Program Overview
Our program offers both credit and non-credit opportunities for students from outside Canada who wish to experience life in Ontario and take advantage of our first-class public education system. All courses offered are Ministry of Education approved and recognized around the world in major universities and colleges across many countries. Ontario is among the world leaders in education!
Credit courses require five (5 x 110 hours) months of study. Semester one (1) begins in September and semester two (2) begins in February. Students take four (4) subjects in each semester and over the course of four (4) years, students must earn 30 credits, which include 18 compulsory credits and 12 electives to be eligible to receive an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD).
Avon Maitland offers specialized English Second Language (coded ESL) courses to those international students who require language support. Our very successful program begins with our ESL Vital English pre-test assessment and is followed up by our ESL support staff who determine the level of English language training required. An individualized program will then be developed to best serve the student with ESL.
To assist our schools with programming for our international students, our International Student Program Department will collaborate with each school to determine a student’s timetable and advise staff to the academic and social needs of the new students. The International Student Department is also available to assist international students throughout their stay with any questions or concerns they might have while enrolled in our schools.
Syllabus
Avon Maitland’s 8 high schools offer courses in the following areas of study:
- English – both English literature and English Second Language courses are available
- Mathematics
- Canada and World Studies – including geography and history courses
- French as a second language, French Immersion for qualifying students
- Science – general in grade 10, and including biology, chemistry, physics and environmental science courses in grades 11 and 12
- Physical and Health Education
- Technical Studies – including manufacturing, woodworking, automotive mechanics, welding, cosmetology, culinary arts (foods), courses
- Arts – including visual arts, media arts, drama, vocal music, instrumental music
- Social Sciences – including parenting, anthropology, food and nutrition, sociology
- Computer Studies – including communications and programming, technical drafting
- Co-operative Education – students in grades 11 and 12 can opt to work and take this specific course so that they earn credits while obtaining work experience
For more information about our syllabus please visit our Course Calendars page.
Teachers and Staff
International students attend classes at their local school with all students from their community.
Ontario teachers must attend teachers’ colleges affiliated with Universities and must have a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed) as a minimum level of achievement in order to teach in our schools.
Our teachers are always learning about new teaching techniques and are kept abreast of the latest research in learning. There is a combination of traditional classroom instruction, computer (synchronous and asynchronous), independent learning and cooperative learning.
In collaboration with students, staff and education partners, our Strategic Plan was created. Click here to learn more about this Plan.
We strive to ensure our students are:
- Well – Supporting mental health and well-being are priorities. We work with GuardMe Insurance to offer a mental health support line for students 24-7, and assistance is available in many home languages
- Engaged – We want our students to participate in rich tasks to engage and motivate them to learn
- Prepared – We want our students to be prepared for whatever lies ahead!
Timetables
Students take four (4) courses each semester. Our school day commonly begins at 8:50 a.m. and ends at 3:00 p.m., depending on the school community.
Each secondary school has a minimum of 40 minutes set aside for the students’ lunch break.
Extra-curricular activities with team sports and clubs generally begin after school, though some schools do have these meetings and activities during the lunch breaks.
Many of our students will reside in rural areas outside each town or city in Avon Maitland. Those students are bused to and from school each day at no additional cost.
Important Links for Additional Information
Pathways – How AMDSB helps guide students to choose a postsecondary pathway appropriate for them.