted to arrange their own practicum placements.

Admission Requirements:

  • Complete the Online Indigenous Teacher Education Applicant Information Form (TEAS).
  • A résumé.
  • Reference letters from two respected members of your Indigenous community.
  • Statement of Indigenous Experience (SAE).
  • High School Transcript showing completion of Ontario Secondary School Diploma* (for those without an undergraduate degree).
  • Applicants admitted without an undergraduate degree must be of Indigenous ancestry and submit documentary proof of their ancestry as specified by the Ontario College of Teachers (OCT) when they apply for certification. It is the candidate’s responsibility to check.
    *Provides the opportunity for eligible candidates who self-identify as Indigenous and who are already teaching in aFirst Nation school setting to receive approval from theFaculty of Education to qualify for the Ontario College of Teachers (OCT) Multi-Session Transitional Certificate of Qualification and Registration (MTCQR).

NOTE: After registering with the OCT for your MTCQR, teacher candidates must successfully pass a Math proficiency test.

Connect with Your Program Coordinator:
Your program coordinator is here to support you every step of the way—both in the classroom and beyond.

Dina Bowles
Teaching & Learning Programs Coordinator
705-370-4342 ext 222
DinaBowles@kenjgewinteg.ca

Every attempt is made to ensure the accuracy of information provided in this fact sheet with our valued post-secondary partners. Kenjgewin Teg and its partners reserve the right to modify any course, program, curriculum, fee, timetable or location at any time. As a community-based delivery program with its partner, this program offering is subject to approved funding and sufficient enrolment.