Elementary French Programs

Choose the French Program That Fits Your Child. BHNCDSB offers two Elementary French programs:

Core French (Grades 4–8)

Core French is available in every BHNCDSB elementary school. It provides steady, consistent French learning that helps students develop practical language skills they can use in real-life situations.

French Immersion Pathway (Beginning in Grade 1)

French Immersion is a more intensive option where students receive at least half of their instruction in French, building stronger fluency over time through meaningful daily use of the language.

Students from both the Core French and the Extended French programs in High School can challenge the DELF proficiency exam. The Diplôme d’études en langue française (DELF) is an internationally recognized certification of proficiency in French for those whose first language is not French.

For families considering French Immersion beginning in Grade 1, BHNCDSB offers early registration through an English Kindergarten classroom with a French Immersion pathway at a nearby dual-track school.

In Kindergarten, students will:

  • Follow the English Kindergarten program
  • Learn literacy and numeracy in English
  • Explore simple French words and expressions through songs and play
  • Are introduced to French in a low-pressure, welcoming way

This option helps children (and families) feel confident stepping into French Immersion in Grade 1.

Where French Immersion Is Offered (Elementary)

French Immersion is available at these dual-track schools:

  • Sacred Heart (Paris)
  • St. Leo (Brantford)
  • Madonna Della Libera (Brantford)
  • St. Joseph (Simcoe)
  • Notre Dame (Caledonia)