The Waterloo Catholic District School Board (WCDSB) is a prestigious Catholic public school board in the province of Ontario, managing the elementary school system in the Waterloo Region, which includes Kitchener, Waterloo, and Cambridge – one of the areas with a high quality of life and education in Canada.
WCDSB is a suitable choice for international families who wish for their children to begin their primary school education in Canada, in a safe, disciplined environment that emphasizes academic foundations and moral values.
- Level: Elementary School (Kindergarten – Grade 8)
- Type of school: Catholic Public Schools
- School Board: Waterloo Catholic District School Board (WCDSB)
- Location: Kitchener – Waterloo – Cambridge, Ontario
- Language of instruction: English
- Official website: https://www.wcdsb.ca
Why choose a primary school belonging to WCDSB?
1. Ontario Standard Curriculum - Building a Solid Foundation
WCDSB primary schools teach according to the Ontario Ministry of Education curriculum, focusing on:
- Develop reading, writing, and math skills.
- Developing logical thinking and learning skills.
- Prepare a foundation for high school and college later on.
2. The Catholic environment - discipline and safety for young children
As a Catholic public school system, WCDSB places particular emphasis on:
- Moral values, respect, and responsibility.
- A disciplined learning environment with close supervision.
- The safety and holistic development of students.
- This is a factor that many international parents value when sending their children to study abroad at a young age.
3. ESL support and inclusion for international students
International students at WCDSB receive:
- Study ESL (English as a Second Language) alongside your main program.
- Support for gradual, age-appropriate integration.
- Develop natural English skills in a learning environment with native students.
4. Holistic development of academics and life skills
In addition to academics, the school focuses on:
- Art, music, physical
- Communication and teamwork skills
- Extracurricular activities suitable for elementary school age
WCDSB Elementary School Tuition Fees (for reference only)
- Tuition fees for international students: approximately 14,000 - 15,500 CAD per academic year.
- Study period: September - June
- The tuition fees are considered reasonable given the quality of Catholic public education in Ontario.
Estimated cost of living in the Waterloo Region
The Waterloo Region is the area:
- Safe, many host families
- The cost of living is lower than in Toronto.
- Suitable for young children and international students.
- Homestay/Guardian: 1,000 - 1,300 CAD/month
- Other costs:
- Health insurance: 900 - 1,200 CAD/year
- Transportation: 80 - 120 CAD / month
- Personal expenses: 100 - 200 CAD / month
Total annual cost: approximately 26,000 - 30,000 CAD
Study at a Canadian primary school with KeyApply
KeyApply understands that sending elementary school students abroad is a big decision for parents. KeyApply provides comprehensive support:
- Request a Letter of Acceptance (LOA) - free of charge
- Canadian student visa applications are handled directly by experienced immigration consultants.
- Support with custodians, homestay arrangements, and school communication.
- Closely monitor students and support parents throughout the learning process.
📌 KeyApply is here to support parents, ensure students have peace of mind, and foster stable learning and long-term development in Canada.
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