English primary classes in Canada for international students

Receiving a quality secondary education is the foundation that is laid from childhood. Without this foundation, it is impossible to study successfully at university. Western schooling is structured in such a way that in high school all efforts are thrown into preparing for higher education. This is the reason why parents of schoolchildren, who care about their children's education and want them to study at a foreign university, send them to foreign schools.

One of the most developed countries in terms of education (not only) is Canada. The state annually invests huge sums in the development of this industry. The high quality of education in Canada is evidenced by the good equipment of its schools, whether public or private.

Studying at schools in Canada takes 12 years old, from 6 to 18 years. The school is divided into two parts: elementary and secondary (Secondary or High). As for primary education in Canada, children study from grades 1 to 8, in secondary - from 9 to 12. There are two more pre-school classes at schools - Junior and Senior Kindergarten. These classes are optional.

Primary education is free and compulsory for students. It is conducted in one of the state languages ​​- English or French. The language of instruction depends on the province.

Primary education in Canada is presented by public and catholic schools. Catholics are also funded by the state. There are, of course, private schools in Canada.

• Canada offers an exceptional education system that spans 12 years. Beginning around ages 5-6 and typically concluding between 16-18, the exact age varies depending on the specific province or territory. Here's what you should know about primary schools in Canada:

• Variety of Choices: Whether you're interested in Public Schools, Private Schools, or even the few renowned private boarding schools that have earned recognition far beyond Canada, there are options to suit every need.

• Home Schooling: While it's less common (less than 1% of the student population opts for it), homeschooling is available, driven mostly by parental choice. Materials for this method are easily accessible online.

• Public Schools: Encompassing 92% of the student population, these schools are free for both citizens and residents of Canada.

• Private Schools: Hosting about 7% of students, private schools in Canada come with obligatory fees. However, they offer benefits like expansive campuses, top-notch equipment, comfortable accommodations, smaller class sizes, and highly skilled educators. Remarkably, they often outperform counterparts in countries like Switzerland and the UK in terms of quality, while remaining more affordable. Some private schools also offer boarding facilities.

• Special Focus: Many primary schools in Canada, particularly private ones, emphasize holistic child development. This includes not just academic learning but also activities in sports, arts, and music, often using the latest technologies.

Anna Parkhomenko

Ridley College Admission Manager

What does make Canadian schools special? Why do parents from all over the world choose Canada primary and secondary schools for their children?

First of all, it is a high level of education, which is recognized throughout the world. Canada is the most educated country on the planet, so the culture of education is at the highest level here. All schools in Canada - public, private, independent - follow a provincial curriculum, and all educators are required to hold a teaching degree and certification. All these factors convince families that no matter which school they choose, their children will receive a first-class education.

• Diverse Duration: Education starts in kindergarten and continues through twelfth grade, usually commencing in late August and wrapping up by late June.

• Language Flexibility: Classes are conducted in English or French, contingent on the region.

• Balanced Approach: Emphasis on both academic and extracurricular activities ensures a well-rounded development.

• Safety: The emotional and physical well-being of children is prioritized. Inappropriate behavior towards children can lead to severe consequences.

Specifics of Primary School System in Canada

• Kindergarten: Initiates at ages 4 or 5 and extends till age 6. In regions like Ontario, it's split into Junior and Senior Kindergarten. The teaching method is gentle, incorporating playful activities.

• Elementary or Primary School: Depending on the province, elementary schools cover grades one through six or eight. They offer unique features like group seating instead of individual desks, and an emphasis on group tasks. The grading system is distinctive, focusing on progress rather than just marks.

• High or Secondary School: Covering grades 7-12 or sometimes just 9-12, this stage prepares students for tertiary education, emphasizing subjects that align with future educational goals.

Living Arrangements: Foreign students at public schools usually stay with vetted host families. Private schools offer both on-campus and host family accommodations.

Entertainment and Activities: Primary schools in Canada ensure a vibrant environment. From themed events like Pajama Day to visits from charity organizations, students are kept engaged beyond just academic pursuits. Interaction with peers from different grades fosters a sense of community and responsibility.

Admission Requirements: Typically, international students aged 13 and above can enroll in Canadian schools, with some exceptions for younger students. Entry requirements include previous school records, proficiency in English or French, a birth certificate, and a passport. Having awards and certificates can provide an edge during admissions.

If you're contemplating an education in one of the top primary schools in Canada, you're making a choice that promises a comprehensive, well-rounded educational experience. Whether you're curious about primary schools Canada fees, or seeking the best primary schools in Canada for foreign students, there's a wealth of options awaiting your exploration.

