Moving to Canada with children means you will want and need to understand Canada’s education system. Canadian school systems may be quite different from what you have been used to in your home country. In some respects, the school systems in Canada can also be different from each other, depending on the province or territory.
Schooling is mandatory to the age of 16 in most provinces, and to the age of 18 in New Brunswick and Ontario (or until completion of grade 12).
The Canadian school years lasts from September to June.
Regional differences
Schools are funded and overseen at the federal level, provincial or territorial level and on the local level, with chief policy making at the provincial level. Education is available in both English and in French in most places, provided there are enough students in that area speaking the secondary language.
Provinces are separated into districts, from which school boards are derived. It is the responsibility of the school boards to make local policy and to implement the standard curriculum set forth by the province. Alberta allows for charter schools that are not subject to the school boards.
As Canada has no federal department of education, the 10 provinces and three territories are, therefore, responsible for the organisation, delivery and assessment of education at the elementary, secondary, technical, vocational and post-secondary levels.
According to a report released by the Council of Ministers of Education, Canada, “While there are a great many similarities in the provincial and territorial education systems across Canada, there are significant differences in curriculum, assessment, and accountability policies among the jurisdictions that express the geography, history, language, culture, and corresponding specialised needs of the populations served”.
Kindergarten
Education, in most instances, begins with kindergarten. Junior kindergarten is available in British Columbia and Ontario, while in some areas, kindergarten is either not required or it is not available. Generally, children are aged five when they start kindergarten.
Elementary & junior high/middle school
Elementary school generally includes grades one through six (for students aged approximately six to 12 years), when there is a junior high school as the next step. In some areas, elementary school is extended through grade eight. Middle schools and junior high schools provide the transition from elementary to high school, and encompass years seven and eight of the education system.
High school
High school runs typically through grades nine to 12. In Québec, high school ends in grade eleven and is followed by CEGEP, a program that prepares the student for university or a technical field. A second senior year, sometimes called a ‘victory lap’ is often used in its place to strengthen the student academically before entering university.
Vocational school or university
Beyond this, students can attend either vocational schools or enter a university. At a university they will first earn a Bachelor’s degree, and can continue studies to receive a Master’s or a Doctorate degree. Vocational students will earn certificates and diplomas that will attest to their skills in the various trades.
Choosing a school in Canada
Whether you are looking for primary schools or tertiary institutions in Canada, you will find a range of different options and high-standard, world leading institutions.
Many foreign students choose to pursue further education in Canada due to the country’s internationally recognised education, competitive prices and lifestyle.
Primary and secondary schools
Provincial governments in Canada are responsible for regulating all primary and secondary schools. Once you know where in Canada you will settle, you can find out more information about schools in that area through the Council of Ministers of Education (CMEC).
Universities and colleges
Each university and college in Canada has its own set of rules and criteria on how to apply, and they also decide the level of English or French competency that must be proven by applicants to meet acceptance standards. More information on post-secondary institutions can be obtained through the Association of Universities and Colleges of Canada, the Association of Canadian Community Colleges, or the Canadian Centre for International Credentials.
Private career and vocational schools
Unlike with public schools, provincial governments in Canada do not necessarily regulate private schools. If you are thinking of applying for a private school, make sure you choose one that meets provincial education requirements. For more information, contact the National Association of Career Colleges.
Language schools
If you’re interested in expanding your knowledge of foreign languages, Canada has a wide range of language schools for you to choose from, teaching English and/or French as a second language.
Language programs in public schools are regulated by provincial governments. Language Canada is a great resource for more information on private language programs.
No comments:
Post a Comment