Newcomer Orientation Week (NOW) – Various locations across GTA
| What is it? | An orientation program for newcomer students who are entering high school in Canada for the first time. |
| Area of focus | Reception and Early Orientation |
| Agencies/ Providers |
Settlement Workers in Schools (SWIS) program providers: CultureLink (south Etobicoke, downtown West) North York Community House (north Etobicoke, North York West) TNO-The Neighborhood Organization (downtown East, East York) Centre for Immigrant & Community Services (North York) |
| Description |
Settlement Workers in Schools coordinate the NOW program. It is an annual peer-run orientation week for newcomer students who are starting secondary school (high school) in Canada for the first time. Activities for students take place over four days during the week leading up to the first day of school to help them prepare for entry and integration. Topics include the curriculum, rules and school procedures, graduation requirements, ESL, guidance counselors, timetables, extra-curricular activities and using their locker. |
| Communities Served |
Various locations in Toronto Open to all newcomer high school students. |
| Languages Served | Program is offered in English |
| Website |
www.culturelink.ca/services/settlement-worker-in-schools/now-program/ www.cicscanada.com/en/content/111/sept-settlement-and-education-partnerships-in-toronto-services |
| Contact Information |
CultureLink: 416-588-6288 North York Community House: 416-784-0920 TNO-The Neighborhood Organization: 416-421-3054 Centre for Immigrant & Community Services: 416-292-7510 |
| Client Outreach and Support Tips | Frontline workers can contact one of the three agencies that coordinate the NOW orientation to learn more about program dates and locations and eligibility. |