At the Ottawa Catholic School Board, we believe that language is more than just words—it’s a bridge to understanding, connection, and compassion. Learning a second (or third!) language strengthens students’ minds, supports academic success, and opens hearts to the rich beauty of different cultures. Through our International & Indigenous Languages Program for Elementary students, and our International Languages Secondary Credit Program, we help learners grow in confidence, empathy, and global citizenship—skills that will stay with them for life.
International & Indigenous Languages Program – Elementary
Our Elementary program brings language learning to life in fun, meaningful ways. Through storytelling, music, dance, games, and cultural celebrations, students explore new languages while building friendships and discovering the joy of diversity. Whether they’re learning Arabic, Spanish, Mandarin, or one of many other languages, students feel seen, valued, and inspired—and the best part? The program is free for all Ontario residents.
Who is this Program for?
The language classes are open to all Junior Kindergarten to Grade 8 students, regardless of school board affiliation. Many families use this opportunity to help their children enhance their home language, while others take their first steps in learning a new one.
Access the full eligibility requirements ›
Languages Offered
This school year, we are offering Akan, Amharic, Arabic, Blin, Bulgarian, Cantonese, Creole, Croatian, Dari, Dutch, Farsi, Igbo, Inuktitut, Italian, Kinyarwanda, Kirundi, Korean, Kurdish, Lingala, Mandarin (Simplified, Traditional & Non-Native Speakers Conversation Class), Polish, Portuguese, Punjabi, Romanian, Russian, Russian for Beginners/Non-Native Speakers, Shona, Slovak, Spanish, Swahili, Tigrinya, Turkish, Ukrainian, Yoruba.
When & Where
Dates: Saturdays from September 6, 2025, to June 13, 2026
Morning Classes: 9:30 am – 12:00 pm (in-person & virtual)
Afternoon Classes: 1:00 pm – 3:30 pm (virtual only, beginner level, Grades 2 – 8)
Locations: Various OCSB sites across Ottawa
Access the full list of locations and languages ›
Registration
Registration is on-going throughout the year, but students must be registered before attending.
International Languages Secondary Credit Program
Did you know students in Grades 9–12 can earn up to three high school credits by learning a new language? This exciting program helps you build a global perspective and gain valuable skills for the future—whether you’re interested in business, travel, international studies, or student exchanges. Best of all? It’s free for Ontario residents and takes place every Saturday morning from September to June.
Expand your horizons and open the door to new opportunities!
Who is this Program for?
The International Languages Secondary Credit Program is ideal for high school and adult students looking to gain language skills that support future studies, career opportunities, or personal enrichment.
Access the full eligibility requirements ›
Languages Offered
This year’s program includes ASL (American Sign Language), Arabic, Farsi, Hungarian, Igbo, Italian, Korean, Mandarin (Simplified), Polish, Punjabi, Russian, Spanish, Ukrainian, and Yoruba.
When & Where
Dates: Saturdays from September 20, 2025, to June 6, 2026
Time: 9:00 am – 12:30 pm
Format: In-person & virtual options available
Access the full list of locations and languages ›
Registration
Registration deadline is October 18, 2025.
