Should I Enroll My Child In French Immersion?

While the deadline for French Immersion this year has passed, parents whose children will be starting Grade 1 in September 2013 should start to think about their options. Usually, French Immersion enrollment opens in November and registration closes in January of the previous school year. So, if you'd like to enroll your child in the French Immersion program, now is the perfect time to start gathering information.

Let's take a closer look at some of the questions you probably have, such as:

Is French Immersion Right For My Child?

Is your child confident? Do they have a good memory and enjoy books? Do they have strong verbal skills in their native language and like to talk a lot? Do they like new challenges and have they transitioned well from home to school?

Based on extensive research, these are some of the common characteristics that successful French Immersion students share. If you feel your child possesses some or all of these qualities, chances are they will be very happy and successful in this program.

What is the French Immersion Program Like?

Students in Grade 1 spend 85 per cent of their school time learning in French. From grades 2 to 8, that time spent decreases to 50% in French and 50% in English. 

Students can also enter the program in Grade 7 where they will again split their time equally between English and French. Once in high school, they will be required to complete 10 credits in order to receive their bi-lingual certification as part of their high school diploma. 

What are the Advantages of the French Immersion Program?

For students in Grade 1, spending 85% of their time learning in French may seem like a lot and you may worry that your child will fall behind in their English development, but research has shown that while students may be a bit slower in their primary years, they quickly catch up to and actually pass their English-only peers by Grades 4-6. 

Studies have shown that children improve their thinking and reasoning skills when learning different languages and that their English skills will actually be enhanced through this process. Also, if students continue to study French Immersion through high school and become fluent in the language, there will be many more and higher-paying career opportunities available for them in Canada. 

What Schools in Mississauga Offer French Immersion?

How Do I Get More Information?

You can either reach out to us for specific questions or phone the Peel District School Board's office at 905-890-1010 ext 2519.

If you are interested in enrolling your child in French Immersion and want to know how the different schools compare in rankings, please register through the form below to receive your FREE copy of our Best Schools in Mississauga Report! Alternatively, you can contact us with any other questions.

What Catholic Schools Offer French Immersion?

For those planning to enroll their child in French Immersion in Catholic schools there are five options: Divine Mercy, St. Elizabeth Seton, St. Gertrude Separate School, St. Margaret of Scotland, and St. Pio of Petrelcina. If you'd like to know how these schools rank, simply fill in the form below to receive your free school report. You can either reach out to us for specific questions or phone the Dufferin Peel Catholic District School Board's office at 905-890-0708 ext 24332.

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