UGDSB International Student
Program
Student Guide
2013 - 2014
Contents
Welcome to the International Student Program!! ............................................................................... 3
An important note to students and parents .......................................................................................... 4
Arrival in Canada .................................................................................................................................. 4
What to bring with you ......................................................................................................................... 4
Important dates...................................................................................................................................... 5
Homestay programs .............................................................................................................................. 6
UGDSB International Student Admissions Coordinator ................................................................... 7
Documents and Visas ........................................................................................................................... 8
Money .................................................................................................................................................... 8
Health insurance ................................................................................................................................... 9
Dental insurance ................................................................................................................................... 9
Student participation agreement ........................................................................................................ 10
School rules, procedures and expectations........................................................................................ 11
Tips for success ................................................................................................................................... 12
Key people in the school .................................................................................................................... 13
Report cards and parent teacher interviews ...................................................................................... 14
English ................................................................................................................................................. 14
Graduation requirements .................................................................................................................... 15
Activities ............................................................................................................................................. 16
Excursion activities............................................................................................................................. 16
Being successful in a host family ...................................................................................................... 17
What host families expect .................................................................................................................. 19
Telephone ............................................................................................................................................ 19
Internet................................................................................................................................................. 20
Food and table manners ...................................................................................................................... 20
Evenings and weekends...................................................................................................................... 22
Problems .............................................................................................................................................. 22
Suggestions to make your stay in Canada a great experience! ........................................................ 23
August 2013
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Welcome to the International Student Program!!
On behalf of the Upper Grand District School Board (UGDSB) and the International Student
Program, I would like to welcome you to Canada. You are beginning both an exciting, yet
daunting new chapter in your life. You have left your home country, family and friends willing
to begin this exciting opportunity.
It will take you some time to get used to Canada, our culture, our traditions and our lifestyle, but
do not panic; the staff of UGDSB International Student Program is here to assist you. Our goal is
to create and ensure a safe, welcoming and friendly environment. We believe that your
experiences here and the opportunity for learning will provide you with an amazing life
experience. In a very short time you will be amazed at what you have learned and how
comfortable you are in your new school and with your new friends and homestay family.
However, as you begin your journey with us, you will face many challenges. The Canadian
educational system may be quite different from what you have experienced in your schooling, in
your home country. It is our intent to help you to succeed and meet your educational goals. We
recognize that English may not be your first language and you will need support.
As well, you will be living in a new community with different rules and customs. At first, you
might feel like you are lost, or an outsider. It is our hope that the information in this Student
Guide will provide you with insight and help you to understand Canadian culture and the
educational system. I would encourage you to ask questions and to seek help when it is needed
from the staff of the International Student Program, your host family and your school staff.
I would encourage you to take advantage of the programs and outings organized on your behalf.
I believe that it is important for you to participate in your school’s activities, to gain an
understanding of Canadian culture and to continue to assist your English language development.
International students will benefit from their Canadian education experience, of course, but our
educational system will benefit as well. International students will increase diversity in our
schools and teach us about other countries and cultures. I know that I, and the staff of the
UGDSB International Student Program, look forward to meeting and getting to know you
Douglas Morrell
Superintendent of Education
Upper Grand District School Board
500 Victoria Road North
Guelph, Ontario
N1E 6K2
August 2013
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An important note to students and parents
Students and parents are asked to read this handbook before travel to Canada. It contains very
important information about our International Student Program including details about
preparation for arrival, homestay guidelines, student expectations, contact information, what to
bring with you and much more. It is best for students to familiarize themselves with this
information and be able to raise questions or concerns ahead of time to ensure they have the best
possible experience.
Arrival in Canada
Due to the Upper Grand District School Board’s close proximity to Toronto, it is likely that
students can get a direct flight to Pearson International Airport (YYZ) and not have to change
planes to travel from another Canadian city. Once students arrive in Toronto, they will have to
pick up their luggage and clear customs before heading out to meet with homestay
representatives, or the person they have arranged to meet them at the airport.
What to bring with you
Clothing – Dress in Canada and in our schools tends to be
relaxed and casual. Since our area has four distinct
seasons: autumn, winter, spring and summer, a wide
variety of clothing is worn. Our school year begins in the
autumn in which days are warm to cool and nights are
much cooler. Students should have items such as
pants/jeans, or shorts, short and long sleeved shirts,
sweaters sweatshirts and a rainproof jacket. Footwear can include shoes, sandals and athletic
shoes. Girls may also choose to wear skirts and dresses. Our cold weather can come on as early
as late October or early November. Appropriate winter clothing is required. A warm insulated
jacket, hat, mittens and insulated boots are recommended. Students may want to view the
website of a local mall to get an idea of clothing styles and prices in Canada and other items that
local stores sell.
School supplies – For students who are participating in the long term or the short term program,
textbooks and course related materials will be provided. Students are required to provide their
own pens, pencils, notebooks and binders. These items can be purchased at an approximate total
cost of $50 at a variety of stores in Canada. Students may bring their own computer, laptop,
tablet and/or cell phone to Canada for use at school and homestay.
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Additional items –You will need to bring your own toiletries and personal items for your rooms
such as photos of family and friends. If you wear glasses or contacts, you may wish to bring an
extra set and be sure to know your eye prescription. If you take prescription medication you will
need to bring a supply with you and the prescription information.
Important dates
Orientation: August 28 and 29, 9 a.m. at John F. Ross CVI, located at 21 Meyer Drive, Guelph,
Ontario - please note that attendance is mandatory
Semester One: (September 2013 to January 2014)
Note: TDB = To Be Determined by each school
September 2: Labour Day holiday
September 3: School begins
October TBD: Interim report cards sent home and parent-teacher interviews
October 11: Professional Activity Day (no school for students)
October 14: Thanksgiving holiday Monday
November TBD: Mid-term report card day
December 20: Professional Activity Day (no school for students)
Dec. 21 – January 5: Christmas and New Year’s Holidays
January: Grade 9 Math EQAO. The EQAO test is written during class so there is no disruption to
the school schedule.
January 23 – 29: Final Exams
Semester Two: (January 2014 to June 2014)
January 31: Semester 2 begins
February 17: Family Day holiday
March 7: Professional Activity Day (no school for students)
March TBD: Interim reports sent home and parent-teacher interviews
March 9 – 16: Spring Break holiday
March 27: EQAO Ontario Secondary School Literary Test (for grade 10 students)
April 18-21: Easter Holiday weekend
April TBD: Mid-term report card day
August 2013
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May 19: Victoria Day holiday
June: Grade 9 Math EQAO. The EQAO test is written during class so there is no disruption to
the school schedule.
June 19 – 25: Final Exams
The elementary school calendar and the secondary school calendar can also be printed.
Homestay programs
One of the homestay programs for the UGDSB is administered by
Canada Homestay International (CHI) the largest homestay company in
Canada with many years of experience and over 25,000 host families
matched with international students. While here you have an assigned
Homestay Coordinator who is always available. If they are away you can
always call the company:
Canada Homestay International: Toll Free in North America: 1-877-441-4443
The Guelph and area Homestay Coordinator can be contacted at: 519-489-7051 extension 2014,
or email ugdsb@canadahomestaynetwork.ca.
Contact information for CHI is on emergency contact card, which will be given to students at
orientation – Please carry contact information card at all times!
What the CHI Coordinators do for students
They are very willing and able to help you with issues and difficulties that may arise. They are
experienced in international education, parenting and homestay relationships. Their suggestions
may be “just the thing needed”. The Coordinators are available to help the schools, host families
and the international students. They are the first people to call if there are questions or
difficulties. They are a source of information and answers to questions and out-of-school
experiences.
If student is under 18 years old, a Coordinator is the legal custodian. As custodian, the
Coordinator is fully responsible for the student's well being while they are in Canada.
Coordinators:
email all the forms necessary for Parental Consent to Custodianship;
courier a notarized Declaration of Custodianship, upon receipt of the completed and
notarized Parental Consent to Custodianship;
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email the student’s family or agent a profile of host family selected by CHN;
email the student’s family or agent documents on Canadian culture and the keys to
successful experience in homestay;
ensure that the student is met at the airport and safely transferred to their homestay;
send report to agent/parents after the student arrival;
provide a formal orientation to prepare students to settle in smoothly with their Canadian
families and schools;
ensure that the student is accompanied to the immunization validation, academic
assessment, school registration and orientation appointments before school starts;
ensure that the student is supported as they learn to take public transit, access a health
clinic, open a bank account, and so on;
meet the student to assess their overall experience; help the student to communicate
effectively with their homestay host as required;
facilitate, if necessary, the student’s choice of courses each semester;
assess the student’s school report cards and attend academic case conferences;
to monitor progress in school and follow up on issues that are brought to our attention by
the host family;
provide 24 hours a day, 7 days a week support, in the event of an emergency.
