Housing & Education
Housing
There are some very important factors to consider before choosing which community to settle in. Housing prices vary from one area to another.
Finding a place to settle that offers good jobs, children’s daycare, schools and housing is a very stressful decision. Below are some links to a great resource of information.
Settling in Canada – A useful link to help newcomers decide where to settle in Canada.
Contact Community Services – A great resource to answer some of your housing questions.
Family is Community!
Education for Children and Adults
Canada offers quality education for children and adults alike. Education is a very important part of our lives as it prepares us for employment and is vital for economic and social growth. All children are required to attend school by age 6, it is the law in Ontario. No fees are charged for children to attend school.
Regardless of their status in Canada, children under 18 are entitled to go to school in Ontario. This would include non-Permanent Residents and non-Canadians. There are certain instances where a fee may be charged to attend school.
Immunization is mandatory to attend school:
Children must be immunized against certain diseases in order to attend school in Ontario. You will be required to show proof of immunization before your child can be enrolled in a school. Vaccinations for children and adults are offered free of charge.
English as a Second Language
Learning English is one of the first steps to integration into Canadian society many newcomers to Canada. English classes help students build on literacy and language skills while learning about the community and services available. Anyone wanting to study English must first undergo an English assessment. These assessments are free but you must set up an appointment first. Assessments in Bradford are done on Fridays, twice a month, and take place at the Bradford West Gwillimbury Public Library. Please call us at (905) 775-3343 and we can help you set up an assessment. If you want to set up the appointment yourself you can call 1-855-330-8655. Program eligibility for LINC or ESL programs is provided to clients at the time of assessment.
What is the Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) program?
LINC classes are funded by the Government of Canada – Immigration, Refugee & Citizenship Canada (IRCC). The objective of this program is to provide English language instruction and skills development to eligible adult immigrants to facilitate their social, cultural, economic, and political integration to Canada. These classes are offered at Bradford Immigrant & Community Services (BICS). Classes are free to people who are 18 years of age or older who are Permanent Residents and/or Convention Refugees/Protected Persons. Canadian Citizens are not eligible for LINC classes
What is English as a Second Language (ESL)?
English as a Second Language classes are available in Bradford at the Bradford Learning Centre at 157 Holland Street East. These classes are available to adults who are residents of Canada or who are applying for residency status.
English as a Second Language Courses:
The following links will provide you with local resources located in the Town of Bradford.
For courses to help improve your English language skills – click here.
If you are older than 18 and wish to obtain your high school diploma, the Bradford Learning Centre offers various credit courses to further your education.
They also offer English as a second Language – click here.
The Bradford Public Library is a great place to practice your English reading skills. The Library is located at 425 Holland Street West, Bradford ON. L3Z 0J2.
They also offer many activities to help enhance your English skills – click here.
How to Enroll your child in school:
Here is a list of Bradford schools, from junior kindergarten to grade 12- click here.
How do I enroll my child in school?
You will have to call the Simcoe County School Board and they will help get your child/children enrolled in the proper school.
Simcoe County District School Board
The Newcomer Welcome Centre
320 Bayfield Street. Barrie ON, L4M3C1
Telephone: (705) 725-8360 ext. 310
Simcoe Muskoka Catholic District School Board
46 Alliance Blvd., Barrie, ON L4M 5K3
Telephone: (705) 722-3555