But this figure is somewhat misleading since it includes a range from 50 percent for boys in government schools to 80 percent for girls in non-government schools. The Canadian school system is decentralized but not to the extent that it is in the United States. By the British North America Act of 1867, the provinces were given authority to direct the schools within their borders. There is no ministry of education at the national level, but each province has its own minister, who remains in office as long as his party is in power. The official who actually governs the operation of the schools is the deputy minister, who remains at the post regardless of party changes.
Many children attend preschool classes.
In addition to public and private schools, home education is also allowed. In remote areas, children are taught by a correspondence school method. At about 11 years of age primary school students enter secondary schools. Students may legally leave school at 16. Students who earn a certificate can continue to the professional schools and the universities.