Introduction:
Canada is one of the countries that has various cultures and has an international reputation and known for having respect for this diverse nation. The educational system of this country also ranks high among the world’s educational systems.
Canada has such laws, starting from the process of elementary education to higher education and up to doctorate, that first-class countries need them and have the same effect on all citizens. Countries have clear differences in laws and place specifics in providing facilities to their citizens.
Recently, many Afghans have come to Canada as asylum seekers, and the Canadian government treats them as citizens according to the laws of this country, and they also enjoy the same services that Canadian citizens enjoyed.
All Afghans should familiarize themselves and have knowledge about the laws of Canada. For those Afghan refugees who are newly settled in Canada, it is important and necessary for them to understand the educational system. In this guide, the Canadian education system from early childhood to the university level has been explained and special advice for Afghan refugees has also been presented in this section.
1-Primary or childhood education
This period of education includes children from zero to five years of age. Although this type of education is not mandatory, it is strongly recommended. If our children are at the age to start education they should be prepared for education and work with them. The children should receive pre-school and kindergarten training programs and more focus is placed on the overall (cognitive, emotional and social) development of the child.
Recommendations for Afghan refugees: enrollment of children in primary education programs, they become familiar with the new cultural environment and language easily and quickly. Many communities have special programs for newly arrived immigrants, which help them with language skills and cultural integration.
- A) Primary education: Primary education starts at the age of six and continues until the 6th or 8th grade, which varies in different states. During this period, students are taught important language and arithmetic skills along with science, social sciences, arts and physics. Most schools offer French and English as second languages.
Recommendations: Parents’ active role in their child’s education is very important. Regular contact with teachers helps you track your child’s progress, as it allows you to quickly address your concerns and help you understand what kind of learning environment to create for your child at home.
- b) Secondary education: Secondary education, also known as high school, includes education from 7th or 9th grade to 12th grade. This course prepares students to enter post-secondary education or the work environment. In this period, by teaching compulsory and optional subjects to the students, their educational level increases.
Recommendations: Students of this period should be taught how to use counseling services available in schools. These consultants can advise on course selection, academic career planning and higher education.
2-Higher Education (Post-Secondary Education)
Canada has a variety of post-secondary education systems, including universities, colleges, and technical institutes, offering students degrees ranging from diplomas to PhD.
- A) Undergraduate Studies: This kind of education takes three to four years and students receive education in a specific field and develop their critical thinking and research skills.
Recommendations: The services of higher education institutions should be used. These organizations help them with CV, interview and job search to effectively enter the Canadian labor market.
- B) Master level education: Master’s degree is specialized in a specific field. The master’s course is mostly research-based and must be completed with a thesis.
Recommendations: When looking to gain a master’s degree, do a thorough search of available university programs. Choose a program that suits your academic goals and has strong support for international students.
- C) Doctorate (PhD) level studies: PhD degree is considered the peak of educational development. In this program, a special section is focused on original research and the results obtained as a result of the research become usable by the academic community.
Recommendations: If you are looking for a PhD degree, find the right topic for your research, which will take several years to complete. So, choose a topic that will inspire you and be beneficial to your career.
3-Adult Education
Those who want to improve their skills, change their career or have personal interest can benefit from this kind of education in Canada. It includes both credit and non-credit programs and is considered the best way to enter the workforce in Canada.
Recommendations: If your age is above the time of school and higher education, you can also take advantage of this option. Many of the programs included language courses and vocational training, and can help you build your new life in Canada.
4-Special education
Canada has special education programs for people with disabilities, such as the mentally retarded, the mentally and physically ill, and those with behavioral problems.
Recommendations: If your child needs special education services, talk to the school about their needs. Canadian laws protect the rights of students with disabilities and schools must make necessary accommodations for students with disabilities.
5-Learning languages
Must be proficient in one of Canada’s two official languages (English and French), as learning one of these languages is necessary to academic success. Educational institutions and related societies offer extensive English as a Second Language (ESL) and French as a Second Language (FSL) programs.
Recommendations: Learning English or French is not only useful in academics, but these languages are also very important in everyday life in Canada. In addition, people who have learned both these languages have more job opportunities than others, that’s why they should try to learn both languages.
6-Scholarship and financial support
Canada offers many scholarships and financial aid opportunities, and these chances could be used by immigrants and other international students to significantly reduce the cost of their education.
Recommendations: First thing you should start researching scholarships and send more applications. Ask your chosen school or higher education institution for information about available scholarships.
7-Transfer from school to work
Many Canadian schools have co-op programs, internships and work-study opportunities that provide valuable work experience and industry connections.
Recommendations: Persuade your children to take advantage of educational opportunities that can be used alongside work. This work experience helps them to enter the work field better after completing their studies.
The role of parents and society in education
Parents and the community play key role in the Canadian education system. Many schools have parent-teacher associations and parents are encouraged to be involved in their children’s education.
Recommendations: Stay involved with the community at your child’s school, learn more about the Canadian education system and connect with other families.
Exploring cultural differences in education
Newcomers to Canada find cultural differences in the learning environment challenging. Canadian educational institutions are broadly inclusive and highly diverse.
Recommendations: Educate your child about any cultural differences they may encounter at school. Teach your children to be proud of their Afghan culture as well as respect Canadian culture.
Understanding the marking system in Canada
The marking method of Canadian educational institutions may differ from the system you are familiar with. It is important to understand the role of these numbers in the calculation and academic development of your children.
Recommendations: If you have questions about the marking system, ask the relevant teacher or counselor for information.
Choosing the right educational center and program
Choosing the right educational center and program is critical to your child’s academic success and well-being. Before the enrollment your child, you should consider some factors such as the reputation of the educational center, their resources for students and the general atmosphere of that center.
Recommendations: If possible, attend school with your child; Talk to teachers, students, and other parents to be sure of the school’s environment.
Conclusion:
Although you may be worried about entering a new educational system, you can organize this by having adequate information. Canada’s education system is designed to provide all, including immigrant students, the materials they need to succeed. By understanding the educational system and available resources, Afghan refugees can take successful steps in their educational journey in Canada
Government of Canada (2021). “Types of early learning and child care.”
Canadian Information Centre for International Credentials (2021). “Elementary and Secondary Education.”
Government of Ontario (2021). “Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) Requirements.”
Universities Canada (2021). “Canadian Universities.”
Government of Canada (2021). “Adult Learning.”
Canadian Human Rights Commission (2021). “Education and Students with Disabilities.”
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (2021). “Language training for newcomers to Canada.”
Scholarships Canada (2021). “Scholarships.”
Canadian Association for Co-operative Education (CAFCE) (2021). “Co-operative Education.”
People for Education (2021). “Parent Involvement.”
Canadian Teachers’ Federation (2021). “Canadian Schools Celebrating Diversity.”
University of Toronto (2021). “Understanding Grading.”
Canadian Parents for French (2021). “Choosing a School.”
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