Welcome to WestCAST 2025, proudly hosted by Simon Fraser University's Preservice Professional Studies (PPS)!
WestCAST, the Western Canadian Association for Student Teaching, is an esteemed gathering that unites educators, scholars, and education enthusiasts from across Western Canada. Each year, this conference serves as a dynamic platform for dialogue, exploration, and collaboration in the field of education. We are excited to announce that WestCAST 2025 will take place from February 18 to 20, 2025.
The theme for WestCAST 2025 is 'engage'. In today's ever-evolving educational landscape, it is imperative to actively engage with the multifaceted challenges, opportunities, and innovations that shape our profession. 'Engage' serves as a rallying call for educators to immerse themselves fully in the pursuit of excellence, equity, and inclusivity in education.
Join us at WestCAST 2025 as we delve into meaningful discussions, share best practices, and ignite new ideas that will empower educators to engage more deeply with their students, communities, and the broader world. Whether you are a seasoned educator, a dedicated researcher, or a student passionate about learning, WestCAST offers a rich tapestry of experiences and insights to inspire and invigorate your journey in education.
Stay tuned for updates on keynote speakers and other details.
About the Host
Preservice Professional Studies (PPS) at Simon Fraser University's Faculty of Education stands as a testament to over five decades of commitment to excellence in teacher education. Established in 1965 with a modest class of 35 students, PPS has evolved into a renowned program, preparing approximately 450 new graduates annually.
Rooted in the ethos of bridging the gap between schools and universities, PPS remains steadfast in its mission to uphold scholarly rigor while fostering practical, hands-on experience. Initially offering the Professional Development Program (PDP), PPS has expanded to encompass a diverse range of programs including the Professional Linking Program (PLP), and the Alaska Highway Consortium on Teacher Education (AHCOTE).
Today, PPS boasts a distinguished faculty cohort of over 60 tenure-track members, augmented by approximately 40 seconded teachers serving as faculty associates. This unique staffing model blends academic expertise with real-world teaching experience, ensuring a holistic approach to teacher preparation.
Central to its philosophy is the commitment to nurturing ethically responsible and competent professionals dedicated to shaping the future citizens of a democratic and pluralistic society. PPS graduates emerge not only as skilled educators but as advocates for social justice and inclusive education.
With a legacy of producing outstanding teachers, both locally and globally, Preservice Professional Studies at Simon Fraser University continues to be at the forefront of innovative teacher education, empowering educators to make a lasting impact in classrooms and communities worldwide.
Simon Fraser University respectfully acknowledges the unceded traditional territories of the Coast Salish peoples, including the səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh), kʷikʷəƛ̓əm (Kwikwetlem), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish) and xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam) Nations, on which SFU Burnaby is located.
Read more about Lhuḵw’lhuḵw’áyten (Burnaby Mountain)