Educational Assistant

Job description

Educational Assistant – Grades 8–12 Full-Time | 2025–2026 School Year Queen Margaret’s School | Duncan, BC Queen Margaret’s School (QMS) is seeking a compassionate, collaborative, and student-centred Educational Assistant to join our Senior School team. This is an opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the daily lives of students by helping them build confidence, develop independence, and experience success in their learning. Working alongside classroom teachers and Learning Support Teachers, the Educational Assistant provides individualized support to students with diverse learning needs while contributing to an inclusive, welcoming, and engaging school environment. We are looking for someone who builds strong relationships, approaches challenges with patience and creativity, and believes that every student has strengths worth discovering and celebrating. About Queen Margaret’s School Founded in 1921, Queen Margaret’s School is an independent school serving more than 525 students from Preschool through Grade 12. Our beautiful 30-acre campus in Duncan, BC, provides students with exceptional opportunities for classroom, outdoor, experiential, and equestrian learning. Our diverse community includes students from around the world, creating a vibrant and inclusive environment where curiosity, character, and connection are valued. At QMS, our values guide how we learn, work, and support one another: Be Curious. Be Kind. Be Brave. Be You. About the Role As an Educational Assistant, you will work closely with students, teachers, and the Learning Support team to provide responsive and individualized support throughout the school day. Your responsibilities will include: Supporting strategies, accommodations, and goals identified in students’ Individual Education Plans (IEPs) Providing direct academic, social, and behavioural support to students with identified learning needs Helping students develop confidence, self-advocacy, organization, and greater independence Adapting your approach to meet different learning styles, strengths, and needs Observing and documenting student progress, engagement, and areas requiring additional support Collaborating with classroom teachers, Learning Support Teachers, and other members of the school team Helping create a safe, respectful, inclusive, and positive learning environment Supporting students in classrooms and throughout the broader school environment Participating in relevant meetings, professional learning, training, and school activities Bringing patience, creativity, flexibility, and a genuine enthusiasm for working with young people What You Bring Required Completion of a recognized Educational Assistant, Special Education Assistant, School and Community Support Worker program, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience Experience supporting students with diverse learning, behavioural, or developmental needs in an educational or related setting Strong interpersonal and communication skills A collaborative, team-oriented approach Empathy, patience, sound judgment, and professionalism Cultural awareness and an ability to work effectively within a diverse school community Willingness to complete a Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector screening initiated by Queen Margaret’s School Preferred Level 1 First Aid certification Experience supporting students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Familiarity with trauma-informed, inclusive, and strengths-based educational practices You Might Be a Great Fit If You Are Student-centred. You take the time to understand the individual student—their strengths, needs, interests, and goals—and adjust your support accordingly. People-focused. You build trusting relationships and help students feel heard, respected, and supported. Collaborative. You value teamwork and communicate effectively with teachers, Learning Support colleagues, families, and other professionals. Creative and adaptable. You understand that what works for one learner may not work for another and are willing to try different approaches. Curious. You are open to learning, feedback, professional growth, and new ways of supporting students. Brave and compassionate. You advocate for students, approach challenges calmly, and encourage young people to take positive risks and develop confidence. Authentic. You bring warmth and professionalism to your work while creating space for students to confidently be themselves. Compensation & Benefits Salary: $42,000 annually Eligible employees also have access to a comprehensive compensation and benefits program that may include: Extended health and dental benefits RRSP matching Enhanced holiday entitlements Life and travel insurance Employee and Family Assistance Program Tuition discount Professional development opportunities Fitness Centre access Subsidized lunches Free on-campus parking How to Apply Interested candidates are invited to submit: A cover letter A current resume Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Early applications are encouraged. All successful applicants must complete a Criminal Record Check initiated by Queen Margaret’s School. Join Our Community At QMS, Educational Assistants are important members of the team surrounding each student. Your encouragement, consistency, creativity, and care can have a lasting impact—not only on academic success, but on a young person’s confidence and sense of belonging. If you are passionate about helping students discover their strengths and navigate their own path, we would love to hear from you.