BC Teachers Regulation Branch (TRB) was established in January 2012 following significant reforms to how the teaching profession is governed in British Columbia. It was created under the Teachers Act, replacing the former BC College of Teachers with a new structure designed to enhance transparency, accountability, and public confidence.
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Scope and Role
BC Teachers Regulation is responsible for a range of regulatory functions that support both teachers and the public interest. These include:
- Issuing and managing teacher certifications
- Maintaining standards for professional conduct and competence
- Investigating and addressing conduct concerns
- Supporting transparency and public trust in education
Through these efforts, the organization contributes to the advancement of safe, inclusive, and high-performing learning environments in public and independent schools.
Teacher Certification Pathways
BC offers multiple routes to certification depending on education, training, and experience. Key pathways include:
- Standard Certificate: For individuals who have completed an approved teacher education program.
- Interim and Conditional Certificates: For those in transitional stages of qualification, including internationally educated teachers.
- Specialized Certification: For teaching professionals in unique instructional settings, such as Indigenous language or trades education.
The process is designed to assess both academic credentials and alignment with BC’s standards of professionalism.
Supportive Resources and Guidance
To help educators maintain and enhance their professional skills, the regulatory body provides access to:
- Information on standards and legal responsibilities
- Updates on professional conduct requirements
- Educational guides for applicants from Canada and abroad
- Notices of recent regulatory decisions for transparency
This supportive approach enables teachers to remain confident, informed, and proactive in their professional journey.
Vision and Guiding Principles
The regulation of teachers in BC is grounded in a vision of excellence in education through:
- Trustworthy Professional Practice: Ensuring every educator is qualified and accountable.
- Equity and Inclusion: Promoting fairness in opportunity and access to teaching roles.
- Continuous Growth: Encouraging lifelong learning and reflective practice among teachers.
- Public Confidence: Maintaining openness and integrity in all processes and decisions.
Stay Connected
Explore our website for more information on:
- How to Become a Certified Teacher
- Teacher certification requirements
- Guidance for applicants educated inside Canada
- Guide for applicants educated Outside Canada
BC Teachers Regulation plays a vital role in ensuring that British Columbia’s classrooms are led by dedicated, ethical, and well-prepared educators. With a balanced approach to certification, conduct oversight, and professional guidance, it supports both the rights of students and the growth of the teaching profession. As education evolves, the commitment to high standards and meaningful support remains constant — shaping not only the careers of teachers, but the future of BC’s learners.
BC Teachers Regulation is building a stronger future — one classroom, one teacher, one student at a time.