Educational System

Educational System

In Canada,  Middle School or Junior High is a stage of the education system that is generally designed for students aged 11 to 14. This course is a transition period between primary and secondary school and usually includes grades 6 to 9 (depending on the province). Here is the full information:

Training Duration and Timing

  • Course duration: Usually 3 years (grades 6-8 or 7-9 depending on the province and region).
  • Start and end of the academic year:
    • The school year starts in September and ends in June.
    • The main holidays include winter holidays (December to January), spring holidays (March), and summer holidays (July and August).
  • School Hours:
    • Usually from 8:30 am to 3:00 pm.

Subjects

The curriculum at Middle School includes a variety of subjects that prepare students for high school:

  1. Core Subjects :
    • English/French Language and Literature: Strengthening reading, writing, and comprehension skills.
    • Mathematics: More advanced concepts such as geometry, elementary algebra, and data.
    • Science: Subjects such as biology, chemistry, physics, and geology.
    • Social Studies: The History, Geography, and Culture of Canada and the World.
  2. Optional and Art Courses:
    • Visual arts (painting, sculpture).
    • Music (playing, singing).
    • Theater and Theater.
  3. Physical Education and Health:
    • Sports Activities.
    • Physical and mental health education.
  4. Computer Technology and Science:
    • Basic programming.
    • Digital design and application software use.
  5. Life Skills Training:
    • Teamwork, time management, and problem solving.
    • Familiarity with social responsibilities and citizenship.

Features and Facilities of Midle School Schools

  • Educational Environment:
    • Students usually have separate tutors for each subject.
    • Some schools offer programs specifically for students with gifted or special needs.
  • Extracurricular Activities:
    • Sports clubs, arts, music, and science programs.
    • Training camps and social activities.

Assessment and Grading

  • Grading System:
    • It is usually based on percentages or letters (A,  B, C, D).
    • Some schools use a progress reporting system that is based on students' performance and learning goals.
  • Periodic Reports:
    • It is usually provided to parents every semester or quarter.

Regulatory Bodies

  • Middle schools are under the supervision of the provincial Ministry of Education.
  • Provinces and school boards are responsible for planning and monitoring the performance of schools.

Guidance for Newcomers

  1. School Choice:
    • To find public and private schools in the area, seek help from provincial school boards.
    • In cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Ottawa, educational boards like TDSB, VSB, and OCDSB provide complete guidance.
  2. Second Language:
    •  ESL/FSL (English/French as a Second Language) remedial programs are available for immigrant students.
  3. Social integration:
    • Canadian schools pay special attention to the integration of immigrant students and the enhancement of social and communication skills.

Resources for Finding Schools

  • Toronto District School Board (TDSB): TDSB
  • Vancouver School Board (VSB): VSB
  • Ottawa-Carleton District School Board (OCDSB): OCDSB