Can-Achieve
Those students whose homestay placement was arranged through Can-Achieve, who have
questions or concerns, can contact Cecelia Liu (cecelia@uno-int.com, 1-647-898-7168) or Evan
Wu (evan@uno-int.com, 1-647-833-2212) who both speak Chinese and English. Pat Cather
(pat@uno-int.com, 1-519-821-3702) will be the Guelph and area contact person.
If you are looking for homestay or airport pickup service please send your name and school to
Guelph@uno-int.com. A representative will send you the application form within 24 hours and
follow up with you about your application. If you have any questions, feel free to call 1-888-5866829.
UGDSB International Student Admissions Coordinator
If you have questions about your stay here in Canada, call or email the UGDSB International
Student Admissions Coordinator: Ms. Nicole Patriquin. The administrative office is located at 40
Amelia Street, Orangeville, Ontario, Canada L9W 3T8. Her contact information is: by telephone
at 519-941-6191 ext. 223 or by email at nicole.patriquin@ugdsb.on.ca.
August 2013
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Documents and Visas
Your passport is very important so it should be kept in a safe place. Make two copies of all
important documents such as your flight ticket, passport, visa, study permit, medical insurance,
and so on. Give a copy to your host family for safe keeping. Also, students are responsible for
obtaining their own study permit. Once in Canada, make sure we know when your study permit
or visa will expire. It is your responsibility to ensure that you complete the renewal form. If you
need help, the administrative staff of the International Student Program can help. Students that
allow their study permit to expire may need to pay fines up to $200 and leave the country. It
takes 6 to 8 weeks to get a new study permit so remember that, if you are making summer plans
to go home. Please refer to the Canadian Immigration and Citizenship website for information on
how to apply for a study permit from outside of Canada:
www.cic.gc.ca/english/information/applications/students.asp
Money
Initially, it is important to note that you should have some Canadian cash for immediate costs.
You may need further funds in the form of traveller’s cheques which can be easily cashed at a
banking institution. Please bring an adequate amount of money for extra expenses such as meals
out of the home, movies or extra activities at school or in the community. Homestay fees do not
cover these costs. Major outings with your host family are not included in the fees so you may
need to pay for your expenses. As well, some of the cultural excursions offered by the
International Student Program will be at a cost to the student as well. Examples of some of these
excursions are listed in the Excursion Activities section of this manual.
Students should also familiarize themselves with the Canadian currency which is the dollar ($).
Denominations of $5 and higher are coloured paper bills while $2 (the Toonie), $1(the Loonie)
and lower amounts are usually only found in coin format. The Bank of Canada website provides
the current exchange rate for Canadian currency.
Theft is not common in Canada but you should always make sure to keep your valuables and
money safe. Do not lend or borrow money from friends, host family members or other students.
As well, host families should not be asking for additional funds for basic room and food items.
You should open a bank account in Canada. Many banks now have branches around the world so
you may find the same bank that you or your parents use at home. Banks are insured and very
safe, so you are not risking anything by putting your money into a bank account. It may also be
an easy way for your parents to transfer money that you can access. All banks offer a debit card
that allows you access at any time. You can also use the card safely for all sorts of purchases.
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Health insurance
Health insurance is mandatory when studying with the International Student Program as all
health related costs are the responsibility of the student. If the student does not have health
insurance through a homestay provider, it is the parents’ responsibility to ensure that their child
has adequate insurance to study in Canada. Students with their own medical insurance should
carry their information at all times and give a copy to their host family.
As well, during the orientation program, students will have to provide proof of their medical
insurance and immunization. A copy of this will be kept in their file in case of an emergency.
However if you get sick or hurt yourself tell your host family or teacher right away. Do not be
shy, they will want to help you, and can take you to the doctor if necessary. That is why you
have medical insurance. If it is an emergency dial 911 for ambulance, police or fire services.
Anytime you go to the doctor or the hospital you must take your medical card with you. You will
have to pay the doctor and then make a claim for reimbursement. Your host parents or homestay
coordinator can help you with this.
