In my previous post, I wrote about my English immersion adventure in Vancouver and about how I made the most of my learning opportunities in my second language. This time, I’d like to introduce you to two immersion programs that were created by the Council of Ministers of Education, Canada (CMEC): Explore and Destination Clic. These programs give students the opportunity to improve their knowledge of, and skills in, one of Canada’s two official languages.
Background
After passing the Official Languages Act, the Government of Canada launched initiatives to promote the learning of English and French. The Summer Language Bursary Program (SLBP) was founded in 1971. This program, whose mandate was to offer students the opportunity to improve their second official language and discover the culture associated with the language, later became Explore. The Programme de bourses d’été pour francophones hors Québec (PBEFHQ), a summer bursary program for Francophones outside Quebec, was created in 1977. This program, now known as Destination Clic, allows Francophone residents from a province or territory other than Quebec to improve their first language and learn more about the Francophone culture.
Explore
Explore is a French immersion bursary program of three or five weeks for students. Participants receive a $2200 scholarship, which covers tuition, instructional materials, meals and accommodations. By participating in the program, you’ll have a chance to discover another part of Canada, while learning French in classes that match your level of language proficiency. In addition, through classroom instruction, workshops, socio-cultural activities and field trips, you’ll not only improve your language skills but also meet wonderful people and have amazing experiences in an environment that is conducive to learning French.
Destination Clic
Destination Clic is a bursary program for Francophone students in Grades 8 and 9 who attend a Francophone school and live outside Quebec. Participants receive a $2000 bursary, which covers tuition, instructional materials, meals and accommodations. Participating in this program means having three weeks to discover the Canadian Francophonie. You’ll have the opportunity to improve your language skills in a stimulating environment and forge wonderful friendships that will last a lifetime.
Target audience
You must be at least 13 years old to qualify for Explore, while Destination Clic is for students in Grades 8 and 9. There are no requirements relating to your academic performance or language competencies. However, you must meet certain criteria for each program. For more information on the eligibility criteria, please visit the following web pages:
How to apply
On the program website, under the “Apply Now!” tab, you’ll find all the information you need to apply and register online. It’s simple and easy. You’re only a few clicks away from having a chance to live a language adventure! But don’t wait too long! The deadline for applying to Explore this year is February 15, 2019. If you’re interested in Destination Clic, you have until March 31.
For more information
By visiting the Explore and Destination Clic websites, you’ll have access to a wealth of information on all the opportunities available to you to improve your language skills.
I encourage you to believe in your dreams, think big about your future and use the resources at your disposal to achieve your full potential.
If you know some young people who might be interested in these programs, tell them about my blog post! And if you’ve already participated in Explore or Destination Clic, or another language immersion program, please share your experience with us in the comments section below.
Translated by Josephine Versace, Language Portal of Canada
