Experience Teaching Beyond the University Classroom: The Practicum in the Bachelor of Education Program
One of the most transformative aspects of earning a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) is the practicum – an opportunity to step beyond the university classroom and into a real elementary or secondary classroom setting. Whether you’re pursuing an Elementary or Secondary education degree, the practicum bridges the gap between theory and practice, equipping you with the skills, confidence, and experience needed to excel as an educator.
What is a Practicum?
Practicum is a structured, supervised teaching experience that forms a critical component of the B.Ed. program. During your practicum, you’ll work alongside experienced teachers in elementary or secondary classrooms (depending on your profile) to put into practice the teaching methods and strategies you’ve learned throughout your coursework.
Practica are spread across the duration of your program, starting from your first year, beginning with observation and small-group instruction and evolving into full-class teaching responsibilities.
Why the Practicum is Essential for Future Educators
For aspiring teachers, the practicum is much more than just a course requirement; it’s the foundation of your growth as an educator. By gaining practical experience outside the classroom, you’ll develop a deeper understanding of what it means to teach, inspire, and lead students. You’ll emerge from our Bachelor of Education program prepared to create meaningful learning experiences and make a lasting impact in the lives of your future students.
How Does the Practicum Benefit You?
Real-World Teaching Practice
Step into a real classroom to experience teaching first-hand. You’ll have the chance to lead lessons, manage classroom dynamics, and engage with students across diverse age groups and abilities.
Mentorship and Feedback
Work closely with an experienced teacher who serves as your mentor, offering valuable guidance, feedback, and support to help you refine your teaching techniques.
Gradual Responsibility
Start by observing classroom practices and assisting with smaller tasks. Over time, take on more responsibilities, such as lesson planning, classroom management, and assessment.
Evaluation and Reflection
Receive constructive feedback from mentors and university supervisors and reflect on your performance to grow as an educator.
Practical Application of Knowledge
Practicum enables you to implement the theories, strategies, and techniques you’ve studied, bridging the gap between education coursework and the real world.
Enhanced Classroom Confidence
As you gain hands-on experience, you’ll build the confidence needed to manage a classroom effectively, foster a positive learning environment, and adapt to unexpected challenges.
Development of Professional Skills
Learn essential skills such as communication, problem-solving, and collaboration—qualities that are crucial for a successful teaching career.
Insight into the Teaching Profession
A practicum provides an authentic look at the day-to-day responsibilities of teachers, helping you confirm your passion and direction within the education field.
Networking Opportunities
Build connections with experienced educators, school administrators, and peers, which can prove invaluable as you begin your career in education.
Your Practicum Journey at Bishop’s
Student Teachers in the Elementary and Secondary education programs (B.Ed.) complete 700 hours of practice teaching over four practica in the School of Education. You must successfully complete the requirements of all practica components in order to complete the B.Ed. with recommendation to the Ministère de l’Éducation et de l’Enseignement Supérieur (MEES) for the brevet d’enseignement (Teaching Certificate).
Here is a look at your practicum journey throughout your B.Ed. degree at Bishop’s.
Practicum Progression (4-Year and 5-Year Paths)
Program Pathways
- 120-credit program (4 years): For students entering with a completed CEGEP D.E.C., 30+ credits from a post-secondary institution, or mature students.
- 150-credit program (5 years): For students entering with a high school diploma.
The visual demonstrates the typical practicum progression. Any changes to the program may alter the practicum progression.
Diversity of Placements
Bishop’s has a dedicated Practice Teaching Office (PTO)! They are the primary support for all practicum related needs. They also secure placements for students as B.U. students do not actively arrange their own practica.
Most practica are located at English school boards and some private schools in Quebec, though in the 3rd practica (6 weeks), Student Teachers are permitted to request a placement anywhere in Canada!
Additionally, to adhere with government regulations, the Practice Teaching Office (PTO) places Student Teachers across a “diversity of placements”, which means that each practicum site, to the greatest degree possible, must be at a different level, in a new school, with a different socio-economic profile.
You can request to conduct your practica anywhere within Quebec (or across Canada in your 3rd practicum), where an entente exists or can be established within a School Board/Institution, and efforts will be made to place you!
Next Steps
As you can see, with over 700 hours dedicated to practica, this is a critical component in your journey to becoming a teacher within the School of Education at Bishop’s.
Now it’s time to choose your concentration!
Learn more about teaching in Elementary
Learn more about teaching in Secondary
Learn more about Teaching English as a Second Language
Learn more about teaching Creative Arts
Or, if you still have questions, why not chat with a student in the School of Education? They can answer many of your questions and share their own experience.
An Act to ensure the protection of trainees in the workplace, Bill 14 (PDF)