French Immersion is a program of studies in which French is the language of instruction for a significant part of the school day. All core subjects are taught in French (except the formal study of English). French Immersion is designed for students whose first language is not French. The objective of the program is full mastery of the English language, functional fluency in French, as well as an understanding and appreciation of the French culture.
You don't have to speak French!
The French Immersion program is designed for children whose parents do not usually speak French. Parent-teacher conferences are held in English and report cards are always written in English. The philosophy of the immersion program is that no child should be denied the satisfaction and pride derived from becoming bilingual in the French language, and all children are welcome.
Our division school environments reflect Canadian heritage
As a division, St. Albert Public Schools is committed to offering French Immersion in a dual-track setting, which means that French Immersion and English students are housed in the same building. This dual-track philosophy ensures that French Immersion students and students in regular English programs learn from each other through school-wide activities. Beyond the acquisition of a second language, there is an aspect of cultural appreciation, respect and mutual understanding. We believe that this approach reflects our Canadian heritage and benefits all students.
Success of French Immersion - the bilingual advantage
After 30 years of growth and development, French Immersion is one of the most studied educational programs. French Immersion is known all over the world as the Great Canadian Invention that worked. Each year, thousands of students graduate with excellent language skills in both languages. Many of these graduates have also said they would enroll their own children in French Immersion. French Immersion works!
Academics - just the beginning
French Immersion results on achievement tests and diploma examinations tell a story of success and student growth. As well, each year, French Immersion students receive hundreds of thousands of scholarship dollars, certificates and medals that attest to our students accomplishments in academics, science, fine arts and athletics, as well as their involvement in school and community affairs. The success of students graduating from our French Immersion Program can also be gauged by the high number of post secondary placements, and by the number of graduates who follow career paths that are fulfilling and rewarding.
The lives of French Immersion students are truly enriched by bilingual abilities and cross-cultural experiences. They thrive in a program that is supported by meaningful partnerships in learning between teachers, parents, and a host of supporters from within the community.
More than the gift of language
It's one thing to learn a language. It's another to embrace an opportunity to learn a language through an immersion process that assimilates the historical, cultural and social perspectives of a blended heritage along the way. That rich experience is the very essence of learning. It is the gift that parents give to their children when they enroll them in our French Immersion program.
Late French Immersion
St. Albert Public Schools also offers St. Albert's only Late French Immersion program, designed for students entering Grade 7 who have little or no background in French but would like to become bilingual by the end of Grade 12. Find out more.
Hear from our students and staff firsthand about their immersion experience: