French Immersion
French Immersion:
Learning the language in an integrated way, using many subjects
Some schools are dual-track, meaning they offer both programs, some schools only offer Core French, in which case students would change schools to register in French Immersion
Frequency:
Grade 2: 100%
Grade 3: 80%
Grades 4-8: 50% of the day
French Immersion Begins in Grade 2
In the Halton District School Board, the only entry point for the French Immersion program is Grade 2, with 100% instruction in French language. In Grade 3, it is an 80/20 model and all remaining grades in elementary school are 50/50. Please note, the HDSB does not offer Extended French Immersion.
Registration for September 2025 will open December 1, 2024 and continue until January 31, 2025. Please contact your home school if you have any questions.
Register for Grade 2 French Immersion: September 2025
Transitioning into French Immersion from Another School Board
Students may be assessed for the French Immersion program if they meet the following conditions that would be demonstrated through a French language assessment done at the Welcome Centre:
Students are coming from a French Immersion program where the hours of instruction in French are equal to or greater than the HDSB French Immersion program.
Students demonstrate a level of fluency (speaking, listening, reading and writing) equal to students in the French Immersion program resulting from regular opportunities to speak French at home or with other french-speaking people.
Please contact your local French Immersion school for more information
Parent Information about French Immersion
Please peruse the resources created for parents making the decision to register their Grade One student for French Immersion. We encourage you to discuss with your current teacher if you have any questions.
Resources
FSL Programs and Students with Special Needs
For more information about French as a Second Language programs in English-language school boards, including students with special needs and English language learners, refer to the information and resources posted on the Ontario Ministry of Education website.
In the Halton District School Board, we believe that every child is capable of learning French. There are six principles set out by the Ontario Ministry of Education that guide our work:
French as a Second Language programs are for all students
Teaching and learning French is recognized and valued
French as a Second Language serves as a bridge between languages and cultures
Learning French as a Second Language strengthens literacy skills
Research informs decision-making, and
Learning French as a Second Language is a lifelong journey
Online Resources to Support Your Child at Home with FSL Acquisition
Understanding French As a Second Language Programs - What Parents Need to Know
Understanding French Immersion - Q&A