About NITEP: Our History

NITEP began as an elementary teacher education program in September of 1974 in response to needs expressed by Aboriginal people throughout B.C. for a more effective and relevant teacher education program. As of September 2004, a Secondary Option for those who want to teach grades eight to twelve was established.

There is a shortage of Aboriginal teachers in B.C., and an increasing number of Aboriginal people desire to become teachers. NITEP was designed to meet these particular needs. The intention of the program is to build upon and strengthen the cultural heritage and identity of the professionals in training. Using these strengths as a base, students develop the skills and academic knowledge expected of beginning educators.

The First Nations Education Council*, which developed and advises the program, is made up of Aboriginal educators, UBC Faculty, coordinator representatives, a BCTF representative, and NITEP student representatives.

*The NITEP Advisory Committee underwent a name change as of February 1995.