The Grand Welcome Centre/Newcomers

• If required, we provide newcomers with language and cultural interpretation.
• We assess student’s current level of English language to make the appropriate program recommendations for student success.
• We make recommendations to appropriate programs.
• We introduce newcomer families and students to the Ontario Elementary and Secondary school system.
• We set up an appointment with the school for registration and proper integration into the school.
• A Settlement Officer from the YMCA’s Immigration Settlement Services:
• Meets with parents and guardians to provide newcomer families information on community services and resources.
• Helps families connect with services and agencies that can offer assistance.

• Any elementary or secondary student new to Canada, entering the Ontario school system for the first time (Kindergarten to grade 12)
• Any student from a French language school where French is their first language in the home
• Any student arriving from a country where the first language is other than English
• Any student arriving from an English-speaking country (such as: United States, England, Australia or New Zealand) and has spent less than two years in an English language school system
• Canadian-born students who have moved to a country where English is not their first language and have re-entered Canada after two or more years

Proof of Immigration Status:

Provide one of the following documents:

• Passport
• Permanent Resident Card or Landing Card
• Work Permit
• Student Visa
• Refugee Status 

Additional: 

Provide proof of each of the following:

• Date of birth (Birth Certificate if a passport is not provided)
• Proof of Immunization
• Proof of Home Address
• School Transcripts (if available)

• Ministry of Education - Elementary
• Ministry of Education - Secondary
• Policies and Procedures for Ontario Elementary and Secondary Schools, Kindergarten to Grade 12