This document was last revised in 2000 and, while may still be useful in a general sense, should not be depended on for the most up-to-date information concerning ministry policy.

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Second Language

The provincial language education policy recognizes the strong educational benefits associated with learning a second language, and it also recognizes the cultural and linguistic diversity of the province.

All students must take a second language as part of the required curriculum in Grades 5 to 8 unless they are eligible for an exemption. The languages taught will be chosen by the school board. If no alternative is selected by the school board, French will be the language taught. School boards will base their selection of alternative second languages on community demand, student enrolment, and the availability of quality curriculum and teaching resources. Curriculum for second languages offered in Grades 5 to 12 must be ministry-authorized. When an assessment indicates that a student should be exempted because of special needs, the exemption must be documented in the student's Individual Education Plan (IEP).

Local school boards should support the language preferences of Aboriginal students. Whenever possible, school boards should consult widely with the Aboriginal communities to determine which languages should be offered.