How to Become a Teacher in Canada
Finding a teaching job in Canada can be daunting, and navigating the requirements and processes can often be a nuisance for candidates. However, fear not, as this comprehensive guide is here to assist you every step of the way.
Canada offers tremendous professional opportunities for teachers, along with competitive salaries, comprehensive benefits packages, a high standard of living, and a diverse cultural experience. Whether you’re an international candidate dreaming of teaching in the Great White North or a Canadian resident seeking a career change, this article will provide invaluable insights on how to become a teacher in Canada.
Continue reading to discover the qualifications, express entry options, and job prospects awaiting you in this promising field.
How the Canadian Education System Works?
The Canadian education system encompasses kindergarten education for children around four or five, followed by primary and secondary education spanning grades one to 12, commonly known as ‘K-12’ or ‘K to 12’.Â
The academic year begins in late August and ends in late June, with English-language and French-language schools available nationwide. While provincial governments set the curricula, local School Boards handle administration, human resources, and student enrollment. After completing grade 12, students receive a high school diploma, and post-secondary education options are provided by universities, colleges, and institutes.
This system lays a strong foundation for students and prepares them for future academic and professional pursuits.
About Express Entry for Teachers in Canada
When pursuing a teaching career in Canada, the Express Entry system is the best route for anyone looking to secure a job opportunity there. Express Entry is a streamlined immigration process designed to facilitate the entry of skilled workers into Canada, including teachers.
It’s crucial to understand the teacher’s National Occupational Classification (NOC) codes to make the most of the Express Entry system as a teacher. NOC codes categorise different occupations and help determine the eligibility of candidates for specific job roles.Â
The relevant NOC codes for teachers are 4031/41220 and 4032/41221.
When applying for teaching positions in Canada, candidates should focus on obtaining the appropriate NOC code that aligns with their specialisation and experience. These codes highlight the specific skills and qualifications required for teaching jobs and assist in evaluating candidates during the Express Entry process.
Requirements for Becoming a Teacher in Canada
To pursue a teaching career in Canada, aspiring educators must fulfil some specific qualifications and requirements. These include:
- Qualified Degree, Diploma, or Certificate: Obtaining a recognised degree, diploma, or certificate is a fundamental requirement. In some cases, you may need to obtain an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) to validate the legitimacy and compliance of your qualification with Canadian standards.
- Provincial Teaching Certificate: Acquiring a provincial teaching certificate and license is crucial. This process typically involves joining a teacher’s association in your selected province or territory, which will provide the necessary guidance and requirements to obtain the certification.
- Proficiency in English or French (for Quebec): In the province of Quebec, fluency in either English or French is required due to its unique language policies. Demonstrating proficiency in one of these languages is essential to fulfilling the teaching requirements in Quebec.
- Police Background Clearance Certificate: It is mandatory to present a police background clearance certificate issued within the last six months. This certificate ensures the absence of any criminal record that may hinder your eligibility as a teacher.
- Work Visa and Residence Permit: Canada’s immigration service issues work visas and, if necessary, residence permits for individuals seeking employment as teachers. These documents are essential for legally working and residing in Canada.
- Positive References: Providing two positive references from current or prior employment in the field of education is crucial. These references prove your skills, abilities, and professional conduct in an educational setting.
Please note that eligibility criteria may vary for teaching positions, such as high school teachers, elementary school teachers, and college-level instructors. Researching and understanding the specific requirements for the teaching role you wish to pursue is essential.
Step-by-Step Instructions on How to Become a Teacher in Canada
If you are an Indian teacher with a dream of teaching in Canada, here is a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process of becoming a teacher in Canada. Follow these essential steps to turn your aspirations into reality:
Get certified to teach in Canada
The first and foremost requirement is obtaining the necessary certification to teach in Canada. Research the specific requirements for teaching credentials in the province where you intend to work. This may include completing an additional qualification program or having your existing qualifications assessed and recognised.
Migrate to Canada using Express Entry
To immigrate to Canada as a skilled worker, consider utilising the Express Entry system. Express Entry is an online system that manages applications for permanent residency. Here’s a table summarising the factors that will be assessed when creating an Express Entry profile as an Indian teacher looking to migrate to Canada:
| Factors to be Assessed for Express Entry Profile | Description |
| Education | Assessment of educational qualifications and degrees |
| Work Experience | Evaluation of relevant teaching experience |
| Language Proficiency | Proficiency in English or French languages |
| CRS Score | Points are awarded based on various factors. |
| ITA | Meeting the CRS cutoff score can result in ITA Points awarded based on various factors. |
| Permanent Residency Application | Applying for permanent residency. |
It’s important to note that these factors are assessed to determine eligibility for the Express Entry system and a potential invitation to apply for permanent residency in Canada. Meeting the specific requirements and scoring high in the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) can increase your chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency.
Apply for certification with the federal government of Canada
Once you have successfully obtained your teaching credentials, you must apply for accreditation with the federal government of Canada. This process involves submitting your documents, qualifications, and relevant information to the appropriate regulatory body. They will review your application and assess your eligibility to teach in Canada.
By following these steps, you can embark on your journey towards becoming a teacher in Canada. The country welcomes skilled educators from around the world, and as an Indian teacher, you bring unique experiences and perspectives to Canadian classrooms.
To access further information and join our free webinar, take the next step towards your Canadian teaching career. This webinar will provide in-depth knowledge, answer your questions, and equip you with the tools to navigate Canada’s teaching process successfully.
How ISA Global Can Help?
If you are planning to migrate to Canada for work, ISA Global can help make your journey smooth and stress-free. As one of India’s leading immigration services firms, our team of experienced consultants can guide and support you throughout the visa application process. Here’s how we can help:
- IELTS Preparation: We offer a comprehensive IELTS training program that combines e-learning materials and trainer support, available over the phone and online.
- Documentation: We’ll review your documents and provide a detailed checklist of all required documents. We’ll also help you obtain any additional documents that may be necessary.
- Application Filing: After collecting all the required documents, we’ll assist you in filing your application under Express Entry and relevant Provincial Nominee Programs.
- Post-Invitation Assistance: After receiving an ITA, we’ll provide end-to-end guidance for obtaining police clearance certificates and medical reports and scheduling your biometrics.
- Post-Landing Services: After you receive your visa, our team can assist you in finding a job, opening a bank account, and applying for a social insurance number (SIN).
By choosing ISA Global, you’ll have access to a team of experts who will guide you throughout the immigration process from start to finish. We aim to make your transition to Canada as smooth as possible, helping you find a job and settle into your new life in Canada.
Contact ISA Global today to learn how we can help you realise your dreams of working in Canada.
Conclusion
Finding a teaching job in Canada can be challenging, but this comprehensive guide is here to help you every step of the way. Canada offers excellent opportunities for teachers with competitive salaries, benefits, and a high standard of living. Whether you’re an international candidate or a Canadian resident seeking a career change, this article has provided valuable insights on becoming a teacher in Canada.
From understanding the Canadian education system to navigating the Express Entry system, meeting the requirements, and following the step-by-step instructions, you now know to pursue your teaching career in Canada.
ISA Global supports you throughout the immigration process, from IELTS preparation to documentation, application filing, and post-landing services. Contact us today to make your dreams of working as a teacher in Canada a reality.
To learn more and receive further assistance, attend our free webinar and take the next step towards your Canadian teaching career. This webinar will provide in-depth information, answer your questions, and equip you with the tools to succeed.