If you need medicine the doctor will give you a prescription. You can get prescriptions and other
medicines at any pharmacy, but you may have to pay for them yourself.
Dental insurance
Most medical insurance plans do not pay for you to see a dentist. A separate dental insurance
plan can be purchased. It is best if all dental work is up to date before coming here to study. If
you need to see a dentist you will have to pay for treatment yourself if you do not have dental
insurance. If you need dental treatment, it’s important to see a dentist.
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Student participation agreement
You and your parent(s) signed a participation agreement prior to arrival in Canada. It is
important that you clearly understand this agreement. Please take a few minutes to review the
agreement.
If you have questions about this agreement while in Canada, please feel free to ask your host
family, homestay coordinator or the UGDSB International Student Admissions Coordinator.
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School rules, procedures and expectations
Upper Grand District School Board and schools have rules on subjects such as attendance,
lateness, cheating and student conduct. Schools expect students to follow these rules. Schools
have disciplinary procedures in place for students who fail to do so. You must adhere to UGDSB
policy and procedures on attendance, codes of conduct, computer use, cell phones, electronic
devices, academic honesty and anti-bullying. These procedures can be found on the UGDSB
website. Schools also have created school codes of conduct and student expectations. These
procedures can be found in the school’s student handbook.
In addition, you will be expected to use English in class, be responsible to complete your school
work both in school and as homework after school, and you will be responsible to do your own
work, without plagiarizing. (Plagiarism is a word for taking or copying another person’s work
and submitting it as your own – this is a serious offence and teachers will often give you a mark
of zero.)
It is the policy of the UGDSB to support and maintain a positive school climate for all members
of the school community. A positive school climate is accepting and inclusive of all.
As part of this mandate the UGDSB will strive to eliminate all forms of bullying through
prevention and intervention strategies which foster positive learning environments, support
academic achievement and help students to reach their full potential.
The UGDSB considers the following to be unacceptable behaviour:
• homophobia
• gender-based violence
• inappropriate sexual behaviour
as well as harassment on the basis of:
• sex
• gender identity
• sexual orientation
• race
• colour
• ethnicity/culture
• citizenship
• ancestry
• origin
• religion
• creed
• family status
• socio-economic status
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• disability
• any other immutable characteristic or ground protected by the Human Rights Code of Canada
The UGDSB supports the use of positive practices including prevention and early intervention as
well as consequences for inappropriate behaviour. This includes progressive discipline, and
suspension and expulsion where necessary. However, before applying disciplinary measures, the
discriminatory and disproportionate impacts of disciplinary decisions on students protected by
the Human Rights Code shall be considered.
In Canada, everyone is protected from abuse:
No one has the right to abuse or hurt another person. The UGDSB has an established safe
school policy. Your security and safety, as with all our students and staff, is important.
If someone makes you feel uncomfortable or asks you to do something that you think is
bad or wrong - tell someone you trust (teacher, host parent, homestay coordinator, your
parents...)
In Ontario, the provincial law is no smoking or purchasing cigarettes under the age of 18, no
drinking or purchasing alcohol under the age of 19.
Tips for success
In Canada students are encouraged to ask questions and
to participate in class discussions. We do not want you to
sit quietly and try to memorize what the teacher says.
Often the relationship with the teacher may seem
informal compared to your home country. Group work is
an important part of school learning and is part of your
mark.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions if you don’t understand, especially about homework or
assignments. Teachers are often available before or after class to help you.
Be on time for classes – teachers take attendance and you will be marked late or absent. If
you are going to miss class notify the school. You may be asked to bring a note from
home when you are sick. The school monitors your attendance and it is important since
you cannot learn if you are not there.
Organize your time – you may find classes less structured and you will be responsible to
balance your own time between school, friends, activities and home.
Almost everything assigned to you will count toward your final mark. Hand in all
assignments on the day they are due. Late and missing assignments will bring your marks
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down. If you do miss an assignment or test, ask the teacher if there is another way to
make up for it.
To be successful you will need to follow the school and homestay rules. Please be aware that you
may be removed from the International Student Program for missing school too often, fighting,
being dishonest and/or not trying to do well in class. You are also not allowed to:
Drive a motor vehicle
Use/possess alcohol or illegal drugs
Have paid employment (this is illegal)
Break homestay rules and expectations
Engage in illegal activities
Students who are suspended or expelled will be removed from the International Student
Program.
