The Educational System in Canadian Primary Schools

The primary school education system in Canada is governed by each province and may have slight differences in programs and structure. However, the general principles are similar and common features can be noted:

1. Structure and timing of primary schools

• Starting age: Children usually enter primary school at the age of 6 or 7, but there is also preschool  (Kindergarten) for 4 or 5 year olds.
• Length of the academic year: The academic year in Canada is usually from September to June (about 9 months). This duration may vary slightly depending on the province and school.
• Start and end times of the school day: Usually school days are from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., with an hour or two break for lunch and exercise.

2. Primary school curriculum and lessons

Coursework in Canadian primary schools includes:

• Language: Teaching English or French (depending on the province). In some provinces, such as Quebec, French is the primary language.
• Mathematics: Includes basic concepts such as addition and subtraction, multiplication and division, and in higher years geometry and simple equations.
• Science:  Basic sciences including biology, physics, and chemistry.
• Social Studies: The History, Geography, and Culture of Canada and Other Countries.
• Arts and Music: Teaching painting, drawing, and music.
• Physical Education: Exercise and physical activities to promote physical health.
• Social and Emotional Skills Training: Programs to Enhance Social Interactions and Communication Skills.

3. Public and private schools

• Public Schools: It is free for all residents of Canada and is under the supervision of the Ministry of Education of the provinces.
• Private Schools: Some private schools are for families who tend to offer specific education, such as foreign language programs, more arts, or sports programs.

4. Assessment and Grading

• Grading system: Grades are usually based on a child's performance on exams, projects, and class contributions.
• Grading and progress reporting: In many schools, progress reports are sent to parents every few months.

5. Vacations and academic breaks

• Summer vacation: from June to September (usually about 2 months).
• Winter holidays: usually from mid-December to early January.
• Spring break: usually in March or April for a week.
• Public holidays: Holidays such as Canada Day (July 1) and Labor Day (September) are also holidays.

6. Differences in provinces

• Ontario and British Columbia: They have a similar system that places a strong emphasis on math, science, and English language education.
• Quebec: In Quebec, French is taught as the primary language, and the curriculum may have some differences compared to other provinces.
• Alberta: The province has educational programs focused on developing technical and business skills for children.

7. Supervision and government bodies

Primary schools are under the supervision of various organs at the provincial level:

• In Ontario,  the Ministry of Education is responsible for supervising primary schools.
• In Quebec, the Ministère de l'Éducation is responsible.
• Also, Child Care Canada works to oversee child care facilities and primary schools.

Resources and List of Approved Schools

To get a list of approved schools in each province and city, you can visit the websites related to education in each province:

• Ontario Ministry of Education: Ontario Schools
• Quebec Ministry of Education: Ministère de l'Éducation
• British Columbia Ministry of Education: BC Education