Our Orientation and On-Line Learning Programs Support Student Success

By Pamela Smith, Victoria International High School Programs

All of us at Victoria International High School Programs understand what a huge step it is to study in a foreign country. There’s so much to see and learn…..a whole world of new and exciting experiences awaits you. Our orientation and pre-arrival learning programs are two of the ways we support our students with making a successful transition to living and studying in Canada.

Students who come for a one-semester or full-year academic program attend a one-week orientation at our Uplands Campus, prior to starting school. They also receive access to our new Pre-Arrival Learning program once their application has been accepted.

VIHSP’s Pre-Arrival Learning program (PAL) is an on-line program that allows students and their parents to gain a good understanding of what students can expect when they arrive in Victoria. Because it’s web-based, students may go through it at a time and place that suits their schedule. In addition PAL offers 30+ hours of English language learning in a series of fun, interactive lessons. After completing PAL, students will feel more confident and better prepared for their study abroad experience.

We also provide students with a week-long orientation once they arrive in Victoria. During the orientation, we organize students into classes led by a facilitator. Students will participate in English language assessments to help us determine the most appropriate level of ESL support they require. They will also learn practical information they can apply in everyday life, such as how to succeed at school, getting settled in homestay, becoming involved in the community, banking, money, Canadian culture, and more.

In addition to classroom time, our orientation includes field trips with Canadian student “buddies”. These outings are a great way to get to know our beautiful city and may include a downtown walking tour, sports, and local attractions in and around Victoria. Students will also visit their new schools where they’ll meet their international student advisor.

Students will have lots of opportunities to ask questions during the week and to connect with staff who will support them during their stay. Our homestay coordinators, in particular, make a point of meeting with students to see how the first few days in homestay are going, and to assist and provide advice about any concerns.

The final day of orientation usually ends with a pizza party – a great wind-up to the week and a time to celebrate with our students as they begin the new school year.

Learn more about Victoria International High School Programs and the Greater Victoria School District #61:

Visit our website: www.studyinvictoria.com

Follow us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Victoria-International-High-School-Programs/174971662547531

See us on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/StudyinVictoriaSD61