Job requirements Secondary School Teacher in Canada

Find out what you typically need to work as a secondary school teacher in Canada. These requirements are applicable to all Secondary school teachers (NOC 41220).

Employment requirements

This is what you typically need for the job.

  • Teachers of academic subjects require a bachelor's degree in education which is often preceded by a bachelor's degree in the arts or sciences.
  • Teachers of vocational or technical subjects require a bachelor's degree in education which is usually preceded by specialized training or experience in the subject.
  • Instructors of trades in Quebec require completion of an apprenticeship training program and industry or trade certification.
  • Department heads usually require several years of teaching experience.
  • To specialize in special education or English or French as a second language, additional training is required.
  • A provincial teaching certificate is required.
  • Membership in a provincial or territorial teachers' association or federation may be required.

Source National Occupational Classification

Professional certification and licensing

You might need to get a certification and/or license from a regulatory authority (or become registered as an apprentice) before you start working. Find out if this occupation is regulated and contact the regulatory authority to learn about the certification and/or licensing process.

Get your foreign credentials recognized in Canada

If you are a newcomer and want to work in a regulated job, you must have your training, education or work experience from another country assessed. This shows if your qualifications are recognized in Canada. This process is called foreign credential recognition.

The steps to get a license or certification are different in each province or territory. You will need to contact the regulatory authority where you want to work to learn what to do.

Did you know?

Getting your qualifications recognized and obtaining a professional license or certification in Canada can take time, money, and effort. If you need help, you can:

Manitoba

Job title Secondary School Teachers

Newfoundland and Labrador

Job title Secondary School Teacher

Ontario

Job title Secondary School Teacher
Regulated
Regulatory body: Ontario College of Teachers

Québec

Job title Secondary School Teacher

Saskatchewan

Job title Secondary School Teacher
Job title Music Teacher, Registered, Secondary School

Source Foreign Credential Recognition Program - ESDC

Do you want to work in another province or territory?

If you are already certified to work in a regulated occupation in your province or territory, it will be easier for you to have your certification recognized in another province or territory. See the Workers Mobility's website to learn more.

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