International students at the secondary level are welcomed into Mentor College into one of two programmes: the International Programme (with ESL support) or the mainstream College Programme (fully integrated). ESL students at the elementary level (when deemed suitable candidates) may be suited for our TEAM School programme.
The Mentor College HS International Programme is designed to improve the language proficiency level of students in Grades 9 to 12 from non-English-speaking countries. Emphasis is placed on providing a safe and positive learning environment in which students are encouraged to explore the features of their new language.
Our students come from such countries as Korea, Brazil, China, Germany, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Spain, Vietnam, and Taiwan. All students write an English proficiency test, the results of which (along with previous academic records) help to determine their placement in the programme. Placement in the appropriate English level will ensure that they are able to function effectively in English and develop their self-confidence.
Individual attention is given to each student and classes are kept small to facilitate individual learning.The goal of the programme is to ensure a high level of proficiency in all four skill areas: speaking, listening, reading, and writing.
From an academic standpoint, the integration begins in Grade 9 when students are enrolled in mathematics, science, geography or history, physical education, and their elective courses. Most importantly, students will be enrolled in 2 English courses for the entire year.
Participation in extracurricular activities (various sports teams or clubs) fosters personal growth and offers opportunities for language- learning outside the classroom. Furthermore, it provides students with valuable teamwork skills and life lessons and allows the student to form new friendships in the Canadian community.
In the senior grades, students who require English support or who require additional Grade 9 or 10 ESL classes are considered part of the International Programme. If the school determines that the student’s language proficiency is at grade level, the student may be offered admission to the mainstream College programme.
"One of the ways in which our programme is different from international schools is the integration of our students into the Mentor College high school community, where our international students can interact in a meaningful way with native English speakers."
Randy Hall
Vice Principal - High School Division
M.Ed., Brock University