For international students and their families, enrolling in primary schools in Canada can be a unique opportunity to experience one of the world's top educational systems. The process, while straightforward, requires careful attention to details and timelines. To start, the most crucial step is to identify the province or territory in which the family wishes the child to study. Each province and territory in Canada is responsible for its education system, and therefore, the specific requirements can vary.

The application process generally begins with thorough research on schools within the desired region. Some primary schools may have programs specially designed for international students, while others may have limited experience or capacity to accommodate them. It is recommended to reach out directly to the schools or the school boards to understand the admission requirements, timelines, and any associated fees. Essential documentation typically includes the child's birth certificate, proof of residence or guardianship in Canada, immunization records, and academic transcripts or reports from previous schools. Depending on the school and its location, there may also be a requirement for an English or French language proficiency assessment if these aren't the student's first languages.

Once the desired schools are identified and the necessary documentation is prepared, families can proceed with the application. This often involves filling out an enrollment form, submitting the required documents, and sometimes, attending an interview or orientation session. For international students, there will be additional paperwork concerning study permits. Before a child can attend primary school in Canada, they typically need a study permit issued by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). This permit requires a letter of acceptance from the school, proof of sufficient funds to support the student's stay, and other standard immigration documents.

In summary, while applying to primary schools in Canada for international students is a multi-step process, the promise of high-quality education in a diverse and inclusive environment makes the effort worthwhile. By understanding regional requirements, gathering the necessary documentation, and ensuring all immigration procedures are followed, international students can embark on a rewarding educational journey in Canada.

Pursuing primary education in Canada as an international student is an enticing prospect due to the nation's reputation for high-quality schooling. However, it's essential for families to be aware of the associated costs, which can be considerably different from those faced by domestic students. As each province and territory in Canada manages its education system, the costs can vary widely based on location, school district, and specific institutions.

Tuition fees are the most significant expense for international students. Unlike domestic students who generally attend public schools without tuition costs, international students are often required to pay fees that can range anywhere from CAD 8,000 to CAD 15,000 or more per year, depending on the school and province. For instance, schools in major cities like Vancouver or Toronto may have higher fees than those in smaller towns or rural areas. It's also worth noting that private institutions, which sometimes attract international families due to specialized programs or smaller class sizes, will typically have higher tuition fees than public schools.

Beyond tuition, there are additional costs to consider. These can include application or registration fees, which might be non-refundable, regardless of whether the student is accepted. Uniforms, textbooks, extracurricular activities, and school trips might also carry extra charges. Additionally, if the school offers special services tailored to international students, such as English as a Second Language (ESL) support, there might be additional fees associated with these services.

Lastly, while not directly tied to the educational institution, families should account for living expenses in Canada. This encompasses housing, food, transportation, health insurance, and other daily expenses. These costs can be significant and vary based on the family's lifestyle and the city of residence. In summary, while Canada offers an excellent primary education system, international families should undertake a comprehensive financial assessment to ensure they're prepared for the associated costs.

Primary education in Canada usually starts at age 5 or 6, depending on the province or territory. Children are required to attend school.

In Canada, primary education is mainly provided in public and private schools. Public schools are funded by the government and follow the curriculum set by the province or territory. Private schools, on the other hand, are independently run and may offer different educational concepts. Both types of schools are open to international students.

Yes, international students may attend public elementary schools in Canada. However, it is important to consult with the particular school or school district regarding their policies, enrolment requirements and any additional fees that may be charged to international students.

English language requirements for international students in elementary school may vary by province, school district and school. Some schools may require students to demonstrate a certain level of English proficiency, while others may offer English language support programs for non-native English speakers.

Yes, international students can study in French-speaking elementary schools in Canada, especially in provinces such as Quebec and parts of New Brunswick and Ontario where French is the official language. These schools provide education primarily in French, and while they are open to international students, a certain level of French proficiency may be required to start.

In some cases, financial aid programs or scholarships may be available to international students. Schools do not offer full funding, but may offer discounts and scholarships if the student has academic or athletic achievements.

Elementary education is better at a private school because students are given more attention during the adjustment phase, as academic progress is fully supervised.

The cost varies depending on the school and its rating. The minimum cost of tuition at an elementary school without accommodation starts at 20,000 Canadian dollars per year. The cost of tuition with accommodation in a boarding school starts at 45,000 Canadian dollars per year.

In elementary school in Canada, students learn basic subjects such as math, English, geography, history, science and arts. Education also includes physical education and skill-building activities.

Canada's elementary schools have support programs for children with special educational needs. These may include individualized learning plans, support from specialized teachers and special education resources to provide the best possible support for each student.