The Field Experience
General Information

Parking: 

School parking facilities are often limited. Teacher Candidates are advised to inquire with the host school about parking facilities in order to make arrangements regarding parking and transportation.

Transportation:

It is the responsibility of the Teacher Candidate to secure reliable transportation to and from Field Experience placements. Due to the extensive geographic area we cover, it is possible that your travel time to your placement could be longer than you would prefer.

Professional Presentation:

Teacher Candidates are expected to present in a professional manner. 

Electronic Devices: 

While in the host school, device use should be limited to professional purposes, and should NOT detract from the Teacher Candidate’s involvement and interaction with students and staff. 

Arrival Time: 

Teacher Candidates are expected to arrive at their assigned classroom at least 30 minutes prior to the official school start time. Please check and adhere to the sign-in procedure of the individual school. It is the Teacher Candidate’s responsibility to determine the directions to the school and the school start time in advance. 

Departure Time: 

Teacher Candidates are expected to remain in the school for at least 30 minutes at the end of the school day or as determined by the Associate Teacher.

Personal Appointments: 

Please ensure that personal appointments are scheduled outside of the Field Placement hours.

Field Trips: 

With principal approval, Teacher Candidates are permitted to attend daily field trips with their Associate Teachers. Please contact the Practicum Office if invited to attend a trip outside of this parameter.

Professional Activity & Development: 

Teacher Candidates require permission from the Principal and Associate Teacher to attend parent/teacher interviews, PA Day activities, and out-of-school activities. If a Teacher Candidate is unable to attend a required PA Day that occurs during the Field Experience component of the program, a make-up day must be arranged and recorded on the tracking sheet in your Field Experience Portfolio.

Supervisory Duties: 

Any supervisory duties carried out by the Teacher Candidate must be supervised by a member of the Ontario College of Teachers. These supervisory duties could include yard duty, hall duty, lunch duty, or supervision of out-of-class excursions.

Co-curricular Activities: 

Teacher Candidates are encouraged to make a reasonable contribution to co-curricular activities and the school community. They may assist in the coaching or conducting of an activity, but they are not permitted to have sole responsibility for a team or activity. Teacher Candidates must conduct any co-curricular activities under the supervision of a member of the Ontario College of Teachers.

Lesson Plans: 

Lesson plans are to be completed and shared with the Associate Teacher at least 24 hours before teaching. This will allow the Associate Teacher adequate time to review the lesson plan and suggest changes if necessary.