Dear Mr Brown:

I recently graduated from a teacher’s college in Kingston. Having sent out numerous applications, I have not received a job offer as yet, nor do I expect any offers based on the work environment. Therefore, I am thinking of pursuing a short course in Canada. Do you have any recommendations for programmes that will allow me to stay in Canada as a recent graduate with no work experience?

— JOW

Dear JOW:

We do receive many queries from those in the educational sector. Employment as a teacher in Canada is unlikely until you become a permanent resident; however, many students enrol in programmes that will facilitate employment in an area that complements their background based on their area of interest. Please see the following three examples.

Autism and behaviour science

One popular programme is autism and behaviour science. This is a graduate programme which trains students in the principles of applied behaviour analysis, which deals with the skills to assess a situation and develop a plan to teach new skills and reduces behavioural regression. The programme is taught by clinicians, and there is a partnership with local child care centres to allow students the opportunity to practise skills before embarking on field placements.

Human resources management

Human resources management is a good programme for trained teachers. The programme provides the knowledge base to confidently handle several human resources issues, including compensation, hiring, performance management, organisation development, safety and wellness benefits, employee motivation, communication, administration and most importantly, training. Students are also exposed to major business disciplines, including marketing, accounting and technology. It is a two-year marketable programme which complements your background.

Addictions and mental health

Some of my clients from the educational sector, particularly those interested in guidance counselling, take programmes related to addiction and mental health to obtain the theoretical understanding and clinical skills to assist teenagers and others in successfully navigating their personal challenges.

I am not sure when you would like to begin your studies. However, I can assist you should you wish to enrol for September or January, as long as space is available in said programmes and since I do not have deadlines for the schools that I represent.

Please visit

jamaica2canada.com for additional information on Canadian permanent residence programmes, including Express Entry, the Study and Work progamme, visitor’s visas or appeals, etc.

Antonn Brown, BA, (Hons), LLB, MSc, RCIC, is an immigration counsel and education agent of

JAMAICA2CANADA.COM — a Canadian immigration & education firm in Kingston. Send questions/comments tojamaica2canada@gmail.com

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