Toronto District School Board (TDSB)
High school teaching in Canada offers educators the chance to shape young minds and prepare students for their futures. This post outlines high school teacher careers in Canada, covering salary expectations, qualifications, and the application process.
Overview of High School Teaching Jobs in Canada
High school teachers in Canada teach grades 9-12, specializing in subjects like math, science, or English. They prepare lessons, assess student progress, and support students as they approach graduation.
Key Responsibilities:
- Teaching and developing curriculum in specialized subject areas.
- Preparing lesson plans and delivering engaging classes.
- Assessing student progress through exams, assignments, and reports.
- Offering individualized support and mentorship to students.
- Collaborating with other teachers, parents, and school administrators.
- Participating in extracurricular activities and school events.
Salaries for High School Teachers in Canada
High school teacher salaries in Canada vary by province, experience, and school type. Salaries increase with experience and qualifications, such as a Master’s degree or specialized certifications.
Average Salary:
- Annual Salary: CAD 50,000 to CAD 95,000
- Hourly Rate: CAD 25 to CAD 45
Salary Breakdown by Province:
- Ontario: CAD 55,000 to CAD 95,000
- British Columbia: CAD 50,000 to CAD 85,000
- Alberta: CAD 60,000 to CAD 100,000
- Quebec: CAD 45,000 to CAD 80,000
- Nova Scotia: CAD 50,000 to CAD 75,000
- Saskatchewan: CAD 52,000 to CAD 85,000
Teachers in larger cities or wealthier provinces like Alberta and Ontario tend to earn higher salaries than those in smaller or more rural areas.
Requirements to Become a High School Teacher in Canada
1. Education
- Bachelor’s Degree: A Bachelor’s degree is required in the subject you wish to teach. For example, a degree in Mathematics if you want to teach high school math.
- Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.): In addition to a subject-specific degree, a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) degree is required. The B.Ed. program typically includes courses on teaching methods, curriculum development, and student assessment.
2. Certification
- Teaching Certification: All provinces and territories in Canada require high school teachers to be certified. After completing a B.Ed., you must apply for certification through the education authority in the province or territory where you wish to work.
- Ontario College of Teachers (OCT): For Ontario.
- British Columbia Teachers’ Council (BCTC): For British Columbia.
- Alberta Teaching Certificate: For Alberta.
- Quebec Teacher Certification: For Quebec.
Each province has specific certification requirements, so it’s important to research and apply according to your location.
3. Experience
- Student Teaching: Most B.Ed. programs include a practicum or student teaching experience where aspiring teachers gain hands-on experience in the classroom. This is an essential part of becoming a certified high school teacher.
- Additional Experience: Although not always required, previous experience as a tutor, teaching assistant, or volunteer in an educational setting can be advantageous.
4. Skills
- Subject Knowledge: Teachers must have a deep understanding of the subject area they teach.
- Classroom Management: High school teachers need to manage large groups of students and maintain a productive learning environment.
- Communication: Effective communication skills are essential for delivering lessons, engaging students, and collaborating with parents and colleagues.
- Adaptability: Teachers must be able to adjust their teaching methods to meet the diverse needs of students with different learning styles and backgrounds.
Top Employers for High School Teachers in Canada
High school teachers are employed in both public and private schools across Canada. Below are some of the most notable school boards and private schools that hire high school teachers:
1. Public School Boards
- Toronto District School Board (TDSB): The largest school board in Canada, offering a wide range of teaching positions across Ontario.
- Vancouver School Board (VSB): Known for its diverse student body and strong academic programs in British Columbia.
- Calgary Board of Education (CBE): A leading school board in Alberta with a focus on academic excellence and student development.
- Edmonton Public Schools: One of the largest school boards in Alberta, offering teaching opportunities in various subject areas.
- Montreal English School Board (EMSB): Quebec’s largest English-language school board, serving a diverse population in the Montreal area.
2. Private Schools
- Upper Canada College (UCC): A prestigious private school in Toronto offering competitive salaries and a strong academic environment.
- St. George’s School: A private school in Vancouver known for its rigorous academic programs and extracurricular activities.
- Appleby College: A leading private school in Oakville, Ontario, with a strong emphasis on student leadership and international education.
- The Bishop Strachan School (BSS): A private girls’ school in Toronto offering top-quality education and leadership opportunities.
3. Online and Alternative Schools
With the rise of virtual learning, many teachers are finding opportunities in online schools and distance learning programs, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic increased the demand for remote education.
How to Apply for High School Teaching Jobs in Canada
1. Search for Job Openings
High school teaching positions in Canada are posted on a variety of platforms, including:
- School Board Websites: Check individual school board websites for job postings. For example, the Toronto District School Board (TDSB), Vancouver School Board (VSB), and Calgary Board of Education (CBE) regularly post open teaching positions.
- Indeed: This platform often lists teaching positions in public and private schools across Canada.
- ApplyToEducation: A website that focuses on education jobs across Canada, allowing you to apply directly to school boards.
- Education Canada: A dedicated platform for education-related careers.
2. Prepare Your Application
When applying for a high school teaching position, a strong application package is essential. Your application should include:
- Resume/CV: Highlight your educational background, teaching experience, and certifications. Be sure to include any specialized skills or extracurricular activities that you can offer, such as coaching or mentoring.
- Cover Letter: Write a personalized cover letter that explains why you are passionate about teaching, your qualifications for the role, and how you can contribute to the school’s community.
- Teaching Philosophy: Some job applications may ask for a statement of your teaching philosophy, where you explain your approach to education, classroom management, and student engagement.
- Letters of Recommendation: Include references from previous employers, mentors, or supervisors who can speak to your teaching abilities and experience.
3. Certification and Licensing
After obtaining your Bachelor of Education degree, apply for teaching certification through the provincial authority where you plan to work. Certification can take a few months to process, so it’s essential to apply early.
4. Submit Your Application
Submit your application through the school board’s website or the relevant job portal. Ensure that all required documents are included and that your contact information is accurate.
5. Prepare for Interviews
Once you’re shortlisted, you’ll likely be invited for an interview. Be prepared to discuss your teaching methods, subject expertise, and classroom management strategies. In some cases, you may be asked to provide a teaching demonstration to showcase your skills in action.
Final Thoughts & Mode of Application
High school teachers in Canada enjoy rewarding careers with competitive salaries and growth opportunities. High demand exists in STEM, special education, and remote areas. Earning qualifications and provincial certification is key to a successful teaching career.