French as a Second Language (FSL)

French programming at the Keewatin-Patricia District School Board is designed to cultivate students’ French language skills while fostering an appreciation for Francophone cultures. The KPDSB focuses on a balanced approach that integrates listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills. Educators use authentic materials such as literature, music, and multimedia resources to provide students with French-speaking experiences and opportunities. Interactive and communicative activities encourage students to engage in meaningful conversations and apply their language skills in practical contexts. Technology is used to enhance learning, with language-learning apps, and online resources. Cultivating cultural competency exposes students to a wide variety of opportunities to develop their French-speaking skills while instilling a broader cultural awareness. The KPDSB offers a variety of French programs, which include French Immersion, Core French, and Extended French. FSL programs are for all students, including students with special needs and English language learners.

Why Learn French?

Learning a second language does more than just help you speak—it changes how you think. Benefits include:

  • Brain Development: Research shows that learning a second language improves memory, reasoning, and creative thinking.
  • Effective Communication Skills: Students can connect with French speakers in Canada and across the globe.
  • Career Advantages: In a global job market, being bilingual gives graduates a major competitive edge.
  • First-Language Support: Studying French actually helps students improve their English grammar and vocabulary.

Certification of French Language Competency

The KPDSB offers Grade 12 FSL students an opportunity to challenge the Diplôme d'études en langue française (DELF) examination, through which students may earn a diploma from the Ministry of Education of France to certify their level of French language competency.

Our Programs

We believe French is for everyone, including students with special needs and those learning English. We offer two main pathways: French Immersion (in Kenora and Dryden) and Core French (with Extended French option in Kenora).

French Immersion

Available in Dryden & Kenora | Kindergarten – Grade 12

The KPDSB offers French Immersion programs in Dryden and Kenora, from Kindergarten through Grade 12. Up to Grade 8, a minimum of 50% of instruction in the French Immersion program is provided in French each year. This includes the study of French as a Second Language and at least two other subjects where French is the language of instruction. At the secondary level, students in the French Immersion program will accumulate 10 credits in French: four for FSL language courses and six for other subjects in which French is the language of instruction. Students’ proficiency in French increases based on the amount of time and the level of intensity of instruction in French.

Where is it offered?

You can find French Immersion at the following KPDSB schools:

Core French

Grades 4–12

Keewatin-Patricia District School Board elementary and secondary schools provide Core French language programming for students in Grades 4-12. From Grade 4 through Grade 8, students must accumulate a minimum of 600 hours of French instruction. In most schools, this adds up to approximately 200 minutes of French language instruction per week. At the secondary level, students must obtain one Grade 9 Core French credit (or one Grade 9 Native Language credit) to be eligible to receive their Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) at the end of Grade 12. Secondary schools offer additional elective French courses in Grades 10-12 that follow the Ontario FSL curriculum (secondary programming may be dependent on enrolment; check with your local high school for more information).

Extended French

Available in Kenora at Beaver Brae

Extended French in an optional program at Beaver Brae school in Kenora. This includes the study of French as a Second Language and at least one other subject where French is the language of instruction. At the secondary level, students in the Extended French program will accumulate seven credits in French: four for FSL language courses and three for other subjects in which French is the language of instruction. Extended French programming is currently available at Beaver Brae School in Kenora.

Learn more about French Immersion at KPDSB

Check out our video below, or scroll down for our Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to speak French at home?

No. The program is specifically designed for students whose first language is not French. All school-to-home communication (newsletters, progress reports, and meetings) is in English. You can support your child simply by giving them encouragement and reading to them in your home language.

Will my child fall behind in English?

Not in the long run. While students might show a small temporary lag in English skills in the early years, research shows they quickly catch up once English is introduced in the classroom.

If my child has learning challenges, won't French Immersion be too hard?

No. It is a common myth that French Immersion is only for students who find school easy. Research shows that the program can benefit all learners. Our educators use Differentiated Instruction, which means they adapt their teaching styles to meet each student's unique needs. We use visual aids, hands-on activities, and a "Structured Literacy" approach (focusing on phonics and sounds) to make sure every child can build confidence and succeed.

We are new to Canada and still learning English. Is French Immersion a good idea?

Yes, it’s a great opportunity! We welcome "Newcomers" and English language learners. Your child doesn't need to master English before starting French. Because our teachers use so many visuals and simplified instructions for beginners, students who are new to English often find they can keep pace and build skills in both of Canada's official languages at the same time.

What if we realize the program isn't a good fit later on?

We want your child to be successful. Because New Prospect and Valleyview are dual-track schools (offering both French and English programs), the transition is simple. You won't have to move your child to a different school or community; we can simply adjust their language of instruction within the same building they already know and love.

Is there a bus for my child?

Yes. Because these are regional programs, any student living within the Dryden or Kenora area is generally eligible for busing to our French Immersion schools, provided they meet the standard distance criteria.

For more information about French Language Programming or teaching opportunities within KPDSB, please contact:
[email protected]