Education

To Become Elementary School Teacher (Generalist: teaches all subjects) in Ontario: Salary, Training, and Career Outlook

by Occupations.ca Team
12 min read

Are you drawn to helping children learn, grow, and discover their strengths, and wondering what it takes to become an elementary school teacher in Ontario? If you see yourself guiding students through reading, math, science, social studies, the arts, and physical education, the Elementary School Teacher (Generalist) pathway may be the right fit for you. In Ontario, this role is regulated, respected, and in steady demand—especially if you can teach French, Special Education, or in northern and rural regions. Below, you will find everything you need to know to enter and thrive in this career.

Job Description

Elementary school teachers in Ontario typically teach Kindergarten to Grade 8 in publicly funded English public, English Catholic, French public, or French Catholic school boards, as well as in private/independent schools. As a generalist, you teach most or all core subjects for your assigned grade(s). You use the Ontario Curriculum, adapt Instruction to meet diverse needs, and create a safe, inclusive, and engaging classroom.

You are responsible for the whole child—academic progress, social-emotional development, and well-being. You collaborate with families, colleagues, and community partners. In publicly funded schools, you must be certified by the Ontario College of Teachers (OCT). This ensures you meet professional standards, have completed an approved teacher education program, and follow ethical guidelines.

Daily work activities

Your day typically includes:

  • Planning lessons that align with the Ontario Curriculum and board policies.
  • Teaching multiple subjects (e.g., literacy, numeracy, science, social studies, arts, health and physical education).
  • Differentiating instruction and assessment to Support diverse learners, including students with Individual Education Plans (IEPs) and English/French language learners.
  • Monitoring progress and providing feedback.
  • Communicating with parents/guardians via emails, calls, meetings, progress reports, and report cards.
  • Collaborating with grade teams, special education staff, and support professionals (e.g., speech-language pathologists, social workers).
  • Supervising students (recess, lunch, field trips).
  • Participating in professional learning and staff meetings.
  • Leading or supporting extracurricular activities, as your schedule allows.

Main tasks

  • Deliver standards-based instruction using the Ontario Curriculum.
  • Create inclusive, culturally responsive, and safe learning environments.
  • Assess learning using diagnostic, formative, and summative tools; report achievement fairly and transparently.
  • Support students with Individual Education Plans (IEPs) and apply accommodations/modifications.
  • Integrate technology (e.g., learning Management systems, assessment tools, classroom tech).
  • Teach and model social-emotional skills (self-regulation, collaboration, resilience).
  • Communicate regularly with parents/guardians and caregivers.
  • Maintain accurate records (attendance, assessment, incident reports).
  • Follow school board policies and the Education Act of Ontario.
  • Engage in ongoing Professional Development and reflect on your practice.

Required Education

Becoming an Elementary Teacher in Ontario is a multi-step process. You must meet academic requirements, complete an approved teacher education program, and obtain professional certification.

Diplomas and degrees

  • Bachelor’s Degree (required): You need an undergraduate degree (typically 3–4 years) before or as part of a teacher education program. Many universities offer a concurrent (combined) program that awards both your undergraduate degree and a Bachelor of Education (BEd) in about five years total. Others offer a consecutive pathway: a 3–4 year degree followed by a 2-year teacher education program.
  • Teacher Education Program (required): In Ontario, the professional program is typically a 2-year BEd or an equivalent (for example, a 2-year Master of Teaching at OISE) that includes coursework and a minimum number of practicum days in schools. Programs are accredited under Ontario Regulation 347/02.
  • Certificates (post-certification): After certification, you can complete Additional Qualifications (AQs) and Additional Basic Qualifications (ABQs) (e.g., Special Education, French as a Second Language, Reading, ESL/ELL) to expand your skills and employability.
  • College Diploma (optional pathway): A college diploma alone does not qualify you to teach in publicly funded schools. However, diplomas—such as Early Childhood Education (ECE)—can be stepping stones. Some students complete a diploma, then pursue a degree and teacher education. Prior ECE experience is valued in Kindergarten settings.
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Note: Requirements can change. Always verify with the Ontario College of Teachers (OCT) and your chosen faculty of education.

Length of studies

  • Concurrent BEd: Typically 5 years total (undergraduate + BEd integrated).
  • Consecutive BEd: 3–4 years undergraduate degree + 2 years BEd.
  • OISE Master of Teaching (leads to OCT certification): 2 years after a bachelor’s degree.
  • Practicum: Ontario-accredited programs include extensive practicum; regulations require substantial in-school placement (Ontario Regulation 347/02 sets program requirements).

