Canada is one of the most educated countries in the world. Education plays an important role in shaping Canada. This article explores the elementary and secondary school systems of Canada.
The 3 general levels of Canadian Schools
In terms of schools in Canada, they are broadly divided into 3 main levels:
> Elementary,
> Secondary &
> Post-Secondary schools
The following video clips will give you some insight into the schools.
Elementary schools, public schools by the Abbotsford School Board
Secondary School, FH International School, a private accredited high school in Toronto
First Year McGill University, by TVM, McGill own Student Television
Canadian Children and Adults Can Complete A Secondary Education
For adult Canadian residents who have not completed elementary or secondary education, they can still take adult education programs to help them gain a secondary school diploma by contacting the local ministry or department of education.
The Canadian law requires Canadian children to go to schools. Canadian children start schooling at the age of 5 or earlier and continue until they are between 16 and 18.
When Are the Canadian Elementary and Secondary Schools Open
The schools in Canada
- begin with kindergarten or preschool, this is voluntary
- are from grades 1 to 12 for the elementary and secondary schools
- start at the end of August or early September till the end of June for each school year
- run from Monday to Friday except during holidays
- give high school certificates to students after completing their secondary schools
- allow residents a choice of either English-language or French-language
Parents Would Decide
It is up to the parents to decide on the types of schooling and language for their children like:
- public schools which are usually free
- paid private schools
- at-home education
- English or French schools
For families arriving Canada during the school year, they can contact the school boards to enroll their children with a local school.
A Typical Canadian School Board
A Canadian local school board may be called different names like:
- school districts
- school divisions
- district education councils
These local school boards are responsible for:
- student enrolment
- staff of the schools
- administration
- buildings and properties of the local schools
The trustees, elected people who run the school boards, meet regularly to decide how the schools are managed. The public is able to attend some of the meetings to voice their views.
Always enroll your children well before the school year begins, especially if you are enrolling your children in Canada for the first time. That way, the school board can:
- assess your children
- place them in the appropriate grade levels and determine if they need free support like English or French classes
Most schools have support workers who will help the new students to integrate into the Canadian education system.