French Immersion

The Huron-Perth Catholic District School is proud to offer French Immersion in four Catholic schools that serve both Huron and Perth counties.  The French Immersion program formally begins in elementary schools in Grade 1, however, we welcome the registration of children in Kindergarten at St. Mary’s Catholic School, Goderich and Jeanne Sauvé​ Catholic School, Stratford. We have just recently expanded our French Immersion program to include St. Mary’s Catholic School in Listowel. Please contact the school if you are interested or have any questions.

Grade 1 is the only entry point for students without prior French instruction.

Our French Immersion program in secondary schools offers an enriched set of courses to support the achievement of ten credits in the French language.

We offer French Immersion in the following communities:​​

For more information on French Immersion in Ontario, please go to http://www.edu.gov.on.ca/frenchimmersion​.

Diplôme d’Études en Langue Française (DELF)

The Huron-Perth Catholic District School Board is delighted to provide its Grade 12 French Immersion and Core French students with the opportunity to challenge the Diplôme d’Études en Langue Française (DELF). This is an extremely valuable initiative that promotes linguistic diversity and cultural understanding. By offering the DELF, students can assess and certify their French language proficiency, opening doors to broader educational and career opportunities in a globalized world while fostering a deep appreciation for the French language and culture.

What is the DELF?
The Diplôme d’études en langue Française (DELF) is an internationally recognized proficiency exam from France. It is based on the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR), which defines language proficiency along six global levels: A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, and C2. At each level, proficiency is measured across four competencies: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. The French Ministry of National Education awards a diploma to successful candidates. 

What are the benefits of challenging the DELF?
The DELF serves as a testimony to an individual’s success and accomplishments in their French language learning journey. It acknowledges a learner’s personal achievements and progress along their unique path to French proficiency, making it a valuable addition to a student’s résumé and a testament to the dedication and hard work invested the language.

Who can take the DELF?
Only students who are currently enrolled in a Grade 12 French Immersion and Core French classes are eligible. Students who withdraw from their French class may forfeit the opportunity to challenge the DELF.

The DELF at Huron-Perth Catholic District School Board

  • Two test levels will be offered this year: A2, and B1. Students may challenge only one level.
  • Choice regarding which level to challenge should be made with assistance from the student’s FSL teacher.
  • Students will be tested on all four competencies: oral, listening, reading and writing (accommodations are provided for students with an IEP).
  • All students will complete an oral interview either preceding or following the written component of the exam.
  • Transportation to and from the testing site is the responsibility of the student.
  • Information about current year tests will be posted when it becomes available
Test Level Date of Written Exam Time Location
B1 Tuesday, May 14, 2024 12:00 – 1:55 p.m. St. Anne’s CSS, Clinton
A2 Wednesday, May 15, 2024 12:00 – 1:40 p.m. St. Anne’s CSS, Clinton

The date and time of the written exam is determined internationally and cannot be changed.

The oral interview will be scheduled either prior to the written test or following the written test on the same day as the written test.

How will the DELF be evaluated?
Each competency area is evaluated individually by a team of teachers who are trained DELF examiners. Successful candidates must receive a score greater than 20% in each category, with an overall score of 50%. Evaluation is according to international standards set by the Centre International des études pédagogiques.

How can my child prepare for the DELF?
Preparation for the test is the responsibility of the student. The DELF is not part of the curriculum; it is an optional activity for students who are interested in seeing how their skills measure on a test that is taken internationally. Preparation specific to the DELF does not happen during French class.

How can my child register for the DELF?
Registration is done online. Complete the online registration form. Registration is limited and restricted to students in their final Grade 12 French course. Confirmation of participation will be sent to the email address provided at the time of registration. Registration will be closed Friday, April 12, 2024 at noon. Further information will be sent to the email provided at the time of registration. Be sure to provide an email address that you check regularly so that you don’t miss important updates about the testing.

Is there a cost?
This marks the inaugural year of offering the DELF in Huron-Peth Catholic, and as a special initiative, there will be no charge for those wishing to take on the DELF challenge.