Certification and other requirements

To teach in publicly funded Ontario schools, you must:

  • Be certified by the Ontario College of Teachers (OCT).
  • Complete an accredited teacher education program recognized by OCT.
  • Submit official transcripts and documentation to OCT for evaluation.
  • Demonstrate language proficiency in English or French, as applicable.
  • Provide a Vulnerable Sector Check (VSC).
  • Meet any school board pre-employment requirements (e.g., medical/TB test, vaccination verification as applicable, mandatory Training).
  • Maintain good standing with OCT and your union (for public school roles).

Useful links:

Where to study? (Ontario faculties of education)

English-language programs:

French-language options (or bilingual options within Ontario):

Tip: Review each program’s division options (Primary/Junior, Junior/Intermediate) and specialty pathways (e.g., Indigenous education, French as a Second Language, technology-enhanced learning).

Salary and Working Conditions

Salary

Salaries for elementary teachers in Ontario are set by negotiated collective agreements between local school boards and the teachers’ union. They depend on your qualifications category (based on assessment by QECO for English boards or similar processes) and years of experience (“grid steps”). As a general guideline:

  • Entry-level annual salary: approximately $48,000–$62,000, depending on board, qualifications category, and grid step.
  • Experienced annual salary (top of grid): approximately $95,000–$104,000+, depending on board and category.

Most elementary teachers are members of the Elementary Teachers’ Federation of Ontario (ETFO). For specific salary grids, check your target school board’s collective agreement and ETFO local websites.

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Useful links:

Benefits and pension

  • Pension: Membership in the Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan (OTPP), one of Canada’s leading defined benefit pensions.
  • Benefits: Extended health, dental, life Insurance, and long-term disability are common (details vary by board).
  • Leaves: Paid sick leave provisions and other leaves (e.g., parental leave) are outlined in collective agreements and legislation.

Work schedule and conditions

  • School year: September to June, with PA days and holidays as per your board’s calendar.
  • Workday: Typically during school hours (e.g., 8:30 a.m.–4:00 p.m.), plus planning, assessment, communication with families, and occasional extracurriculars before/after school.
  • Preparation time: Guaranteed prep minutes per week are set by collective agreements; actual time varies by board and assignment.
  • Class size: Caps and averages are set by provincial policy and collective agreements. In general, primary classes are smaller, while junior/intermediate may be larger. Expect ranges roughly from low 20s in primary to mid/high 20s in junior/intermediate, with local variation.
  • Safety and Compliance: You must follow board policies, health and safety protocols, and student privacy rules.

Job outlook in Ontario

Ontario continues to need qualified elementary teachers, with stronger demand for:

  • French-language and French Immersion teachers.
  • Teachers with Special Education, ESL/ELL, Reading, Math, or Indigenous education expertise.
  • Teachers willing to work in northern, rural, and fast-growing suburban areas.

For labour market Information and occupation outlook data:

Competition varies by region and specialty. Building experience as an Occasional Teacher (OT) and securing Long-Term Occasional (LTO) positions are common steps toward permanent roles.

Key Skills

Soft skills

  • Communication: Clear, compassionate communication with students and families; culturally responsive interactions.
  • Classroom management: Positive routines, expectations, and restorative approaches.
  • Adaptability: Adjust instruction to diverse needs and changing circumstances.
  • Collaboration: Teamwork with grade partners, support staff, and community agencies.
  • Empathy and patience: Support for social-emotional learning, trauma-informed practices, and inclusive education.
  • Organization: Planning, assessment schedules, documentation, and time management.
  • Problem-solving: Data-informed decisions, responsive interventions, and creative teaching approaches.
  • Professionalism: Ethical practice aligned with OCT standards; continuous learning mindset.

Hard skills

  • Curriculum knowledge: Strong grasp of the Ontario Curriculum for P/J or J/I divisions.
  • Assessment and evaluation: Use of rubrics, success criteria, triangulation (observations, conversations, products).
  • Literacy and numeracy instruction: Evidence-based reading and math strategies, intervention frameworks.
  • Special Education: Understanding IEPs, universal design for learning, accommodations/modifications, tiered supports.
  • Technology: Digital platforms (e.g., learning management systems), assessment tools, classroom technology integration.
  • Second language: French (FSL or French Immersion) is a major asset; fluency can significantly improve job prospects.
  • Health and safety: Duty of care, incident documentation, and emergency procedures.
  • Indigenous education: Knowledge of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit perspectives and the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Advantages

  • Meaningful impact: You directly shape children’s learning and well-being.
  • Stable employment: Publicly funded education system with pension and benefits.
  • Professional growth: AQs, mentorship, Leadership pathways (e.g., curriculum lead, special education, administration).
  • Variety: Diverse subjects, projects, and extracurriculars; every day is different.
  • Community connection: Strong relationships with students, families, and colleagues.

