Popular Topics

Related Links

Ministry of Education

Governance & Independent Schools Division

The Governance & Independent Schools Division is responsible for all matters of governance related to Kindergarten to Grade 12 schooling in British Columbia. The province’s K-12 education system comprises:

  • public schools
  • independent schools
  • offshore schools
  • homeschooling

  • Governance & Legislation Branch is responsible for all Ministry of Education legislation and ensuring that education policies and initiatives have the necessary legislative authority. Specific responsibilities include:

  • Library Act
  • Manual of School Law
  • School Calendar
  • Student Appeals

The branch also serves as the Ministry of Education’s primary liaison with the Ministry of Attorney General.

  • registering, inspecting and classifying independent schools
  • homeschooling policies
  • Issuing certificates to public and independent school teachers
  • Maintaining teacher registries
  • Suspending or cancelling certificates in accordance with the Teachers Act.
  • Supporting the Teachers’ Council in developing standards and approving teacher training programs.
  • Providing information and training to educators on standards of competence and professional conduct.
  • International Education is responsible for:
  • Developing and implementing the International Education Strategy
  • Promoting and certifying offshore school programs
  • Working with embassies and consulates and hosting delegations on international education matters
  • Working with other ministries and agencies to support the provincial Asia Pacific Initiative
  • Providing advice and support to boards of education on international educational programs
  • Working with the Ministry of Advanced Education to adjudicate Chinese government scholarships for BC students to go to China
  • Working with federal/provincial/territorial agencies on international education initiatives