Extended French
The Extended French Program:
Bienvenue! We invite you and your grade four student to consider enrolling in one of the Near North District School Board’s extended French programs, which begin at the start of grade 5.
The aim of the extended French program is to increase students’ ability to communicate in French, so that they will be able to “communicate and interact with growing confidence in French, one of Canada’s official languages, while developing the knowledge, skills, and perspectives they need to participate fully as citizens in Canada and in the world.” (Ministry of Education, French as a Second Language curriculum policy document, p. 6)
Research confirms that second language learning strengthens first-language skills. As well, learning a second language enhances in students the reasoning, problem-solving and creative-thinking skills necessary for our 21st century learners, providing them with a distinct advantage in their future pathways.
EXTENDED FRENCH PATHWAY
2023-24 Registration Open
Near North District School Board will be accepting school registrations through an online application process. Parents registering online will need to complete additional forms to finalize the registration process when schools reopen. If you have any questions regarding the registration process or require assistance please call 705-472-8170 or email info@nearnorthschools.ca.
New Student Registration
New to the NNDSB?
Existing Student Registration
Already an NNDSB Student?
Inclusive Programming
The extended French program is a French language learning option that is open and available to all students, including students with special needs and identified students. Student IEPs will outline the supports necessary for student success.
Culturally Enriching
In this program French is taught not only as a subject, but is also used as the language of instruction in other content areas, thus providing an immersion experience that offers dynamic and culturally-rich learning opportunities.
Secondary Pathways
At the secondary level, schools may grant a certificate in extended French when the student has completed a sequence of four courses in extended French and three courses in other subjects taught in French.
SCHOOLS OFFERING EXTENDED FRENCH
ELEMENTARY
- Maple View Public School
- Land of Lakes Public School
- Parry Sound Public School
- White Woods Public School
SECONDARY
- Almaguin Highlands Secondary School
- F.J. McElligott Secondary School
- Northern Secondary School
- Parry Sound High School
- West Ferris Secondary School

EXTENDED FRENCH HOURS OF INSTRUCTION
GRADES 5 AND 6
60% instruction in French
3 hours per day
GRADES 7 AND 8
50% instruction in French
2.5 hours per day
SECONDARY
A minimum of 4 Extended French courses
3 other courses taught in French