What is the Newcomer Reception and Assessment Centre?

The Newcomer Reception and Assessment Centre is a place where all new English Language Learners and First Nation, Métis, or Inuit students and their families are welcomed into the Grand Erie District School Board community.

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Where is it located?

The Newcomer Reception Centre is located at:

Joseph Brant Learning Centre

347 Erie Avenue, Brantford, Ontario Canada N3T 5VT

Who to contact?

To make an appointment, please email or call: 

ESL/ELD Teacher Consultant at 519-756-6301 ext. 281043 or email info@granderie.ca

Aboriginal Education Teacher Consultant at 519-756-6301 ext. 281039

Toll-free:  1-888-548-8878

What happens at the Newcomer Reception and Assessment Centre?

• If required, we provide newcomers with language and cultural interpretation
• We assess the student’s current level of English language (reading, writing and speaking) and Math skills
• We make recommendations to appropriate programs
• We introduce newcomer families and students to the Ontario Elementary and Secondary school system
• If the student is not registered at the school, we will set up an appointment with the school for registration and proper integration into the school
• A Settlement Officer from the YMCA’s Immigration Settlement Services will:
• Meet with parents and guardians to provide newcomer families information on community services and resources
• Help families connect with services and agencies that can offer assistance that they may need
  

Who should go to the Newcomer Reception and Assessment centre?

• Any elementary or secondary student new to Canada, entering the Ontario school system for the first time (SK- grade 12)
• Any student from a French language school where French is their first language in the home
• Any student from the United States, United Kingdom, New Zealand, or Australia who has spent less than two years in an English language school system
• Canadian born students who have moved to a country where English is not their first language and have re-entered Canada after two or more years
• First Nation, Métis, or Inuit students who speak a Native Language in the home or are entering the school board from a Native Language Immersion program

What documents do I need for my orientation or assessment?

• Passport
• Permanent Residence Card or Landing form
• Birth Certificate
• Proof of Immunization
• Proof of Address
• Most recent school documents

Additional Resources

Ministry of Education - Elementary

Ministry of Education - Secondary

Policies and Procedures for Ontario Elementary and Secondary Schools, Kindergarten to Grade 12