Canadian Overview

Who is Responsible

Who is responsible for Canada’s education system?

Canada’s education system is not centrally controlled by the federal government. The Constitution Act of 1867 made the provinces responsible for education, which has led to 13 self-governing education systems in Canada.

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In the 10 provinces and 3 territories there are provincial and territorial departments of education.  Some provinces use the term "ministry" instead of "department."

At the head of the department is the Minister of Education who is responsible for education legislation and policy.

Even though there is no federal ministry of education, Canada does have a Council of Ministers of Education, Canada (CMEC).  It is an intergovernmental body founded in 1967 that provides an opportunity for ministers of education from the provinces and territories to discuss policy issues, consult with the federal government and represent Canada’s educational interests internationally.

The department of education in each province and territory governs the public schools. The department sets standards, develops curricula and funds public school systems in their province or territory. They also look after teacher certification processes and school support services.

Education and Early Childhood Development (EECD) is the provincial department in Nova Scotia.

How is the education system managed?

Answer

Management of the public school system in Canada is the responsibility of each province and territory

  • More Reading

    More Reading: Council of Ministers of Education, Canada

    CMEC provides leadership in education at the pan-Canadian and international levels and contributes to the exercise of the exclusive jurisdiction of provinces and territories over education.