Key people in the school
School staffs are eager to help international students adjust to the new learning environment.
Principal: The principal is in charge of programs
at the school and works closely with staff,
students and parents.
Vice-Principal: The vice-principal assists the
principal in running the school and looks after
discipline.
Teachers: Students have different teachers for
different subjects. You can call your teacher Mr.
Ms. or Mrs. as appropriate and the person’s
surname (e.g. Mr. Smith), rather than “teacher”.
ESL Teachers: They help students learn English
and strategies for success in their other classes.
There may be school specialists who work with
teachers and help students learn. These people
include:
Teacher-Librarians who help students access resources on the Internet and learn about
books, tapes, videos, and magazines.
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Guidance Counselors assist in planning students’ timetables and applying to university.
They can tell you about other programs in the schools and in the community and
generally to help you adjust to your new school
Office Secretaries assist in registering students, do the school’s office work and answer
phone calls.
Teaching Assistants help teachers in the classroom.
Resource Teachers help students who require additional assistance.
Custodians who keep schools clean and make sure the building is operating safely and
properly.
Social workers are available in each secondary school to provide social and emotional
support to students as needed and requested.
Report cards and parent teacher interviews
In secondary schools each semester you will receive an interim, a mid-term (half way) and final
report card. Also, you and your host family will be invited to attend parent-teacher interviews
after the interim report card to talk about your school work and progress.
English
All students will be assessed to see if they are English
Language Learners (ELL). Sometimes, even though
you may have been studying English for a few years,
you will still need a special class to help you become
better at reading, writing and speaking English.
If the counselor says that you must take an English as a
Second Language (ESL) course, look at this as a chance
to develop your skills; a chance to prepare yourself for
courses that will demand a greater knowledge of
English.
You will be informed if you need this class and the school counselor will include time for
English as a Second Language in your class schedule.
Some students come here for a semester or a full year program to concentrate on improving their
English and having a cultural experience. In this case, they may choose from a wide variety of
courses to complete their timetable. This is an opportunity to try classes that not available to you
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in your home country. If there are some subjects that you are required to take while in Canada to
meet the needs of your home country or your post-secondary requirements, be sure to let the
school counselor know.
Some students come to Canada in order to achieve the Ontario Secondary School Graduation
Diploma (known as an OSSD). In this case, you will want to achieve your very best. Your
English skills must be at a high level of proficiency before you can attempt many courses. Your
teachers don’t want you to become discouraged. All courses that you take count as credits
towards your graduation.
If you plan to graduate from high school in Ontario, then tell the counselor so she/he can begin to
plan an appropriate course of studies for you.
If you are having difficulty understanding your homework assignments or you feel you are in a
course where the level of English is too difficult for you, make an appointment with the school
guidance counselor.
If you feel that having a tutor would help you, and your parents are prepared to pay this expense,
then contact the guidance department at your school and they can help you arrange this.
Plan to spend a few hours each night during the week doing homework. Sometimes you may not
have homework in all of your subjects. You can still improve your English during this time by
watching English television or practicing your conversation skills with your host family.
Although we know that you will want to chat online in your own language with your friends, you
should try to limit the time you spend on this activity. Your English language skills will not
improve if you spend too much time communicating in your native language.
Graduation requirements
The Ontario Ministry of Education requires students to earn at least 30 credits to graduate from
high school. Each credit requires 110 hours of instruction. University or college entrance
requires a high school diploma with specific courses. The government sets out required courses,
in subjects such as English language, mathematics, science, social studies and physical
education, and a wide range of optional courses. Students choose their own optional courses
based on their own interests, abilities and career goals. Options include additional course in the
required study areas, as well as courses in the arts, technical and vocational education, and other
languages. Wide ranges of course are offered in Upper Grand District schools, although not all
courses are available at all schools.
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International students coming to Ontario part way through high school will have an assessment
done on their previous education. This will determine how many credits they will need in order
to graduate from high school in Ontario.
Students must also complete 40 hours of community involvement activities and must pass the
Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test, to successfully graduate from an Ontario high school.