Disadvantages

  • Workload: Planning, assessment, and communication can extend beyond school hours.
  • Classroom complexity: Managing diverse needs, behavioural challenges, and IEPs requires skill and stamina.
  • Hiring pathways: Many teachers start as Occasional then LTO before securing a permanent position.
  • Accountability and documentation: Detailed reporting and compliance requirements can be time-intensive.
  • Emotional demands: Supporting students’ well-being can be challenging; self-care and support networks are essential.
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Expert Opinion

If you are serious about becoming an elementary school teacher in Ontario, start by aligning your education and experiences with areas of high demand. Consider adding French, Special Education, ESL/ELL, Reading, or Math credentials as early as possible. During your teacher education program, aim for practicum placements in diverse settings—urban, suburban, rural, and special education—so you can build a strong portfolio and professional references.

Once certified, be strategic. Register on the major hiring platform (ApplyToEducation: https://www.applytoeducation.com) and with multiple boards, especially in regions open to new teachers. Take Occasional Teacher assignments to build your reputation and secure Long-Term Occasional roles; these often lead to permanent contracts. Volunteer for committees, coach teams, or lead clubs if your schedule allows—principals value visible commitment to the school community.

Invest in your professional learning. Complete Additional Qualifications that match student needs in your board. Learn the Ontario Curriculum deeply, track assessment data clearly, and develop a consistent, positive classroom management approach. Cultivate relationships with mentors, stay current with inclusive practices, and reflect on your teaching. These habits not only support student success but also make you a stronger candidate for permanent roles and future leadership positions.

FAQ

Do I need a Bachelor of Education (BEd) to teach in Ontario’s publicly funded schools?

Yes. You must complete an Ontario-accredited teacher education program (commonly a BEd or an equivalent program such as OISE’s Master of Teaching) and be certified by the Ontario College of Teachers (OCT) to teach in publicly funded schools (English public/Catholic and French public/Catholic). Some private/independent schools may hire non-certified teachers, but OCT certification is the standard and increases employability.

What is the typical hiring path to a permanent teaching job?

Many new teachers start as Occasional Teachers (OTs), then move into Long-Term Occasional (LTO) positions covering maternity or extended leaves, and then compete for permanent contract roles. Timelines vary by region and specialization. Teachers with French, Special Education, ESL/ELL, or Reading qualifications often advance faster to permanent positions.

I studied outside Canada. How do I become certified in Ontario?

Internationally educated teachers apply to the Ontario College of Teachers for an evaluation of credentials and experience. You may be asked for course outlines, practicum documentation, proof of language proficiency, and a Vulnerable Sector Check. If gaps are identified, OCT may require additional coursework or a recognized Ontario teacher education program to meet standards. Start with OCT: https://www.oct.ca

Is French required to get hired?

No, French is not required for all positions. However, French Immersion and French-language boards experience strong demand. If you can teach French as a Second Language (FSL) or in a French Immersion setting, your job prospects increase significantly. Consider taking French language courses or an FSL AQ to enhance employability.

How do I find job postings and research boards?

Most Ontario boards post jobs through ApplyToEducation (https://www.applytoeducation.com). You can also explore boards directly via the province’s directory: https://www.ontario.ca/page/school-boards. Research each board’s hiring processes, required documents, and interview timelines. Joining supply/occasional rosters is often the first step toward LTO and permanent roles.

What are the Primary/Junior and Junior/Intermediate divisions, and how do they affect me?

In Ontario, elementary teachers are certified by division:

  • Primary/Junior (P/J): Kindergarten to Grade 6.
  • Junior/Intermediate (J/I): Grades 4 to 10 (for elementary placements, typically Grades 7–8).

Your division determines the grades you are qualified to teach. If you want to expand your range, you can add Additional Basic Qualifications (ABQs) later to teach other divisions or subjects.

Resources and links recap:

By following the recognized Ontario pathway—completing your undergraduate degree, an accredited teacher education program, and OCT certification—you position yourself for a rewarding, stable career as an Elementary School Teacher (Generalist) in Ontario. Focus your development on in-demand areas, build strong practicum and early-career experiences, and connect with school communities across the province to find your best fit.

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