Secondary School Teachers in the Department of National Defence deliver academic instruction to students in grades 9-12 across DND-operated schools, primarily located on Canadian Armed Forces bases in Canada and internationally. These educators develop and deliver curriculum in various academic subjects, adapting teaching methods to meet diverse student needs and learning styles. Teachers play a vital role in supporting the academic success and personal development of military-connected students in a unique educational environment.
Your responsibilities include planning and delivering lessons aligned with provincial and territorial curricula, assessing student progress, maintaining classroom management, and communicating with parents and guardians about student performance. You will collaborate with colleagues to develop educational programs, participate in school committees, and contribute to the overall school culture and community. Teachers may also supervise extracurricular activities, field trips, and school events.
You will work in a structured school environment with exposure to the military community. The role requires strong communication skills, subject matter expertise, and the ability to work effectively with students from diverse backgrounds. Teaching schedules typically follow the academic calendar with standard school hours, though some evening and weekend commitments may be required for special events or parent-teacher functions.
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
You must hold a Bachelor's degree with a major or minor in your teaching subject area from a recognized university. Teacher certification or a teaching credential from your province or territory of residence is required at the time of hire. Some provinces require completion of a Bachelor of Education program or equivalent teacher training. Current or recent teaching experience is an asset.
Professional development opportunities include participation in DND-sponsored professional learning communities, subject-specific workshops, and curriculum development initiatives. Teachers are encouraged to maintain current teaching certifications and may access funding for relevant university courses or educational conferences. Access to mentorship programs and collaborative planning time supports ongoing professional growth within the DND school system.
Entry Plans
You can enter this career through advertised staffing competitions posted on the Government of Canada's Job Bank and the DND Civilian Workforce website. Competitions are typically open to Canadian citizens and permanent residents with the required teaching qualifications and subject area expertise.
Lateral moves from provincial school systems to DND schools are common, with your teaching experience recognized during the hiring process. Previous service members with teaching credentials may also apply. Some positions may be filled through student or early-career recruitment initiatives, though most openings target experienced educators.
The hiring process includes application review, interviews, and verification of teaching credentials. Security clearance requirements apply to all positions. Competition timelines vary; you should monitor job postings regularly as positions become available.
Part-Time Options
Secondary School Teacher positions are primarily full-time roles following the academic calendar. Part-time or job-sharing arrangements may be available and are typically negotiated on a case-by-case basis depending on operational needs and school staffing requirements.
Remote work is not applicable to this role, as classroom instruction requires in-person presence with students. However, some administrative or curriculum planning work may be completed off-site. Teachers benefit from defined work schedules aligned with the school day and academic calendar, providing predictability compared to some other public service roles. Summer break and school holidays provide extended time off, though some professional development activities may occur during these periods.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
