What are the different types of high schools in Canada?
Types of High Schools in Canada
1. Comprehensive High Schools (CHS)
- Comprehensive high schools offer a wide range of courses, including arts, sciences, and vocational programs.
- They prepare students for post-secondary education, apprenticeships, or trade school training.
- Examples: Mount Royal High School, Westgate Collegiate, and Sir Wilfrid Laurier High School.
2. Secondary Schools (Sec.)
- Secondary schools offer a more traditional curriculum, with a focus on core subjects such as English, math, science, and social studies.
- They prepare students for provincial exams and post-secondary education.
- Examples: John A. Macdonald High School, Parkview Secondary School, and Sir Wilfrid Laurier High School.
3. Alternative High Schools (Alt.)
- Alternative high schools provide a more individualized and flexible learning environment.
- They offer specialized programs, such as career training, trades, or alternative learning methods.
- Examples: The Alternative School in Toronto, The Ridgewood School in Vancouver, and The Langley School in Langley.
4. International Baccalaureate (IB) Schools
- IB schools offer an internationally recognized curriculum that emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving, and global awareness.
- They prepare students for the IB Diploma program, which is recognized by universities worldwide.
- Examples: The International School of Toronto, The International School of Ottawa, and The International School of Calgary.
5. Specialized High Schools
- Specialized high schools offer programs that focus on specific trades, such as nursing, technology, or trades.
- They provide hands-on training and prepare students for entry-level jobs in their chosen field.
- Examples: St. Clair College, Loyalist College, and Mohawk College.
6. Vocational High Schools (VHS)
- Vocational high schools offer programs that provide practical skills and training in specific trades, such as construction, healthcare, and manufacturing.
- They prepare students for jobs in the workplace and offer apprenticeships and trade school opportunities.
- Examples: Red River College, Conestoga College, and Mohawk College.
7. Charter Schools
- Charter schools are publicly funded schools that operate independently from traditional school boards.
- They have greater autonomy in curriculum and teaching methods.
- Examples: The Toronto Catholic School Board, the Vancouver School Board, and the Edmonton Public Schools.