With the presence of Catholic school boards in Canada, a whole additional avenue of possible school options is available to families considering study abroad opportunities across the country. Catholic public-school boards operate under the same provincial education guidelines as their secular counterparts. A number of misconceptions exist around what education might look like in a Catholic public school and it is important to understand the key components which set these schools apart and make them a viable option for consideration for international students seeking placement in Canada.

 

Catholic School for Non-Catholics

Students of all backgrounds are welcome in Catholic high schools in Canada. It is not uncommon for 50% of the school’s population to be from diverse religions or have no religious affiliation. Catholic high schools are publicly funded and publicly accessible. Families choose Catholic education because of strong academics, a sense of community, and shared values: respect, compassion, and social responsibility. The goal of Catholic schools is not to indoctrinate students, but to provide a values-based education intent on developing well-rounded, responsible, and caring citizens.

 

Catholic Curriculum vs Public Secular Curriculum

Catholic high schools follow the same provincial curriculum as their secular counterparts. Students are expected to meet the same outcomes in both the Catholic school board and the public-school board. Academically, students in Catholic high schools have performed equally, or better, on standardized tests. They follow the same pathway to post-secondary, and are eligible for the same scholarships and financial awards as students in secular schools. Catholic high schools tend to be smaller in size, and have fewer students, resulting in smaller class sizes. Catholic schools have high academic standards, a personalized approach to teaching, form strong partnerships with parents, and create safe and supportive learning environments. Strong traditions of academic excellence are rooted in lifelong values. Schools work to provide a learning environment that fosters confidence, resilience, and a sense of purpose.

 

Ambassador Programs to Enhance Experience

Some Canadian Catholic high schools have implemented Ambassador/Global Citizenship Programs. Designed to support international students and develop natural, authentic relationships before arrival and throughout the school year, Canadian student ambassadors establish early contact with incoming international students, introduce students to the school and local community, and plan activities throughout the year. Having that early contact prior to arrival reassures incoming international students, knowing a familiar face is already waiting for them in Canada.

 

Extra-curricular Activities

Catholic high schools provide the same, if not more, opportunities for international students to participate in athletic teams, clubs, and extra-curricular activities. Smaller school populations mean more students can play on sports teams, and many opportunities exist to join school clubs and activities. International students find the surplus of extra-curriculars are a wonderful way to become involved in school life, make friends, and be part of the school community. The arts, athletics, leadership, and service are all areas where students can become involved in school life beyond the classroom.

 

Support

Small schools with smaller class sizes mean staff get to know students very well and are attentive to student needs and struggles. The nurturing environment of a Catholic high school, and the culture of love and respect, helps international students settle into life in Canada, and find assistance when needed. Comprehensive student services support is available to all students in the school population.

 

Uniforms or No Uniforms

Some public Catholic high schools do require uniforms, and some do not. Those that do have a uniform policy do so to instil a sense of belonging and decorum and reduce social pressure, allowing students to focus on their learning. Even those schools with a uniform policy have special days throughout the year where students can wear what they choose. International students attending a public Catholic school with a uniform requirement would be assisted in ordering their kit in advance of arrival so they have everything they need for the start of school. Those schools that do not have a uniform policy generally allow students to wear what they choose throughout the year, although some may have a dress code.

 

Five Reasons to Choose a Catholic School Experience

1. Strong academic standards based on provincial curriculum outcomes
2. A values-based approach which focuses on the whole child: mind, body, and spirit
3. Inclusive, welcoming school communities that emphasize respect, service, belonging, and making a meaningful difference in the world
4. Safe and supportive learning environments with strong staff/student relationships, fostering confidence, resilience, and a sense of purpose
5. A well-rounded educational experience with opportunities in academics, athletics, arts, and leadership

 

Final Thoughts

There are many reasons to consider a Catholic public-school education in Canada. The same curricular expectations as secular schools, welcoming environment for non-Catholic students, small class sizes, expansive opportunities for extra-curricular participation, and school culture and family-like atmosphere are all positive factors in the decision-making process. With the same pathways to post-secondary education and scholarships open through the Catholic school system, international students and their families should weigh this option carefully when choosing a Canadian study-abroad experience.

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