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Education and Childcare in Saskatoon

Education and Childcare in Saskatoon

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Education and Childcare in Saskatoon

Introduction

Education and childcare are among the most important concerns for families who are new to Saskatoon.
Understanding the education system and available childcare options in Saskatchewan will help you make informed decisions for your children's well-being and academic success.

Daycare

Childcare for Pre-School Aged Children

In Canada, children under school age (typically under 5 years old) are usually enrolled in daycares or preschools.

Daycares in Saskatoon fall into two main categories:

  • Licensed Daycare Centres: Facilities regulated by the provincial government, meeting specific safety and staffing standards.
  • Home Daycares: Smaller services run in private homes, with fewer children and a homelike environment.

Important Notes About Daycares:

  • Waitlists: Saskatoon often has long daycare waitlists—registration may need to be done months or even years in advance.
  • Costs: Monthly fees typically range from $500 to $1,000 CAD, depending on the centre and the child's age.
  • Subsidies: Some daycares offer subsidies or discounts for low-income families.
  • Application: To apply, you usually need to complete a registration form and provide the child's identification and vaccination records.

Recommendation: Start the daycare registration or join waitlists immediately after arriving in Saskatoon.

School System in Saskatoon

Educational Structure in Saskatchewan

Public education becomes mandatory at age 5 (Kindergarten). The school system includes:

Both systems are open to all students, regardless of religious background.

Key Points About Schools

  • Grade Placement: The child's age—not previous schooling—determines grade level.
  • English Language: English as a Second Language (ESL) programs are available for non-English-speaking students.
  • Registration: Requires immigration documents, vaccination records, and proof of address.
  • School Calendar: Academic year runs from early September to June, with two one-week breaks (in addition to Christmas).
  • Tuition: Public school is free for permanent residents and work/study permit holders.
    Visitors pay about $16,000 per year.

Special Programs in Schools

  • French Immersion: Some schools offer education primarily in French from early grades.
  • SAGE Program: Specialized learning for gifted students, starting from Grade 5.
  • ESL (English as a Second Language): Support for students whose first language is not English.
  • International Baccalaureate (IB): A challenging two-year pre-university curriculum for students aged 16-19.
  • Advanced Placement (AP): College-level courses and exams for high school students, allowing them to earn college credit.

Note: Saskatoon is known for its good-quality education and maintains a high standard of learning in most schools.

Conclusion

Finding a suitable daycare may take time; register or join waitlists as soon as possible after arrival.

Saskatoon's public schools offer a range of opportunities for academic growth and registration is free for eligible residents.

Familiarizing yourself with the education structure and promptly starting the registration process will help your children adjust more easily and thrive in their new environment.