Yukon University to deliver customized learning opportunities for Yukon’s educational assistants

This is a joint news release between the Government of Yukon and Yukon University.

Over the 2025–26 academic year, Yukon University, in partnership with the Government of Yukon, is offering tailored professional training for educational assistants employed with Yukon schools. The new four-part “micro-credential” started with an orientation and engagement session on August 20, 2025, at the Ayamdigut campus, with participation from 218 educational assistants from schools around the territory.

Throughout the school year, the Yukon’s educational assistants will take part in professional development that builds the skills and confidence needed to help all learners thrive. The series of four workshops will cover:

• the role of educational assistants in schools;
• how to support students with complex learning and physical needs;
• strategies to support students with individualized education plans; and
• interprofessional communications and teamwork.

This collaborative initiative is part of the Government of Yukon’s commitment and ongoing work to strengthen supports for educators and improve outcomes for students. Investing in targeted, practical training for educational assistants helps create inclusive, high-quality learning environments in every Yukon school.

This new initiative expands Yukon University’s offerings for existing and aspiring educators, which include the two-year Early Learning diploma, four-year Bachelor of Education degree (Yukon Native Teacher Education Program), and two-year Bachelor of Education after-degree.

Educational assistants are essential to supporting students’ learning and wellbeing in Yukon schools. By partnering with Yukon University on this new training, we are investing in our educational assistants, providing tools and strategies they can use to help meet the diverse needs of students and to work in strong collaboration with educators, families and communities.

– Minister of Education Jeanie McLean

This tailored program invests in developing our educational assistants who play such an important role in children’s classroom success. Existing educational assistants will build their practical skills and confidence in supporting learners and to collaborate effectively within school teams. We believe this initiative will strengthen our education system and contribute to healthier, more inclusive learning environments across the Yukon.

– Yukon University Dean of Applied Arts, Andrew Richardson

Photo caption:

A total of 218 educational assistants from schools across the territory gathered at the Ayamdigut campus on August 20, 2025, for orientation and an engagement session to discuss professional development opportunities.

Media contact

Laura Seeley
Cabinet Communications
867-332-7627
laura.seeley@yukon.ca

Sophie Best
Communications, Education
867-332-6225
sophie.best@yukon.ca

Stephanie Joe
Communications, Yukon University
867-332-4722
sjoe@yukonu.ca