The Ontario College of Teachers is introducing a new one-year teacher training program while maintaining the current 80-day practicum requirement. This change, announced by the provincial government on April 10, will take effect on May 1 of next year, replacing the previous four-semester model spread over two years.
Cost Savings and Rationale
The province estimates that the shift to a one-year program will save students up to $3,000 in tuition. The current two-year Bachelor of Education program was introduced in 2015 by the Liberal government under Kathleen Wynne, partly to address an oversupply of teachers. However, Ontario now faces a teacher shortage, prompting the reversal.
Government Statements
“This change would get future teachers into the classroom faster, jumpstarting fulfilling careers and meeting the needs of communities across Ontario,” said Minister of Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence and Security Nolan Quinn during an April 10 press conference.
“We need a system that removes unnecessary barriers, focuses on real classroom experience and ensures new teachers feel confident and ready from day one,” added Minister of Education Paul Calandra at the same event.
Practicum Requirements
At 80 days, Ontario has one of the shortest practicum requirements in Canada. The Ontario Teachers’ Federation has been advocating for 100 days. Practicum lengths vary by province, with most requiring between 80 and over 105 days of in-school teaching experience. For instance, Manitoba requires 120 days for a Bachelor of Education.
“As the regulator for Ontario’s teaching profession, the Ontario College of Teachers sets certification requirements and accreditation standards that serve the public interest,” a release stated. “The college’s priority is to maintain clear professional standards and to support a smooth transition to the new initial teacher education program model.”
At its June 11 meeting, the college’s council approved the proposed amendments to the accreditation regulation.
