English Program
The Ottawa-Carleton District School Board English Program allows students to concentrate on English language skills. This program is available from kindergarten to graduation. Like all OCDSB programs, it is child-centred, it stresses proficiency in all subject areas and it allows students to develop a high level of communication skills in the English language.
In this program, English is the language of instruction for all subjects other than French.
At the elementary level, the subjects taught are Language, Mathematics, Science and Technology, Social Studies, History, Geography, Health and Physical Education, The Arts and Core French.
At the secondary level, courses may be offered in the following subjects: English, Mathematics, Science, Classical and International Languages, Native Languages, Native Studies, English as a Second Language and English Literacy Development, Technological Education, Canadian and World Studies, Social Studies and the Humanities, Core French, The Arts, Health and Physical Education, Guidance and Career Education and Business Studies.
Core French
Core French is an integral part of the Regular English Program. French is taught for the equivalent of 100 minutes per week in junior and senior kindergarten and 200 minutes per week from grades 1 to 8 inclusive.
The principal aim of the Core French Program is to develop basic communication skills in French and gain an appreciation of French culture in Canada and in other parts of the world. It allows students more time to concentrate on English language skills, while developing a basic level of proficiency in the French language. This program is mandatory for all elementary students not enrolled in French Immersion.
Every student enrolled in the Regular English Program has access to French Immersion programs starting in senior kindergarten (Early French Immersion), grade 4 (Middle French Immersion) or grade 7 (Late French Immersion).
At the secondary level, Core French is a single credit course (110 hours) and is offered at all levels from grades 9 to 12/OAC. In keeping with Ministry of Education requirements, French is compulsory in grade 9.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
English Program
Contact your school or see our fact sheet (English Program).
Immersion Programs
Contact your school or see our fact sheet (French as a Second Language Programs) on the various programs that are available.
Before parents make a final decision, they are encouraged to discuss the choice of program with appropriate school staff and other professionals.