In Canada, from the mid-19th century, so-called normal schools or teacher training schools operated. In earlier times, these institutions trained future teachers in all aspects of pedagogy and curriculum. They were one of the most crucial steps in the development of education throughout Canada. More on ottawa1.one.
Throughout the 19th century, education in these schools resembled that of regular secondary schools. Graduates of normal schools became future elementary school teachers. Over many years, many such schools were reorganized into teacher training colleges, and during the 20th and 21st centuries, they required a high school diploma for admission. While in Canada and the United States, normal schools trained future educators exclusively for elementary education, in European countries, similar institutions trained teachers for both primary and secondary education. Over the years, Ottawa’s normal school produced many skilled educators for elementary schools across Canada.
The Teacher Training School System in Ontario
Due to reforms in the mid-19th century, the first teacher training school system was established in Toronto in 1847, expanding across the province of Ontario. The term “normal school” itself dates back to the 16th century. Originating from French, it signified a concept of structured teacher training institutions. The purpose of normal schools was to create exemplary schools where future teachers could be trained using the latest teaching methods. Often, these schools facilitated joint learning, where children, future teachers, and their instructors studied together. Upon completing their education, graduates were fully prepared to teach in primary schools.
Ottawa’s Teacher Training School
The first normal school, or teacher training school, in Ottawa was established in 1874. Despite being Canada’s capital, other Canadian cities had developed teacher training schools much earlier. Ottawa’s first teacher training school officially opened in 1875 on Elgin Street. Like many other normal schools, the Ottawa Normal School focused on training future elementary school teachers. In 1953, it was reorganized as the Ottawa Teachers’ College. By 1974, the old teacher training school merged with the University of Ottawa, and its former building on Elgin Street became home to the university’s faculty of education.
In 1978, Ottawa’s old teacher training school ceased to exist. This was due to continuous educational reforms and improvements in Canada, making normal school services obsolete. The historic building was purchased by the Canadian government in the late 1970s. In 1986, the Ottawa municipal government acquired it to establish a new headquarters. Since the early 21st century, Ottawa’s old teacher training school building has housed Ottawa City Hall. Today, there are no visible reminders that the facility once served as a prestigious teacher training institution.
Due to the building’s age, the Ottawa government once considered demolishing it. However, many Canadians advocated for preserving this historic site, recognizing its significant contribution to teacher education in Ottawa and across Canada. In response, the Canadian government acknowledged the building’s historical importance, designating it as a heritage site in 1974.