News and News Releases

On April 10, 2026, the Ontario government announced changes to the initial teacher education program. Effective May 1, 2027, the current four-semester model will become a three-semester, 12-month consecutive program. The new model maintains the current 80-day practicum requirement.

As the regulator for Ontario’s teaching profession, the Ontario College of Teachers (the College) sets certification requirements and accreditation standards that serve the public interest. The College’s priority is to maintain clear professional standards and to support a smooth transition to the new initial teacher education program model.

The College has worked with the Ministry of Education to draft the related regulatory amendments to transition to the new program model. The focus in this initial phase of work has been on changes to Ontario Regulation 347/02 Accreditation of Teacher Education Programs (Accreditation Regulation).

At its June 11, 2026 meeting, College Council approved the proposed amendments to the Accreditation Regulation.

Beyond initial teacher education program changes, the amendments also include changes to ensure the continuity of existing initial teacher education programs during the implementation of the new model, as well as updates previously approved by College Council and housekeeping amendments to streamline and clarify accreditation reviews.

Updates to Ontario Regulation 176/10 Teachers’ Qualifications Regulation to align with the Accreditation Regulation are anticipated later this year.

Teacher candidates, College members, and all other interest holders are encouraged to monitor the College website for further updates.