The two types of education serve different purposes and parents' choice depends on their options, priorities, goals and Charter rights.

1. French first language

As its name implies, French first language education is tailor-made for children with francophone roots from at least one parent. The francophone school is a facility designed for living, learning, and integrating the French language, culture and community. In other words, it exists not only to address students' academic needs but to help them explore and develop their francophone heritage. It also provides a unique setting for children with francophone roots to gain additive, balanced bilingualism.

French first language education is intended for children who are eligible under section 23 of the Canadian Charter of rights and Freedoms

Francophone schooling takes place entirely in French from kindergarten to the end of high school; French language and francophone culture in the classroom are a natural extension of children's family and community life. Students also learn English starting in Grade 4.

Upon graduation, they can expect to be highly proficient in French and identify with and be part of the francophone culture and community. They'll also be highly proficient in English, and be able to pursue postsecondary studies and work in either official language.

2. French immersion

French immersion is designed for children whose family heritage is other than French. The goal is to learn French as a second language. French is the language of instruction for a significant portion of each school day, although the amount varies from one program to another. Immersion begins with a focus on language development so that students can learn to speak and read French well enough to study other subjects in that language. They also study the English-language curriculum and other courses in English.

When they complete an immersion program, students may be functionally fluent in French (able to live, work, and pursue postsecondary studies in French). In addition, they'll have gained an understanding and appreciation of francophone culture.

Francophone schools across Canada (outside Québec) are intended for Canadian citizens who qualify under section 23 of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. According to section 23, the following people are eligible:

• all children of a parent whose first language learned and still understood is French;
• all children of a parents who received his or her primary school instruction in Canada in French *;
• all children whose sibling has received or is receiving primary or secondary school instruction in Canada in French*.

* Instruction must take place in French first language. French immersion does not confer section 23 rights.

The above text has been taken from a booklet called «I'm with you!» which has been published by the Fédération des parents francophones de l'Alberta (FPFA) for English-speaking parents across Canada. If you want to read more about this subject, contact the FPFA by email at fpfa [a] francalta.ab.ca or by phone at 780-468-6934.

Francophone schools across Canada (outside Québec) are intended for Canadian citizens who qualify under section 23 of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. According to section 23, the following people are eligible:

• all children of a parent whose first language learned and still understood is French;
• all children of a parents who received his or her primary school instruction in Canada in French *;
• all children whose sibling has received or is receiving primary or secondary school instruction in Canada in French*.

* Instruction must take place in French first language. French immersion does not confer section 23 rights.

The above text has been taken from a booklet called «I'm with you!» which has been published by the Fédération des parents francophones de l'Alberta (FPFA) for English-speaking parents across Canada. If you want to read more about this subject, contact the FPFA by email at fpfa [a] francalta.ab.ca or by phone at 780-468-6934.

If you want to tour the school, meet the staff and register your child, please fill out our online request form or contact the school of your choice!

Registrations are accepted at all times!

Child care services are available at all our elementary schools.