Quebec
Without a Degree

How to Become a Substitute Teacher in Quebec Without a Degree

You do not need a Bachelor of Education degree to work as a classroom supervisor or substitute teacher in Quebec. Due to ongoing teacher shortages, school boards across the province are actively hiring individuals with a high school diploma to fill classroom supervisor roles.

No

Degree Required?

High school diploma or equivalent

Minimum Education

Classroom Supervisor

Role Title

$140-$195 CAD

Daily Rate Range

Individual school boards

Hiring Authority

Becoming a substitute teacher or classroom supervisor in Quebec does not require a university degree. While a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) is the standard qualification for certified teachers in Quebec, school boards across the province have created a separate category known as classroom supervisors that allows individuals without a teaching degree to step into classrooms and support student learning. This pathway has expanded significantly in recent years as teacher shortages have intensified across Quebec and throughout Canada. School boards and school divisions in Quebec set their own requirements for classroom supervisors, and the minimum qualification is typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Some boards may prefer candidates with some post-secondary education, prior experience working with children, or relevant training such as first aid certification, but a four-year degree is not required. The Quebec Ministère de l'Éducation oversees education standards in the province, but the hiring of classroom supervisors is managed at the local board level, giving individual boards flexibility to address their staffing needs. The demand for classroom supervisors in Quebec is driven by a persistent shortage of certified substitute teachers. When a certified teacher is unavailable for a day or an extended period, school boards need someone to supervise the classroom, ensure student safety, and follow lesson plans left by the regular teacher. Classroom supervisors fill this critical role. In Quebec, daily rates for classroom supervisors typically range from $140 to $195 CAD, with the exact rate varying by school board and assignment length. Individuals who hold a B.Ed. or teaching certificate generally qualify for higher daily rates, but the classroom supervisor pathway provides an accessible entry point for those without formal teaching credentials. To apply as a classroom supervisor in Quebec, start by contacting school boards directly or visiting their online job portals. You will typically need to submit a resume, provide two or three references (preferably from people who can speak to your ability to work with young people), and complete a Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Screening. Some boards also require a brief orientation session or online training module before your first assignment. The application process is straightforward and most boards are eager to add reliable individuals to their substitute lists. Working as a classroom supervisor in Quebec can be an excellent stepping stone if you are considering a career in education. Many classroom supervisors use the experience to decide whether they want to pursue a B.Ed. and become a fully certified teacher. Even without that long-term goal, the role offers flexible scheduling, meaningful work with students, and the opportunity to contribute to your local community. School boards across Quebec are actively recruiting, and the pathway is open to anyone who meets the minimum requirements and passes a background check.

Quebec Requirements Summary

Education Requirements

A high school diploma or equivalent is the minimum requirement to work as a classroom supervisor (substitute teacher) in Quebec. A Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) is preferred and may qualify candidates for higher pay rates, but it is not required. Due to ongoing teacher shortages, centres de services scolaires (school service centres) or English-language school boards across Quebec are actively hiring classroom supervisors who do not hold a B.Ed. degree. Classroom supervisors perform the same day-to-day duties as substitute teachers, including following lesson plans, managing classrooms, and supervising students. Candidates with post-secondary education in any field, relevant work experience with children, or educational assistant credentials may be given preference during the hiring process.

Background Check

A judicial background check (verification des antecedents judiciaires) is mandatory for all substitute teachers in Quebec. The check is required under the Education Act and must be completed before any contact with students. School boards are responsible for initiating this process.

Age Requirements

Applicants must be at least 18 years of age, the age of majority in Quebec. This is a prerequisite for obtaining a teaching authorization and for entering into an employment contract with a school board or centre de services scolaire.

Application Process

Candidates apply directly to individual centres de services scolaires (school service centres) or English-language school boards in Quebec to be placed on the classroom supervisor or substitute teacher roster. Most boards accept applications through their online portals or human resources departments. The typical application requires a resume, proof of education (high school diploma or higher), a current Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Screening, government-issued photo identification, and two to three professional references. Some boards may also require a brief interview or orientation session before adding candidates to their active roster. Processing times vary by board but generally range from two to six weeks.

Language Requirements

French is the official language of Quebec and the primary language of instruction in the vast majority of schools. Substitute teachers in French-language school service centres must demonstrate proficiency in French. English-language school boards require English proficiency, and many also require functional French for communication purposes.

Key Facts: Without a Degree in Quebec

No

Degree Required?

High school diploma or equivalent

Minimum Education

Classroom Supervisor

Role Title

$140-$195 CAD

Daily Rate Range

Individual school boards

Hiring Authority

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Resources

Get Started in Quebec

Our training courses help you meet Quebec's substitute teacher requirements. Start online today.