Elementary school and kindergarten teachers work with children from kindergarten to Grade 7. They teach in core areas such as reading, writing and arithmetic. They may also teach physical education, music and other subjects. Some specialize in second-language instruction.
Source: Estimated median employment income based on 2021 Job Bank median hourly wage rate (median annual salary = hourly wage rate x 40 (hours per week) x 52.14 (weeks per year))
Note:Estimated median employment income based on 2021 Job Bank median hourly wage rate (median annual salary = hourly wage rate x 40 (hours per week) x 52.14 (weeks per year))
Source: 2021 Job Bank Wage Report
Source: B.C. Labour Market Outlook
10 year expected job openings: 10,640
In general, elementary school and kindergarten teachers:
Some may also:
Elementary school and kindergarten teachers may choose to focus on areas such as special education, counselling, music or physical education. Some teach English as a second language (ESL). Others teach in core French or French immersion programs or in B.C.’s francophone school system.
Elementary school and kindergarten teachers work in public and private elementary schools. They do most of their work in the classroom. Out-of-classroom learning is also an important part of the job. They regularly take care of organizational tasks, prepare lessons and do marking on their own time, often at home.
Most teachers work a 10-month school year, with two months off in July and August. They also have holidays over Christmas and at spring break.
Elementary school and kindergarten teachers use computers to share lessons and information electronically with students and parents. They also teach students how to safely use computers and tablets for in-class work.
Teaching can be a highly rewarding job for those who like to help children. It can also be challenging. Teachers work with students with a variety of learning abilities and needs. They can be faced with difficult issues in the classroom. They may also feel the physical effects of standing and bending throughout the day.
Source: 2016 Census
Elementary school and kindergarten teachers need:
Most teachers complete a bachelor's degree in the arts or sciences before earning their bachelor’s degree in education.
Teachers who specialize in special education or second-language instruction need additional training. Those who wish to teach English as a second language (ESL) or French immersion are assessed by their employer.
For more information about programs offered specifically for this career, visit EducationPlannerBC.
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Elementary school and kindergarten teachers enjoy strong job prospects.
Demand is especially high for French immersion and francophone program teachers who usually find teaching contracts in their first year of work. Demand is also very strong for teachers in rural areas.
Career paths
Some new graduates secure teaching contracts right away. But many begin their careers as full- or part-time teachers teaching on call (TTOCs). TTOCs fill in for teachers who are absent–whether for a few hours, a few days, or while taking maternity leave or sabbatical.
Experienced teachers may move on to become education consultants, vice-principals, principals or school district senior managers.
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