This curriculum policy replaces The Ontario Curriculum: Social Studies, Grades 1 to 6; History and Geography, Grades 7 and 8, 2018. Beginning in September 2023, all social studies, history, and geography programs for Grades 1 to 8 will be based on the expectations outlined in The Ontario Curriculum: Social Studies, Grades 1 to 6; History and Geography, Grades 7 and 8, 2023. The revisions for the 2023 curriculum policy focused on learning in Grades 1 to 3 and Grade 6 social studies.
Indigenous Education in Ontario
First Nation, Métis, and Inuit students in Ontario will have the knowledge, skills, and confidence they need to successfully complete their elementary and secondary education in order to pursue postsecondary education or training and/or to enter the workforce. They will have the traditional and contemporary knowledge, skills, and attitudes required to be socially contributive, politically active, and economically prosperous citizens of the world. All students in Ontario will have knowledge and appreciation of contemporary and traditional First Nation, Métis, and Inuit traditions, cultures, and perspectives.
Ontario First Nation, Métis, and Inuit Education Policy Framework (2007)
The Ontario First Nation, Métis, and Inuit Education Policy Framework is part of Ontario’s Indigenous Education Strategy, which supports the achievement and well-being of Indigenous students across the province. The strategy also raises awareness about First Nation, Métis, and Inuit cultures, histories, perspectives, and contributions among all students in Ontario schools. The strategy is an essential component of Ontario’s partnership with Indigenous peoples, and addresses a critical gap in Ontario’s efforts to promote high levels of achievement for all students.
Consistent with the strategy, the present revision of the social studies and history curriculum was developed in collaboration with First Nations, Métis, and Inuit educators, community members, and organizations in response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s calls to action numbers 62 and 63. The revision strengthens learning connected with Indigenous perspectives, cultures, histories, and contemporary realities, including those related to the residential school system and treaties.
See the “Indigenous Education” section of the general program planning section for more information educators must consider in guiding the implementation of curriculum and in creating the environment in which it is taught, including ensuring cultural safety.