In Nova Scotia, most children start school at the age of five when they begin Grade Primary (Grade Primary is another name for Kindergarten). Children may begin their learning journey even sooner, at age four, if parents/guardians register them for the optional Pre-Primary program.

Registration for Pre-Primary and Grade Primary begins in February for September enrolment. Children must be four years old (for Pre-Primary) and five years old (for Grade Primary) on or before December 31 of the calendar year in which they are being enrolled. After Grade Primary, students move on to Grade 1.

What can you expect?

Each child's day will be unique, depending on the grade level they are in. Students will be assigned to one main classroom teacher for the school year but may have a different teacher for specialized classes like Physical Education and Music. Children in elementary school will have scheduled breaks throughout the day (recess) and lunch. A full school day is approximately six hours.

Teachers and school staff are prepared to support students with many different learning needs through an inclusive approach. Parents/guardians and teachers are encouraged to maintain ongoing communication with one another throughout the school year, to ensure student well-being, progress and success are achieved.   

See for yourself! Click here to watch elementary school students practice their literacy skills inside the classroom.