Education and Schools in Ottawa

If you’re a parent moving to Ottawa, you’ll be pleased to find that the city has high-quality English and French schools. The education system in Ontario offers diverse opportunities to ensure your children thrive.

The Ontario Ministry of Education provides publicly funded education from kindergarten to Grade 12. If you have young kids, you’ll also find that Ottawa supports early learners with numerous centres dedicated to play-based learning, helping children get the best possible start.

Public schools in Ottawa

Public schools in Ottawa offer education in both English and French, with over 60 French-language public schools currently operating. That said, most public schools in Ottawa are English. Many public schools also offer English as a Second Language (ESL) programmes, which can be priceless if your children are not fluent.

The general standard of education in Ottawa’s public schools is strong, but it’s always worth consulting with the school and speaking to other parents to get an accurate feel for the teaching standards and facilities on offer. Each school has its unique strengths, so doing your homework will pay off.

Useful links

• Ontario Ministry of Education
• Ottawa-Carleton District School Board (OCDSB)

Faith-based schools in Ottawa

Faith-based schools in Ottawa include institutions affiliated with Catholic, Jewish, Islamic, and Christian denominations. These schools offer a combination of academic learning and religious education, making them an appealing choice for families who value spiritual growth alongside academics. Beyond Catholic and Islamic institutions, Ottawa also has Christian schools, including classical Christian institutions that provide a faith-based classical education.

Tuition fees at faith-based schools are generally more affordable than private schools, and some are even publicly funded, making them free for students. These institutions follow the national curriculum while integrating religious teachings, providing a well-rounded approach with strong academic discipline.

Private schools in Ottawa

Private schools in Ottawa have seen steady interest over recent years, offering smaller class sizes and specialised programmes that many parents find attractive. While public schools continue to serve the majority of students, the bespoke approach of private schools draws families who prefer a tailored educational experience.

Ottawa’s private schools offer a variety of curricula, including the Ontario Curriculum, International Baccalaureate (IB), and the Montessori method. This diversity ensures a suitable option for your child’s educational philosophy. Private schools often provide exceptional facilities for extracurricular activities such as sports, music, and drama, enhancing students’ experiences beyond academics.

The level of education at private schools is generally higher than in public schools, thanks to smaller class sizes and individualised attention. If you’re looking for a unique educational approach or a specific learning environment, a private school could be just what you need.

Useful links

• Canadian Accredited Independent Schools (CAIS)

International schools in Ottawa

International schools in Ottawa serve the city’s substantial expat community, offering a range of curricula, including the International Baccalaureate (IB), British, and American educational frameworks. This diversity allows expat families to select a programme that best suits their home country’s system.

Competition for places in international schools can be fierce, so it’s important to start the application process early. Students usually need to complete entrance exams and attend interviews, and waiting lists can be lengthy. If the international school experience isn’t accessible, bilingual schools may offer a great alternative, with classes in both French and English to support language fluency.

Homeschooling in Ottawa

Homeschooling is a legal option in Ontario, provided you follow the correct procedures. You’ll need to notify the school board of your decision to homeschool your children annually, ideally before the start of the academic year, with a letter of intent with basic details about your child.

Homeschooling families in Ottawa can still benefit from resources within the public school system, such as assessments administered by the Education Quality and Accountability Office. Public libraries are an excellent resource for homeschooling materials and technology support. The Independent Learning Centre (ILC) is also available for distance learning and offers various full-, half-, and non-credit courses.

If you’re interested in supplementing homeschooling with mainstream learning, some schools in Ottawa provide hybrid options that include both traditional classes and distance learning. Community programmes and workshops can also provide valuable learning experiences for homeschooled students.

Useful links

• Ontario Homeschooling Information
• Independent Learning Centre (ILC)
• Education Quality and Accountability Office (EQAO)
• Ottawa Public Library

Special-needs education in Ottawa

All children, including those with special needs, have the right to an education in Ottawa. Schools in Ottawa are well-equipped to support students with behavioural, communication, intellectual, and physical challenges, ensuring that every child receives the care and attention they require.

Special-needs programmes in Ottawa are inclusive, adapting instruction and assessments based on each child’s specific needs. Assistive technology, such as speech-to-text software and communication devices, is increasingly used to support students effectively. Educators receive ongoing professional development to make the most of these new tools.

The school board will work with you to create an Individualised Education Plan (IEP) that lays out the necessary support and services your child will receive.

Useful links

• Ontario Special Education Information
• Learning Disabilities Association of Ontario (LDAO)
• Autism Ontario
• Ottawa-Carleton District School Board

Tutors in Ottawa

Finding a tutor in Ottawa is straightforward, with many private tutoring companies and online platforms available to help match your family with the right specialist. Services like TutorBright, Superprof, and FirstTutors: Canada are popular, providing expertise in various academic subjects. TutorLyft is another recent addition, offering both online and in-person tutoring without contracts, providing extra flexibility for busy families.

Useful links

• TutorBright
• Superprof Canada
• FirstTutors: Canada
• TutorLyft