French Immersion

Acquiring a new language helps students to develop intellectual tools, enabling them to face reality and the unknown, and to gain a different perspective of the world.

The Helping Teachers in French Immersion are committed to supporting teachers who are preparing students to be bilingual in both official languages. The goal is for students in French Immersion to attain the language and literacy competencies they will need to succeed at school, in the community, and in their personal and work life.

These dedicated educators provide support to instructors from Kindergarten through Grade 12, ensuring that the integration of language learning is seamless across all subjects. This comprehensive approach helps students not only master the language but also appreciate the cultural richness that accompanies it. The Helping Teachers actively promote cultural engagement by organizing district-wide events such as the French Film Festival and the Festival des Beaux Arts, which celebrates French language education and cultural heritage.

Key concepts or principles:

• Literacy and Numeracy Skills: Core competencies that are essential for students to understand and engage with content across various subjects while developing critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
• First Peoples Principles of Learning: These principles emphasize the interconnectedness of learning, recognizing the importance of community, culture, and experiential learning in the educational process. By incorporating these principles, French Immersion programs can create a more inclusive and holistic learning environment that respects and integrates Indigenous perspectives and knowledge.

Through these initiatives, the Helping Teachers aim to cultivate an enriching educational experience that not only prepares students for future academic and career opportunities but also fosters a lifelong appreciation for the French language and culture.

WHAT IS FRENCH IMMERSION?

French Immersion is an intensive second language acquisition program common in all provinces of Canada, including British Columbia. Students study in French while following the regular B.C. Curriculum Prescribed Learning Outcomes. French Immersion is available to all students. Students of all linguistic backgrounds are welcome. Parents need not speak English or French to enroll their children in French Immersion. Surrey French Immersion programs are provided in schools which also offer the regular English program.

The French Immersion program gives the students an opportunity to experience a whole new world. With the age of information, communication technology and travel upon us, knowing another language will assist students in having more career doors open to them as they become adults in the community.

FRENCH IMMERSION GOALS

1. To cultivate students who can comprehend and communicate in both French and English.
2. To encourage students to develop linguistic and cultural knowledge of Canada's official languages, fostering a spirit of positive appreciation and respect.
3. To support the intellectual, physical, emotional, social and creative development of children.
4. To cultivate awareness, appreciation, respect and understanding of both French and English cultures and values.
5. To empower students to pursue further education and careers in either or both languages.

In Surrey . . .

• Students enter the program in kindergarten or in Grade 6.
• French Immersion teachers speak French fluently and are certified in British Columbia.

CONNECT WITH US:

If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please feel free to contact us. 

Priority Practices - Department Contact
email: CI-office@surreyschools.ca           ph: 604-595-5325

Alicia Logie - French Immersion Helping Teacher
email: logie_a@surreyschools.ca             ph: 604-595-6049

Beverley Bunker - French Immersion Helping Teacher
email: bunker_b@surreyschools.ca          ph: 604-595-6004