Information for Parents and Students

The Hamilton-Wentworth District School Board is a large school board located in the province of Ontario. The Board services the communities of Hamilton, Ancaster, Dundas, Flamborough, Glanbrook and Stoney Creek.

Secondary Schools

• Grade 9 to 12
  (Full days Monday to Friday for about 6 hours per day)
  In Ontario, attendance at school is compulsory to 18 years of age.

School Year at a Glance

• September to June
• Winter Break in December/January
• Spring Break in March

The school will provide notification of Professional Activity Days and public holidays such as Thanksgiving Day, Good Friday and Victoria Day.

Assessment Services for International Students

The Assessment Centre provides services in a warm and welcoming environment to newcomer families, as well as adolescent and adult learners.

For newcomer families, the Centre also provides community links, connections to Continuing Education (including English as a Second Language programs), day school programs and support networks that facilitate their integration into Canadian society.

The goal of the Assessment Centre is to welcome the student and family and to lessen the anxiety level for those new to Canada.

Appointments may be booked by calling (905) 521-2554.

The Assessment Centre is located on the first floor of the Education Centre.

Who Needs to be Assessed?

Students in Grades 9-12

• Students who are new to Canada, entering the Ontario school system for the first time and whose first language is not English.
• Any student from a French Language school in Canada.
• All International students.
• All students who attended schools where English was not the language of instruction.
• Any student who is new to the Hamilton-Wentworth District School Board and whose first language is not English.

Upon Arrival in Canada

Upon arrival in Canada, International Students must make an appointment at the Assessment Centre, located at
100 Main Street West, 1st floor, Hamilton, Ontario.

All International Students must present the following documentation to the Assessment Centre:

• Study Permit
• Passport
• Previous School Record
• Custody Information (if applicable)
• Proof of valid Health Insurance Coverage  
• Proof of residency in Hamilton (relative or custodian)

The Assessment Centre reviews the student’s understanding of English and Mathematics. During the assessment, the teacher will work one-on-one with the student and observe some of the factors that might affect success in his/her new school.