Even in a challenging economy, people still have to learn - and the University of Lethbridge Faculty of Education is well known for supplying high-quality teachers to the profession who work locally, regionally, nationally and internationally.

Since 2003, the Faculty's well-deserved reputation for excellence has brought more than 30 school boards or educational organizations to its annual Teacher Job Fair.

This year, the Teacher Job Fair takes place on Wednesday, Jan. 23, beginning at 9:30 a.m. in the University Hall Atrium.

The Teacher Job Fair allows students opportunity to establish one-on-one contact with representatives from prospective school boards from as far as the United Kingdom.

"We provide a service to current students and recent graduates that allows them to interact with future employers," says Nicole Spence, Teacher Job Fair co-ordinator. "Many students will be ready to teach within the next few months and the job fair can present opportunities for employment. Some employers will even decide to personally interview or make group presentations to upcoming grads at this job fair."

Spence adds that the fair is not just for impending graduates but for all teachers beginning to chart their career path.

"We encourage third- and fourth-year students to attend the job fair at some point during the day to talk or interview with the delegates. It's a great experience for both employers and students to collect information about potential opportunities with each school board or agency."

The Faculty of Education offers some of the most extensive practical teaching experience in Canada – with 27 weeks of practical work placement, students often receive double the amount of time in front of a classroom as other programs, and find they turn their experiences with the many teacher partners who mentor U of L students into long-term work relationships.