Basic education in Canada is mandatory until the age of 16 in all provinces except Manitoba, Ontario, and New Brunswick, where education is mandatory until the age of 18 or until the student receives a high school diploma. This has created an educated generation, with only 1 in 10 people not having a high school diploma. The education system consists of several stages, starting with kindergarten at the age of five and ending with secondary education at the age of 16 or 18. The school year in Canada starts in September, the day after Labor Day, and ends in late June. Public education in Canada is overseen and funded by federal, provincial, and local governments and local school boards. Each province and territory manages its educational system within its geographical area, with the federal government being somewhat involved by providing funding for specific educational programs, such as education in remote areas and for Indigenous peoples.
Structure and Classifications of the Canadian Public Education System:

Kindergarten (pre-school): This stage starts at the age of five in all provinces except Ontario and Quebec, where it starts at the age of four. This stage is optional in some provinces but mandatory in British Columbia. Even in optional areas, most children attend kindergarten in a variety of institutions, including public and private schools, daycare centers, charities, and religious schools, where parents choose what suits them best.

Primary Education: This is a mandatory stage in Canada, starting usually at the age of 6 and continuing until the age of 12 or 13, covering grades from 1 to 6 or 8. Various institutions provide primary education, including public, private, and religious schools. Parents can choose homeschooling, which allows them to educate their children at home instead of sending them to public or private schools. Homeschooling has certain legal requirements; parents must register their children with the relevant primary education authorities and comply with their legal requirements. The program allows parents to determine the curriculum and educational materials, whether the curriculum is approved by the authorities or others. Parents must provide periodic reports on the child’s progress and administer the necessary exams for evaluation. Educational authorities conduct home visits to ensure the educational process is proceeding well.

Secondary Education: This stage is a fundamental part of the Canadian education system, offering students the opportunity to develop their skills and knowledge and prepare for the job market and higher education. It starts at the age of 12 or 13 and continues until the age of 16 or 18, covering grades 9 to 12, with senior grades allowing students aged 17 and 18 to choose suitable specializations. There are significant differences between provinces at this stage. For example, some provinces do not require final exams for high school graduation but rely on a points or credit system. Some offer specialized programs in fields like science, technology, the arts, sports, and social studies.