Activities
To do well in school you must attend class, participate and do all your homework. In Canada, we
think that students will do better in their school subjects if they are participating in wide variety
of activities outside of class time. There are many opportunities for extracurricular activities
within each high school in the UGDSB or local communities. Examples of these school
extracurricular activities are:
Sports including hockey, soccer, basketball, volleyball, badminton, and track
Band and Choral
Clubs including science, math, students’ council, environmental and others
Theatre including acting, singing, and production crew
Fine Arts including painting, pottery and drawing
Outdoor Recreation including canoeing, skiing, and hiking
Participating in activities outside of school is a great way to make friends, get exercise, and
improve your English.
Also, ask your host parents to help you find an activity for your spare time within the city/town
in which you live. If you require transportation, to and from the activity, your host parents may
be able to provide this.
Excursion activities
The International Student Program arranges some group activities. As well, your school will
arrange some activities. Some events will be free of cost and others may require a fee to
participate. International students will be invited to attend all International Student Program
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excursions. Attendance is only required at orientation. All other activities are optional and are on
a first come, first served basis. Examples of some of the International Student Program
excursions include:
Niagara Falls Trip
Toronto Trip
Ottawa Winterlude trip
Laser tag, bowling, snowshoeing, tobogganing
Traditional Christmas dinner
Maple Syrup Festival
Wonderland Trip
Hockey game
Toronto Raptors basketball game
Being successful in a host family
Our host families play an important role in helping students learn English and understand the
Canadian culture. As an international student within the UGDSB you must live with a host
family. The following guidelines will help you be successful in your host family experience.
Be polite and courteous with all members of the host family. Talk to them about your day, and
ask about theirs. Use "please" and "thank you" often.
Treat the home and its possessions in a caring, respectful manner. Be careful to close and lock
doors and windows as requested by the family. Most students will share the bathroom with
members of the host family so clean up after you use it.
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Be sure to understand house rules about use of showers, telephones, and computers, and respect
any time limits given. Ask if you don’t know or understand rules. Ask the host parent if you
would like more blankets or need something; do not be afraid to tell them.
Come home at the agreed upon time after school. If you are going to miss a meal, tell your host
family, at least an hour before mealtime. Follow the evening curfew rules (the set time you are to
be at home), and be sure to telephone if an emergency comes up and/or you are going to be late.
Host families may practice a certain religion and you may be invited to attend; this is a personal
choice. If you want to practice your religion discuss this with your host family or Homestay
Coordinator.
If you would like to have a meal or to stay overnight at a
friend's home, be sure to ask permission from your host
family.
If your host family takes you on day trips, you are free to
enjoy them. If your host family would like to take you on an
overnight trip or if you would like to travel with a friend, be
sure to fill in the trip form available from the International
Student Admissions Coordinator, Ms. Nicole Patriquin.
We expect you to keep your room clean and tidy, and to
share in household chores such as cleaning the bathroom,
vacuuming, or mowing the lawn. Offering to help at times is
a nice thing to do.
If you are lonely, or worried, or sick, be sure to talk to your
host parents. They may be able to help you. It is a normal
feeling to be worried or sad sometimes, and parents understand those feelings.
Remember you are seen as a representative of your country. Do not use alcohol or illegal drugs,
drive motorized vehicles, or participate in activities that could be considered dangerous. If you
are not sure about an activity, check with your host family, International Student Program
Coordinator, or Homestay Coordinator.
Host parents are your family away from home. Let them know you appreciate them by giving
small gifts occasionally, and remember birthdays and special occasions. In Canada we usually
give a small gift or card. It’s important to remember these types of occasions. A gift does not
have to be expensive to be special.
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What host families expect
Homestay families expect that you become part of their family. This means you will be home for
dinner. They expect you to be involved in family activities and celebrations. They expect you to
help in the home with chores.
Homestay families expect that you will talk with the family every
day. They expect all people in the household to greet each other
and discuss the day's activities.
Homestay families expect that you want to learn about Canadian
culture and participate in new experiences.
Homestay families expect that you will be interested in learning
to speak English. They expect students will spend time sitting
and talking with the family members.
Homestay families expect you to want to be successful at school.
They expect students will go to school, and work hard at their homework.
Homestay families expect you to learn the homestay family rules and guidelines and to follow
them.
Homestay families expect you to tell them if you have a problem in the homestay. Problems
cannot be solved if they don't know there is a problem.
Telephone
Please make sure you know how to use the telephone at your homestay home. In case of
emergency you dial 911 and you will be connected to an operator who will be able to send the
police, fire department or ambulance to your location.
