Preparing Your Children for School in Saskatoon
Introduction
If you are immigrating to Saskatoon with children, there are some important points to consider to help them adapt and succeed. This section provides key information and practical tips to support your child's smooth transition into the local school system.
Grade Placement
- In Saskatchewan, your child's age (date of birth) determines their grade placement, not just the grade completed in Iran or another country.
- School staff will review your child's birth certificate or passport to assign the appropriate grade level.
Learning English
- Saskatoon schools offer English Language Learning (ELL/ESL) programs specifically for newcomer students.
- There's no need to worry—children typically learn English quickly through daily interactions at school.
- Tip: Encourage your child to play and participate in English-speaking environments, even at the preschool level. This will help them adapt more easily to Canadian language and culture.
Educational Structure in Saskatchewan
- Elementary School: 8 years (Grades 1-8)
- High School: 4 years (Grades 9-12)
Required Documents for School Registration
You must first refer to the central office of your chosen division—either Saskatoon Public Schools (SPSD) or Greater Saskatoon Catholic Schools (GSCS). You can find more information about the school system in the Education and Childcare in Saskatoon article. In addition to proof of the student's passport and the parent's immigration status, these documents are needed:
- Vaccination Card and Translation: Required for registration of all students.
- Latest Academic Record (for high school students): For students entering Grade 10 or higher, along with an official translation.
How Students Are Assessed
Elementary School:
- Traditional letter grades (A, B, C, etc.) are not used.
- Academic performance is reported descriptively on report cards:
- N: Needs Improvement
- B: Beginning to Meet Expectations
- M: Meeting Expectations
- E: Exceeding Expectations
High School:
- Students receive percentage grades for each subject.
- The minimum passing grade is 50%.
Choosing a School
- Most elementary and high schools in Saskatoon maintain a good educational standard.
- The quality of education often depends more on the individual teacher than on the school's name.
- Note: Larger schools usually offer more facilities, such as libraries, gymnasiums, and special programs.
Educational Systems in Saskatoon
Schools operate under one of two divisions:
- Saskatoon Public Schools Division (SPSD): Public (secular) schools.
- Greater Saskatoon Catholic Schools (GSCS): Catholic schools with limited religious instruction and a more structured environment.
You are free to choose either system—attendance at Catholic schools does not require religious affiliation.
Special Educational Programs
- French Immersion: Students learn French alongside English. Bilingual proficiency opens up additional academic and professional opportunities.
- SAGE Program: An advanced program for gifted students starting from Grade 5. Students remain in regular schools but receive enhanced coursework.
Conclusion
By understanding these points and preparing in advance, you can help your child adapt quickly to their new educational environment and benefit from the diverse opportunities available in Saskatoon's schools.