Trent University’s Bachelor of Education programs have received full accreditation until 2021 from the Ontario College of Teachers, further underscoring the strong, positive reputation of the School of Education and Professional Learning within the local community, surrounding school boards, and the post-secondary sector.

“We are extremely proud of this achievement,” said Dr. Jackie Muldoon, dean of the School of Education and Professional Learning at Trent University. “Leading-edge teaching and research by our faculty, exceptional students and strong partnerships with local school boards and the community have created a strong and positive teaching and learning environment at Trent.”

Panel members from the Ontario College of Teachers visited Trent University to examine artifacts, program resources and department facilities, conducting interviews and collecting public comments on the quality of the programs under review. Trent’s programs received outstanding reviews for the full-time and part-time consecutive education programs leading to a Bachelor of Education degree.

The Ontario College of Teachers has accredited more than 50 full- and part-time teacher education programs in 18 university faculties of education in Ontario. The College also reviews and approves hundreds of Additional Qualification courses. These courses keep teachers current and prepare them to teach in diverse communities including those from English, French, multicultural, First Nations, Métis and Inuit heritages. Accreditation helps to ensure that the programs and courses that prepare teachers are based on the profession’s ethical and practice standards. (Excerpt from http://www.oct.ca/public/accreditation). The decision can be viewed at: http://www.oct.ca/public/accreditation/decisions/trent-2014

Trent University’s School of Education and Professional Learning has a successful history of encouraging the development of its students through small-group teaching. A commitment to fostering intellectual exchange and mentoring through interactive course delivery provides personalized and transformative educational experiences. Students are encouraged to engage with the community outside the classroom and participate in colloquia and conferences, a distinctive feature of Trent’s scholarly ethos.

The faculty at Trent’s School of Education share in the belief that education can inspire positive change in the world, and their passion and expertise are integrated throughout the program. Experiential learning practicums, emphasis on ecological and social equity, leading technology and personalized learning environments, highlight some of the programs key features. As award-winning teachers and researchers, Trent education faculty are tackling contemporary issues about society, environmental sustainability and social justice in the education system.

For more information about the B.Ed Consecutive Program at Trent University, please visit trentu.ca/education and follow the School of Education on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube at @TrentUSoE.

Posted on Tuesday, September 30, 2014.