Thinking about teaching? Consider BHEAP

The Blue Heron Education Access Program (BHEAP) ensures Access students interested in a teaching career receive supports not only throughout their first degree, but also once admitted to the Bachelor of Education program, and right through to graduation.

blue heron with stones of wisdom

Hoka Canku: The Blue Heron Pathway

Artwork by Leah Fontaine, Ph.D. student, Faculty of Education

Blue Heron Education Access Program students benefit from:

•  An Introduction to Education course designed for Access students and taken with your peers
• Workshops with mentors and models where you can spend time with Indigenous teachers and administrators from the field to learn from experiences in teaching including:
• Sessions with Indigenous scholars in the Faculty of Education
• Invitations to special events hosted by the Faculty of Education
•  A dedicated Faculty of Education academic advisor

Throughout their studies, students are also supported by the Access Program’s holistic approach, which includes personal counselling, spiritual guidance, and academic skill-building. Together, these supports nurture both student well-being and academic success as they work toward completing their first degree. With its strong focus on community, the Blue Heron Pathway reflects one of the core values of teaching itself.

  • Intro to education class

    Intro to Education Access students from Dr. Marti Ford's class meet with Elder Mary Courchene.

When I was in high school, I noticed how students interacted with their teachers and how much joy there was. Some teachers have a friendly, conversational, and honest way about them—kids feel comfortable going to them and talking. I want to be one of those teachers because they make school more enjoyable and welcoming.”
Hoka Canku in the Dakota language
In Indigenous teachings, the Hoka Canku — or Blue Heron —represents patience, grace, balance, and determination. The Blue Heron embodies the wisdom to grow and the strength to move forward with self-reliance. As students walk along the Hoka Canku path, the Blue Heron is present to listen to the students, offering guidance and wisdom as they step into their roles as educators. The presence of the Hoka Canku reflects the core values of the teaching profession, reminding us that true educators lead with wisdom, resilience, and grace.

Faculty of Education Contact Us

Faculty of Educations
Education Building
71 Curry Place
University of Manitoba (Fort Garry campus)
Winnipeg, MB R3T 2N2 Canadada

faculty.education@umanitoba.ca
204-474-9004
1-800-432-1960 (ext. 9004) Toll-free in Manitoba