Core French is the mandatory program for all Ontario students who are in English programs. This program begins in Grade 4 and is offered through elementary school to Grade 8. It offers one period of French instruction per day. There is one compulsory secondary credit for students in Ontario to receive their secondary school diploma, usually taken in Grade 9, however Core French is available in most schools to the end of Grade 12.
Intensive French programs
Early French Immersion (JK) and the Middle French Immersion (Grade 4) are the two system-wide “Intensive” French programs. In both these programs, students develop their proficiency in French by studying French language as well as other subjects taught in French. Both of these programs are designed for families who do not speak French at home.
Early French Immersion begins in Junior Kindergarten. All class activities are conducted in French until the end of Grade 3 although some specialist subjects (like Health and Physical Education) may be taught in English. Formal English instruction is introduced in Grade 4. The program continues with 50% instruction in French and 50% in English for Grades 4-8. Students who successfully complete the Secondary French Immersion program will receive a Certificate of Bilingual Studies in French Immersion from the TDSB upon graduation.
For more information about the Early French Immersion program, please view the flyer (available in multiple languages) on the right-hand side of the page.
Middle French Immersion begins in Grade 4. All class activities in Grades 4 and 5 are conducted in French although some specialist subjects (like Health and Physical Education) may be taught in English. In Grades 6 to 8, all subjects will be taught in French with the exception of English Language and Science. The students in the Grade 4 Middle French Immersion program blend with the students from the Early French Immersion in Grade 9. Students who successfully complete the Secondary French Immersion program will receive a Certificate of Bilingual Studies in French Immersion from the TDSB upon graduation.
For more information about the Middle French Immersion program, please view the flyer (available in multiple languages) on the right-hand side of the page.
Please note that changes to Intensive French program models and entry points began in 2021. Please consult French Programs Review & Upcoming Changes to FSL Programs for details.