This week, I had the pleasure of catching up with Heather Lucas, a seasoned educator originally from Toronto, Canada. With over 10 years of teaching experience spanning Canada, Egypt, and South Korea, Heather brings a wealth of knowledge and a passion for inclusive education to her current role teaching Junior Kindergarten in Toronto.
In this conversation, Heather shares her insights into transitioning back to teaching in Canada, her experiences navigating different curriculums, and her advice for educators considering the Canadian teaching landscape.
Can you introduce yourself and provide some background about your teaching experience?
My name is Heather, and I’m originally from Toronto, Canada. I completed my undergraduate degree here and earned my PGDE-Primary from the University of Edinburgh. With over 10 years of teaching experience, I’ve worked in Canada, Egypt, and South Korea. I’ve taught students ranging from preschool to grade 6 and currently teach Junior Kindergarten. Outside the classroom, I’m a proud mom of two and a passionate traveler!
What inspired you to teach in Canada, and how did you come across this opportunity?
After several years of teaching abroad, I wanted to deepen my understanding of the Ontario curriculum and reconnect with my roots. Toronto’s diversity and multicultural environment felt like the perfect place to continue my career. I started with LTO (Long Term Occasional) contracts at my current school, eventually transitioning to a permanent position. Since I grew up in Canada, returning felt like coming home. I was still amazed by Toronto’s vibrant and welcoming atmosphere, its multicultural neighborhoods, diverse cuisine, and rich arts and cultural scene.
What steps did you take to secure a teaching position in Canada?
I made sure my teaching qualifications were recognized in Ontario by registering with the Ontario College of Teachers (OCT). To enhance my resume, I pursued additional qualifications and participated in professional development workshops. Networking with educators and applying to school boards and independent schools also played a key role in securing my current position.
What was the visa process like for you?
As a Canadian citizen, I didn’t need to go through the visa process. However, I know it can be quite complex for international teachers. Many Canadian school boards offer support for work permits and immigration processes to help international hires.
What is the typical school day like for a teacher in Canada?
A typical school day runs from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, though teachers often arrive early or stay late to manage their to-do lists. At my school, teaching hours are from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, but we’re expected to be on campus by 8:00 AM. Our day begins with a staff 'huddle' at 8:15 AM, and some mornings include outdoor duties. Beyond teaching, we’re involved in coaching, supervising clubs, and other responsibilities that enrich the school community.
How do the classroom sizes and resources in Canada compare to your experiences elsewhere?
Class sizes and resources can vary across schools in Canada. At my independent school, my Junior Kindergarten class has 18 students, and I work closely with a fantastic Early Childhood Educator (ECE). We’re fortunate to have excellent resources and a supportive administration that’s willing to provide materials as needed. In contrast, some schools abroad had larger class sizes or fewer resources, requiring more creative solutions.
What kind of curriculum do schools in Canada follow?
Schools in Canada follow provincial curriculums. In Ontario, the curriculum emphasizes student-centered and inquiry-based learning, which aligns with my teaching philosophy. Compared to other countries I’ve worked in, where standardized testing played a bigger role, Canada prioritizes holistic learning and fostering curiosity.
What is the cost of living like in Canada?
Toronto is one of the priciest cities in Canada, especially for housing, but teachers earn competitive salaries that can offset the cost with careful budgeting. Other cities across Canada offer a much lower cost of living, making them more affordable options for teachers.
Can you describe your housing situation and the types of accommodations typically available to teachers?
Toronto offers a mix of housing options, including apartments, condos, and single-family homes. Renting can be expensive, so many teachers choose shared accommodations or commute from nearby suburbs where prices are more affordable.
What can you do for leisure and entertainment day to day in Canada?
Toronto is full of options! From exploring diverse neighborhoods and enjoying the vibrant food scene to outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, and skiing. The city also has world-class museums, theaters, and sports events, so there’s truly something for everyone.
How does the salary and benefits package for teachers in Canada compare to other places you’ve worked?
Canada offers competitive salaries and benefits, including health insurance and pension plans. While international schools abroad may offer perks like housing or travel allowances, the stability and overall compensation in Canada are excellent.
Have you found opportunities to network with other expat teachers or local educators?
Yes! Professional development events, conferences, and workshops have been great for connecting with educators. Social media platforms also make it easy to stay connected and share ideas.
What are some of the biggest challenges you've faced while living and teaching in Canada?
Balancing the workload and maintaining work-life balance is always a challenge in teaching, regardless of the country. Specific to Toronto, the high cost of living can be stressful, but this isn’t the case across Canada. Building a strong personal and professional community has been key to navigating these challenges.
What have been the most rewarding aspects of your teaching experience in Canada?
The diversity of students and the opportunity to create inclusive, supportive classrooms have been incredibly rewarding. Watching students grow academically and socially, and knowing I’ve contributed to their development, is the most fulfilling part of my job.
What advice would you give to someone considering teaching in Canada?
Research the province where you plan to teach, as requirements and opportunities vary. Be open to new experiences, adapt to different teaching styles, and invest in networking and professional development to strengthen your application.
What essential items should teachers bring with them when moving to Canada?
Bring professional attire for all seasons, a digital teaching portfolio, and your favorite classroom resources. Don’t forget warm winter gear—it’s essential for Canadian winters!
Is there anything else you’d like to share about your experience that we haven’t covered
Teaching in Canada has been a truly enriching experience. The emphasis on inclusion, well-being, and professional development makes it a fantastic place for educators to grow both personally and professionally.
Where can readers find out more information about teaching in Canada that you would recommend?
Explore the Ontario College of Teachers website, the Canadian Teachers’ Federation, and LinkedIn groups for educators. Pathwaystoteach.ca offers a lot of helpful information as well!
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