100 Mile Elementary
École 100 Mile Elementary French Immersion Kindergarten
Choosing a Kindergarten program is an important decision. French Immersion offers children the opportunity to learn Canada’s two official languages while receiving a full, high-quality education within BC’s public school system. The program supports academic success while nurturing children’s social, emotional, and cultural development.
What Is French Immersion?
French Immersion is a BC Ministry of Education–approved program for children whose first language is not French.
· Students learn the regular BC curriculum
· Instruction is mainly in French in the early years
· Students develop strong skills in both French and English
French Immersion is not a Francophone program and does not require French to be spoken at home. Starting in Kindergarten allows French to become a natural part of learning, rather than an added subject later on.
Early Entry
Our district offers Early French Immersion beginning in Kindergarten. This is the only entry point into the program.
Do Parents Need to Speak French?
No. French Immersion is designed for non-French-speaking families. Teachers use visuals, repetition, gestures, and routines to support learning. Families can support their child in English at home.
Academic Benefits
Students in French Immersion:
· Meet or exceed provincial learning standards
· Develop strong English literacy over time
· Strengthen memory, problem-solving, and thinking skills
Students learn the same curriculum as their peers, with the added benefit of a second language.
Considering the Challenges
French Immersion is a strong and enriching program, but it can feel more challenging at first. This is a normal part of learning in a new language.
In the early months, children may need more time to process instructions, be quieter while listening and learning, or feel more tired at the end of the day. This is expected and temporary.
Progress May Feel Slower at First. Some children may, express ideas more simply, take longer to explain their thinking, feel frustrated when words are hard to find. This does not mean children are falling behind academically.
Emotional & Mental Effort
Learning in a second language requires extra focus. Some children may feel hesitant or frustrated at first. Teachers use supportive routines, reassurance, and strong relationships to help students build confidence.
Supporting Your Child at Home
Parents do not need to speak French. Families can support with daily routines that involve sharing what has been learned, encouragement and reassurance, and positive attitude toward learning. Teachers design learning with this in mind.
Is French Immersion Right for Every Child?
Many children thrive in French Immersion. However, it may be more challenging for some learners, particularly those with significant language-based learning needs or high anxiety around communication. Families are encouraged to discuss individual needs with school staff.
How Do I Enroll in French Immersion?
If you are part of the catchment area for our school, you simply indicate on your registration forms that you would like your child to be enrolled in French Immersion. If you are not part of our catchment (your school would be Mile 108, Horse Lake, or Forest Grove) you will register at your home school and apply online for Schools of Choice. PLEASE DO THIS AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. Applications are processed in the order in which they are received, and late applicants cannot be guaranteed placement in our program.
If you have further questions, please contact the school.
If your catchment school is NOT 100 Mile Elementary you will need to apply for a School of Choice to attend our French Immersion program.
What is School of Choice?
School of Choice is the process families use if they would like their child to attend a school other than their neighbourhood (catchment) school.
Important Dates
- Applications open: January 26, 2026
- Application deadline: March 11, 2026
Applications submitted after the deadline may not be considered.
How to Apply
- Register your child at your catchment school first.
- During the application window, complete the online School of Choice application.
- If you need support completing the form, please visit the office and we can help.
Important Things to Know
- School of Choice approval depends on available space at the requested school.
- Families are responsible for transportation and any related costs. Additional bussing is not guaranteed.
- If your child is applying to attend French Immersion at a school outside your catchment area, a School of Choice application is required.
- Families will be notified by email once decisions are made. The review process may continue from April through mid-September.
Thank you for taking the time to review this information. We look forward to supporting your family with planning for the upcoming school year.