STUDENT EXCHANGE PROGRAMS
OCENET
SCHOOL TRIPS
Would you like to participate in a national or international student exchange?
Make an appointment with your guidance counsellor to discuss student exchange opportunities (i.e., short-term vs. long-term exchanges, summer options, timetable considerations, etc.)
Learn more at OCENET (Ottawa-Carleton Education Network): Student Exchange Information
EXCHANGES &.pdfFrench Summer Learning Opportunity: (CLOSED FOR 2024)
Earn Two High School Credits through The Explore Program
This summer, secondary students can have the opportunity to spend 3-4 weeks immersed in a French language environment to help build language skills; enjoy French cultural activities; and connect with other FSL students from across Canada.
The Explore program is open to OCDSB students entering grades 10, 11 or 12 in September 2024 at any level of French (Open, Core or Immersion). Students who complete a language portfolio and oral interview in addition to this experiential learning opportunity will have the chance to earn both a French Language credit and a Travel & Tourism credit. To learn more, complete this form. Registration is open until February 6, 2024
YMCA Summer Work Student Exchange (SWSE)
The YMCA Summer Work Student Exchange (SWSE) is a national program offering opportunities for youth to improve their second official language skills, explore another part of Canada, and gain valuable work experience. The program is federally funded by the Department of Canadian Heritage, so it is offered at a minimal cost of $125 for a 6-week, once-in-a-lifetime experience in the summer. For more information check out the SWSE website and apply by early spring 2024!
This program offers:
The opportunity to live and work in a French-speaking community in Québec for 6 weeks and build upon FLS education in a real-world and hands-on setting (There is no minimum language requirement, we accept youth with ANY level of French skills!)
Paid, full-time summer employment in the non-profit sector (camps, child care, museums, etc.)
A reciprocal homestay – youth are hosted in each other’s homes to deepen the cultural exchange The support of local YMCA staff such as myself, who also coordinate weekly group activities to explore the city and bond with the group
New relationships and friendships that continue beyond the duration of the program
Here are some other Travel / Exchange programs
Putney Student Travel High School Program: www.goputney.com/
National Geographic Student Expeditions: www.ngstudentexpeditions.com/
OCDSB/OCENET International Study Abroad Bursary
Students make a difference at home and around the world! Thanks to the Ottawa-Carleton Education Network, a bursary has been established to support and encourage students to engage in cultural exchange, international learning and the development of global competencies. A number of experiences can qualify for these bursaries including:
Student Study Abroad
Cultural Exchanges (including remote communities in northern Canada)
International School Trips (Outside Canada and the United States)
Summer credit courses abroad (must be a recognized credit in Ontario)