The front entrance of the St. Patrick Catholic Secondary School building.

Academics

English as a Second Language (ESL)

The ESL program at St. Patrick Catholic Secondary School is designed to offer English Language Learners the skills in Reading, Writing, Speaking, and Listening to develop proficiency in Academic English.

English Language Learners are encouraged to be fully integrated in school life and to participate in co-curricular activities throughout the school year. This engagement will enable students to be socially active in a welcoming environment at our school.

ESL Courses

We are one of few schools who offer ESL courses at all levels, from Beginners to Level 5, which allows students a smooth transition into the regular English program.​

  • ESLAO (Level 1) - Beginning Communication in English

  • ​ESLBO (Level 2) - English in Daily Life​

  • ESLCO (Level 3) - English for School and Work

  • ​ESLDO (Level 4) - Study Skills for English

  • ESLEO (Level 5) - Bridge to English

Each ESL student will be placed in the appropriate ESL level while studying other secondary curriculum subjects in which they will receive support and guidance in order to be successful, graduate, and choose a suitable postsecondary pathway for their skills and interests.

International Friends' Group

One of the many opportunities offered to our newcomers at our school is the International​ Friends Group.

Under the direction of our Settlement Worker, this group usually meets once a week during lunch or after school and provides a support system for newcomers to share their experiences, and address questions and/or concerns.

Throughout the school year, the Settlement Worker also invites guest speakers to these sessions, speaks to the parents/guardians of these students, and is the main link to outside community organizations, to support students and their families with housing, employment, and community involvement.