Public schooling is mandatory and free for children aged 5 to 18, with options for English, French, and private education. Parents can choose the type of school that best meets their child’s needs, with transportation provided in many areas.
Most students in the province attend English-language schools operated by the NLESD (Newfoundland and Labrador English School District). These schools follow the provincial curriculum and offer English as an Additional Language (EAL) support for students from non-English-speaking backgrounds.
Private schools operate independently and charge tuition fees, offering various educational philosophies or religious instruction. Some private institutions also offer international programs, smaller class sizes, and additional extracurricular opportunities. Francophone or French first-language schools are available through the Conseil scolaire francophone provincial de Terre-Neuve-et-Labrador (CSFP). These schools serve students from French-speaking families and offer full French-language instruction along with cultural education.
English Schools
NLSchools – Newfoundland and Labrador English School District
NLSchools oversees all English-speaking public schools in the province, providing education from Kindergarten to Grade 12. The district offers various programs, including English as an Additional Language (EAL) support for newcomers.
French Schools
Conseil scolaire francophone provincial (CSFP)
CSFP manages French first-language education from Kindergarten to Grade 12 across six non-denominational public schools in Newfoundland and Labrador. They offer a range of educational programs and extracurricular activities in French.
Private Schools
St. Bonaventure’s College
St. Bonaventure’s College is a K-12 co-educational Catholic school in the Jesuit tradition, located in St. John’s. The school emphasizes academic excellence and spiritual development.
Lakecrest Independent School
Lakecrest offers education from Kindergarten to Grade 9 and is an International Baccalaureate (IB) World Primary Years Programme (PYP) School. Located in St. John’s, it focuses on individualized learning in a nurturing environment.
Immaculate Heart of Mary School
Located in Corner Brook, Immaculate Heart of Mary is a K-10 co-educational Catholic school that offers a faith-based education.