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When buying a home and choosing a school in Canada, families often focus on fundamental factors such as academic performance, school reputation, and language programs. However, there are also several "bonus features" that can significantly enrich your child's school experience—and are worth considering during your planning.

This guide highlights some key advantages that go beyond the basics, helping you make an even more informed choice.

1. Specialist Programs: Giving Students a Head Start

Many public schools offer unique specialty programs tailored to students' diverse interests and learning styles. Choosing a school that offers a well-matched program can provide your child with valuable early exposure and a deeper sense of engagement.

Specialized programs can include:

a. Arts-Focused Programs (e.g., visual arts, dance, drama, music)

b. STEM or Math/Science Excellence Programs

c. Leadership Academies or Gifted Education

These programs often have specific admission requirements and may require additional applications or testing.

💡 Tip: Specialist programs often require a separate application process, and some may admit students outside the standard attendance boundaries. It's crucial to check admission rules early.

2. Multilingual Learning Opportunities: Building Global Skills from Childhood

In today's increasingly globalized world, strong multilingual skills are becoming a major advantage for students' future academic and career development.

Beyond French language programs, some school boards and individual schools also offer additional language learning opportunities—such as Spanish, Mandarin, Arabic, and Latin—based on community needs. These programs create a richer linguistic environment and help broaden students' cultural horizons.

For example, the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board (OCDSB) runs an International Languages Program (ILP) for K–12 students. These small-group classes, held on weekends or after school, offer instruction in languages such as Spanish, Arabic, Mandarin, and Portuguese. Led by qualified teachers, the program focuses on building real-world communication skills, helping students strengthen heritage languages while developing broader international competencies.

💡 Tip: International language programs are typically supplementary and require separate registration. It's recommended that families check program availability in their community or through their local schools early, to best plan for their child's enrichment schedule.

3. School Culture and Extracurricular Life: The Hidden Essentials

Beyond academics, a school's overall culture and its range of extracurricular activities can have a huge impact on a student's development. Clubs, sports teams, music groups, volunteer opportunities, and leadership programs all help students grow socially, emotionally, and personally.

💡 Tip: When researching schools, try to explore their extracurricular offerings, student leadership initiatives, and overall school climate. A vibrant community environment often nurtures not only academic success but also a positive life experience.

Final Thoughts

Academic strength, strong teaching teams, and French program offerings are certainly crucial when choosing a school. But broader factors—such as special programs, multilingual opportunities, and school culture—can add significant value to a child's educational journey.

By taking a holistic view, families can select a school that not only meets academic needs but also supports the child's passion, creativity, and future growth.