North Island College (NIC) is reaffirming its commitment to serving the West Coast of Vancouver Island by transitioning to a more flexible, responsive and community-driven service model. This approach is designed to enhance accessibility and collaboration, while also ensuring education and workforce development remain a priority.

A Flexible, Community-Based Approach

NIC’s new model prioritizes flexibility and engagement by bringing education and training directly to communities, including Tofino, Ucluelet, Ahousaht, Tla-o-qui-aht, Toquaht, Hesquiaht and Yuułuʔiłʔatḥ. With the lease of the Ucluelet Centre expiring in June 2025, the college will shift away from a fixed-location model to a dynamic, in-community approach. This change not only aligns current resources with community needs but is intended to help create greater accessibility to educational opportunities.

Key elements of the transition include:

  • Regular In-Community Support – NIC staff member(s) will regularly visit key partner spaces. Locations may include school spaces, WorkBC offices, Island Health and the Clayoquot Biosphere Trust.
  • Enhanced Collaboration – NIC will continue working closely with First Nations and community partners to deliver Indigenous-led, labour market-focused programming.
  • Optimizing Resources – In-community services and increased mobility will help NIC expand accessibility and enhance engagement. 

Engaging with Community Partners

The new model for service delivery on the West Coast was created in consultation with local representatives, including community leaders, as well as First Nations. 

"Strong partnerships are at the heart of this transition," said Marisa Bennett Associate Director, Indigenous, Regional Partnerships and Port Alberni Campus Administrator. "By working closely with Indigenous communities, local leaders and other organizations, we are working to ensure NIC’s programs reflect the unique needs and aspirations of the West Coast."

These important conversations underscored the need for a more accessible and adaptive education model on the West Coast that meets labour market and community needs. Additionally, feedback indicated that a flexible, community-based approach will better serve the region, particularly for individuals facing barriers, such as transportation.

“Having access to services in our community means that our members no longer have to navigate the challenges of travel to Ucluelet, which can be costly and time-consuming,” said Crystal Frank, Ahousaht Council and NIC community partner. “This shift acknowledges the realties our community faces and ensures education is available where it is needed.” 

Continued Commitment to Workforce Development

NIC remains focused on providing high-quality, community-driven education that meets regional workforce needs. Future programming will continue through strong local partnerships, short-term funding initiatives, and a combination of in-person and digital learning opportunities. The new service delivery model is expected to be fully operational come Fall 2025. 

“This transition reflects NIC’s commitment to being responsive, adaptable and student-centred,” said Tony Bellavia, Vice President, Academic. “By moving beyond a fixed-location model, we can better serve the needs of West Coast communities while ensuring access to education and training.”

About North Island College

North Island College (NIC) is honoured to acknowledge the traditional territories of the combined 35 First Nations of the Nuu-chah-nulth, Kwakwaka’wakw and Coast Salish traditions, on whose traditional and unceded territories the college’s campuses are situated. North Island College is a comprehensive community college that focuses on student success. We proudly serve more than 9,000 students annually at our various campuses and through online and in-community learning.