Guide to Ontario Teacher Certification (OCT) (3) - Becoming a Physical Education Teacher in Canada: Concurrent Kinesiology + Education Programs

Guide to Ontario Teacher Certification (OCT) (3)

Becoming a Physical Education Teacher in Canada: Concurrent Kinesiology + Education Programs

A physical education teacher is far more than someone who simply teaches sports. They play a vital role in fostering students’ physical development, health, teamwork, and leadership skills. In recent years, their role has expanded to include wellness education and mental health awareness, leading to a steady increase in demand for qualified physical education teachers in schools. In Canada, several pathways exist to become a P.E. teacher, but for students who want to prepare directly after high school, the Concurrent Kinesiology + Education program is one of the most efficient options.

The Concurrent Kinesiology + Education program allows students to pursue a degree in Kinesiology while simultaneously completing the requirements for a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed). Upon graduation, students receive both a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology and a Bachelor of Education, making them eligible for Ontario College of Teachers (OCT) certification. Most of these programs focus on the secondary school track (Grades 7–12), which is the standard route to becoming a high school P.E. teacher.

Although the structure varies by university, students typically designate Physical Education as one of their teachable subjects. In Ontario, secondary teacher candidates must normally select two teachable subjects. Common combinations include Physical Education + Biology, Physical Education + Health Education, or Physical Education + Environmental Science.

Several universities in Ontario offer strong Concurrent Kinesiology + Education programs. For example, Queen’s University runs the BPHE/B.Ed track (Bachelor of Physical and Health Education + Education). This five-year program allows students to choose between elementary or secondary school teaching. For the secondary track, students often combine Physical Education with Biology as their teachable subjects. Queen’s is highly competitive due to its strong emphasis on experiential learning and classroom-based practice.

Brock University also offers a concurrent pathway in Kinesiology and Education. At Brock, the most common combination is Physical Education + Health Education, and some students further specialize by integrating Outdoor Education. Brock is well-regarded for its strengths in physical education and enjoys high graduate employment rates.

Nipissing University and Lakehead University also provide concurrent programs in Kinesiology and Education. Both institutions are known for their smaller, community-oriented environments, offering students substantial hands-on teaching experience and close engagement with local schools.

The path to becoming a physical education teacher requires more than studying sports or exercise science. It also involves pedagogy, classroom management, and field placements that allow candidates to gain real-world teaching experience. A concurrent program is particularly efficient because it prepares students in both areas at once. Beyond subject knowledge, students develop skills in communication, safety education, curriculum design, and health promotion, ensuring they graduate with strong professional competitiveness.

That said, admission to these programs is highly competitive. A minimum high school average of 85% is typically required, along with strong standardized English test scores for international applicants. Applicants are usually asked to submit personal statements, reference letters, and supplementary documents highlighting leadership experience and a passion for education.

For students aspiring to become physical education teachers in Canada, it is wise to begin exploring which program and track best align with their goals. Carefully reviewing admission requirements, program structures, and deadlines will be essential to a successful application. For those who feel uncertain, consulting with an academic advisor or education consultant can provide clarity and direction. For anyone passionate about promoting students’ health and growth, becoming a physical education teacher remains a rewarding and future-proof career choice.