Schooling for Children

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Schooling for Children

For new immigrant families arriving in Canada with their children, the education of their kids is one of the most crucial tasks after landing. Canada offers free compulsory education, but policies vary slightly from province to province. Here is a practical guide to the public education system, school district division, and the enrollment process.
✅ Introduction to the Canadian Public Education System
School Level
Age
Equivalent Grade in China
Compulsory Education?
Kindergarten
4 - 5 years old
Senior Kindergarten
Yes (varies by province)
Elementary School
6 - 11 years old
Grades 1 - 6 in primary school
Yes
Middle School / Junior High
12 - 13 years old
Grades 1 - 2 in junior high school
Yes
High School
14 - 17 years old
Grade 3 in junior high school + High school
Yes, until before the age of 18 or the end of Grade 12

Some provinces (such as Ontario) offer "Full - day Kindergarten". It is recommended that parents learn about the policies of their province in advance.


School District System & School Selection Principles

  • Canada operates a school district system. Children usually have to attend the school assigned to their residential address.

  • During enrollment, children will be automatically assigned to the corresponding primary or secondary school based on the residential address you provide.

  • If your residential address is in an area bordering multiple schools, you can apply for a "school transfer" or choose a specific program (such as French Immersion).

Parents can check the school district division map (School Locator) on the official website of the local school board. For example:School District Inquiry of the Toronto District School Board (TDSB).


Overview of the Enrollment Process

  1. Confirm your residential address: Ensure you have a rental contract or property ownership certificate.

  2. Prepare materials: The common materials required for enrollment are as follows

  3. Make an appointment for registration: Contact the school for registration through its official website or by phone.

  4. Interview / Placement assessment (depending on age): Some school boards will arrange English proficiency assessments (especially for middle school students).

  5. Determine the start date of school: Usually, school starts in September, but students can enroll throughout the year.

It is recommended to contact the school 2 - 4 weeks in advance, especially during the September enrollment season when places are tight.


List of Documents Required for Enrollment

  • The child's passport or birth certificate

  • Parents' work permits / study permits / COPR and other legal identity documents

  • Rental contract / utility bill and other proof of residence

  • Vaccination records (can be in Chinese; vaccinations can be 补种 after enrollment)

  • Transfer records / transcripts (if the child has attended school in their home country)

If you don't have all the documents in English, don't worry. Most school boards can provide translation assistance or arrange Chinese - speaking staff.


Special Courses and Language Support

  • All school boards offer ESL (English as a Second Language) courses for children of new immigrants.

  • Some schools offer French Immersion courses or special talent programs (such as art, music).

  • Parents can apply for Before & After School Programs, which are suitable for working - class families.

Some Catholic school boards also accept non - Catholic families. You just need to submit the relevant application form.


Tips

  • If the child is between 4 - 5 years old when arriving in Canada, it is recommended to contact the school as soon as possible to arrange kindergarten enrollment.

  • If you arrive during the summer vacation, it is advisable to prepare English translations of transcripts / vaccination records in advance in your home country.

  • Don't focus solely on school rankings. Consider comprehensive factors such as the commute to school, safety, and extracurricular activities.

  • Students can apply for student transit cards (such as Presto cards) during their school years and enjoy student discounts.

  • If the child starts school a bit late, don't worry. The school board will assign classes based on their abilities.


Summary

A child's smooth enrollment in school is an important indicator of a stable life for new immigrant families. By preparing the documents in advance, understanding the school district and the enrollment process, and taking the initiative to contact the school, your child can adapt to the new environment as soon as possible and grow healthily in the new education system.