International Education & Student Exchanges

In such a rapidly changing and increasingly complex global environment, it is tremendously beneficial for our students, staff and school communities to be provided with opportunities to celebrate diversity and, experience other cultures and educational systems. For our students, most specifically, initiatives related to international education broaden horizons and perspectives, promote inclusivity and respect for others, and develop a wide array of knowledge and skills that will serve them well as they become responsible global citizens.

The Renfrew County District School Board has established a series of partnerships and projects – both at home and abroad – in order to provide genuine, engaging, teaching and learning opportunities in an international context for staff and students alike.

International Students in Renfrew County

The RCDSB hosts students in our secondary school each year through our partnership with the YES Canada organization. We have welcomed students from a variety of countries, including France, Italy, Australia, Japan and Norway. 

The RCDSB and YES Canada are always seeking families to host international high school students from countries around the world who are scheduled to attend our schools for upcoming programs that will last for a duration of 3 to 10 months. 

• YES Canada Website - https://youthedservices.ca/ 

L'Academic Clermont-Ferrand and RCDSB

Through the Embassy of France in Ottawa, the RCDSB entered into partnerships with L’Academic Clermont Ferrand, France, to promote the expansion of International Education in our District.  The RCDSB's partnership with L'Academic Clermont-Ferrand aims to promote staff and student interactions between France and Canada for the educational benefit of all.

French Exchange Opportunity for Grade 10 Students

• The RCDSB and l'Academie Clermont-Ferrand are planning individual French-Canadian student exchanges, beginning in early 2025.  French students will live with Canadian students and attend classes at their school.  Then, Canadian students will complete the return part of the exchange in France and attend the same school as their exchange partner. 

• This exchange opportunity is open to students who are studying French as a Second language, either in French Immersion, Extended French or Core French.

• RCDSB students taking part in L'Academie Clermont-Ferrand French exchange can apply individually and are recommended for the program by their teachers. Students from RCDSB and L'Academic Clermont-Ferrand are then matched based on their similar interests.

International Student Selection Process

All international students coming into the RCDSB go through an application process. The organizing agency will assess the application and often interview the student to determine their suitability to study abroad for a specific period of time.

Durations for all exchanges and international study opportunities range from short-term (one week) to long-term (two semesters). Durations are based on the type of exchange or international study opportunity and can be influenced by the organization arranging the opportunity, as well as student commitments and affordability.

Board-Approved Student Exchange Organizations

These not-for-profit student exchange agencies are the only student exchange organizations currently supported by the RCDSB. They have established reputations and documentation that support a commitment to reciprocal exchanges without requesting payment of tuition fees.

• Rotary Club International - https://www.rotary.org/en/our-programs/youth-exchanges 

• International Student Exchange - Ontario (ISE) - https://iseontario.on.ca/ 

Secondary school students who would like to participate in a student exchange should contact their principal or Guidance office for more information.