How do we define this domain?
Education is the formal system through which children and youth learn. Education includes early childhood education (i.e., full day kindergarten, child care, and family support programs), elementary and secondary school, and post-secondary studies (i.e., university, vocational, occupational, and apprenticeship programs).
Why is it important?
Participation in education has a measurable impact on the development and overall well-being of children and youth.[1] It is also connected to their financial potential, opportunities for employment, and likelihood of being active and contributing members of our society.[2]
There are four concepts within the Education Domain:
How does this align with our Child and Youth Charters?
This domain aligns with several charter statements from the WDG Child and Youth Charters of Rights:
All children in Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph have a right to: (iii) Access quality and affordable child care, early education and/or parenting support; (v) Quality education to enable them to reach their full potential.
All youth in Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph have a right to: (v) Education, training and opportunities that prepare us for our future lives; (ix) Access to quality and affordable child care, early education programs and/or parenting supports.
[1] Ministry of Health Promotion (2010). School health: Guidance document. Available at: http://www.mhp.gov.on.ca/en/healthy-communities/public-health/guidance-docs/SchoolHealth.pdf
[2] Butler-Jones, D. (2011). The chief public health officer's report on the state of public health in Canada, 2011: Youth and young adults - Life in transition. Available at: http://publichealth.gc.ca/CPHOreport.