English Language Learners
The Newcomer Welcome Centre (NWC) is the VSB's hub for the support of newcomers to our province and district, including all English Language Learners. The teams and services listed below are headquartered at the NWC under the supervision of the District Principal. You can learn more about us be clicking the Newcomer Welcome Centre link above, or by selecting one of the categories below.
Newcomer Registration All registrations to the VSB begin by making an application with our VSB Apply Now page. After you finish that process, if your child was born outside of Canada, or if English is not your child's primary language, you will be prompted to make an appointment to visit the NWC for verification of your documents, assignment to school, and to book an English language assessment for your child if appropriate. More information about registration and required documents can be found by clicking the Newcomer Registration link above.
English Language Learner Support English Language Learners at the VSB are served by teachers and support staff dedicated to supporting the students’ success and inclusion in school and society. To learn more about how ELL programs benefit your child, and how you can help your ELL child at home, please download this ELL Support Brochure.
Multicultural Liaison Workers Multicultural Liaison Workers (MCLWs) are cultural and language support staff with the Vancouver School Board. MCLWs function as cultural bridges, assisting students, families and school staff by facilitating effective communication across linguistic and cultural boundaries. MCLWs support eight different home language groups. Learn more about the services offered by the MCLWs and how to access an MCLW to help you by clicking the link above and/or downloading the MCLW brochure.
Settlement Workers in Schools The Settlement Workers in Schools (SWIS) Program, funded by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), is a school-based service designed to support immigrants, refugees, and other eligible newcomers with their immediate and ongoing settlement needs after arriving in Canada. A member of our multilingual SWIS team will meet you when you visit the NWC for your registration appointment. You can learn more about their services by clicking the link above or be downloading the SWIS brochure.
SWIS Youth Services Team The SWIS youth team works with high school aged youth to ensure they have access to educational and employment opportunities. Click the link to learn more.
Resources for Families A wide array of resources to help you understand the school system in British Columbia is available here.
Events and Workshops for Newcomers Our teams frequently host events and workshops for newcomer families and those whose home language is not English. Please click to the link to find out what is currently being offered.