As a Primary School Teacher with the Department of National Defence, you will educate and support the development of elementary-aged students in DND schools located across Canada and internationally. You will plan and deliver engaging lessons that meet curriculum standards while fostering critical thinking, creativity, and a love of learning in your students. Your classroom will be a dynamic environment where you adapt teaching methods to meet diverse learning needs and help students build foundational academic and social skills.
Your responsibilities include developing lesson plans aligned with provincial curricula, assessing student progress, communicating with parents and guardians, and collaborating with other educators and support staff. You will create an inclusive classroom culture that celebrates diversity, supports student well-being, and encourages academic achievement. As part of the DND civilian education team, you will also participate in professional development, attend staff meetings, and contribute to school-wide initiatives that enhance the educational experience for all learners.
You will work in a professional school environment within Canadian Armed Forces communities. This unique setting offers the opportunity to support the children of military personnel and other DND employees, understanding the distinct needs of military families including frequent relocations and deployment-related challenges.
Key Responsibilities
Perform primary and secondary education duties within the education function, Prepare reports and documentation as required, Collaborate with team members and stakeholders, Maintain records and ensure compliance with relevant policies
Post-secondary education or equivalent experience relevant to the position
Training
To qualify as a Primary School Teacher in the federal Public Service, you must hold a Bachelor's degree in Education or equivalent teacher training credential recognized by the province where you will teach. Most positions require a valid provincial teaching certificate or license appropriate to the grade levels you will teach (typically kindergarten through Grade 6). Some provinces may require specific subject specializations or additional qualifications in areas such as special education, French immersion, or Indigenous education.
Professional development opportunities are available through DND's learning and development programs, including workshops on culturally responsive teaching, inclusive education practices, trauma-informed approaches relevant to military families, and technology integration in the classroom. Teachers are encouraged to pursue ongoing professional learning to maintain their teaching license and stay current with educational best practices. Mentorship programs and collaborative learning communities support continuous professional growth throughout your career.
Entry Plans
Primary School Teachers typically enter the DND civilian workforce through a competitive staffing process. You may apply for advertised positions on the Government of Canada's official job board (jobs.gc.ca) or through DND-specific recruitment campaigns. Some positions may be filled through an established pool of qualified candidates, which can expedite the hiring process.
If you are a recent graduate or early-career teacher, you may have opportunities through student or early-career recruitment initiatives. Lateral moves into DND schools are possible if you are already employed as a teacher in another jurisdiction or educational setting. The specific entry path depends on current vacancies, your qualifications, and whether positions are being filled competitively or through internal processes. Interested candidates should regularly check job postings and consider registering for notifications on relevant positions.
Part-Time Options
Primary School Teacher positions are typically full-time permanent or term roles following the standard school year calendar, which generally runs from September through June with scheduled breaks. However, part-time teaching opportunities may be available depending on school staffing needs and enrollments at specific DND schools.
Remote work is generally not applicable for Primary School Teachers, as the role requires in-person classroom instruction and direct student engagement. However, some administrative or planning tasks may be completed outside the classroom. Teachers typically work standard school hours plus additional time for lesson planning, marking, and professional responsibilities. Flexible scheduling within the school day may be possible in consultation with school administration, particularly regarding specialist or shared teaching arrangements. Work-life balance is supported through the structured school calendar, which aligns with student schedules and provides predictable time for planning and professional development during scheduled breaks and professional development days.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