Your host family will allow a reasonable amount of time to make local calls on the house phone
but remember it is shared with the family and others may want to use it or be expecting calls. If
you are going to call long distance you need to purchase a phone card so that the host family is
not charged for your calls or talk to the host as some may have long distance plans. Also, if you
can, use your computer to contact home through instant messaging or Skype as this allows you to
call phones not just other computers for a very reasonable cost.
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Internet
If you are using the host family’s computer you will be given a reasonable amount of time to use
it. If you have your own computer your time will be less restricted. However, the host family will
not agree that you stay in your room or on the computer for excessive amounts of time as you
need to be talking with the family and socializing to develop your own English skills and your
relationships.
Computers should be used for schoolwork, and only minimally for chatting with friends back
home. The host family may agree if you want to put in your own faster internet or wireless
router, but you will be expected to pay for your expenses.
Food and table manners
Canada is a multicultural country where individual freedom is important. Each homestay family
will have different ideas about food and table manners. You should watch your homestay family
and listen carefully to learn. Here is what you can expect in a typical homestay:
Breakfast: It is an important meal and you should eat before going to school. Often each
member prepares their own quick light meal such as toast, juice and cereal as they all may be on
different schedules. They may want you to prepare your own. On weekends families may prepare
a hot breakfast and eat together.
Lunch: It is usually eaten at mid-day (12 noon) – often sandwiches and soup with a drink and
maybe a light dessert such as
cookies or fruit. Your host family
will provide you with food to
make a bagged lunch to take to
school. As well, most secondary
schools also have a cafeteria
where you can buy hot food or
extra items for lunch for
approximately $5. Should you
chose to buy lunch, this is your
expense.
Dinner or Supper: Usually eaten between 5 and 6 p.m. Most host families will want to sit and
eat together and it is usually the largest meal of the day. It has a meat, a starch food (potato, pasta
or rice) and vegetables or salad. Remember if you will not be home for dinner always tell your
host family ahead of time. However, this is usually the best time to talk with the family members
so try to attend all dinners.
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To show good manners DO these things:
Wash your hands before you sit down to eat.
Take off your hat before you sit down to eat.
Wait until other people start eating before you start.
Ask "please pass me the..." instead of reaching.
Wait until everyone is finished eating before you leave the table. If you need to leave,
ask to be excused.
Remove your own dishes from the table and offer to help with meal cleanup.
Try new foods - you may like them!
To show good manners, please DON’T do these things. Do not:
Slurp soup or noodles. Although this is acceptable in some cultures, it is generally
thought of as poor table manners in Canada.
Eat off your knife, or lick it.
Reach across the table for things that are not close to you. Instead, ask to have them
passed to you.
Speak with food in your mouth.
Chew food with your mouth open.
These things will happen in some families and not in others. Learn about your own family:
Some families say "grace" (a prayer) before meals.
Some families wait until everyone is seated before anyone eats.
Some families put a plate in front of everyone with the food already on, while some put
serving dishes on the table for people to help themselves.
Some families expect you to eat everything on your plate. Others don't mind if you leave
some food.
Adjusting to Canadian food and manners may be difficult.
Tell your family that you are having problems and ask them to help.
Ask for smaller portions or more food if that is the problem.
Tell them what you like and don't like.
Ask to go food shopping with them
If you can cook, cook some of your favourite food for them
Note: Let the Homestay Coordinator help out with this if your message is not clear to your host
parents. In some countries the preparation of food and clean-up is considered "women's work".
In Canada men, women, girls and boys cook, do dishes, and do housework. Your homestay
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family may expect you to help with these things whether you are a boy or girl. If you don't know
how, you should ask to be shown.
Evenings and weekends
During the school week you will be expected home early and to do your school work. Some
Canadian families have leisure activities such as swimming, bowling, movie night or other
activities that you can participate in. Some families are very active, while some prefer to stay at
home. Where possible we have tried to match you with a family that has similar interests.
However, you may want to spend time with your new friends. When you do go out with friends,
make sure that your host family knows where you will be and with whom. This information is
important for your safety. Also make sure you are back home on time (keep to your curfew),
however, if for some reason you will be late, it is your responsibility to call them to tell them
when they can expect you.
On weekends, the time to be home is usually a bit later. We suggest the curfew to be one hour
past your grade level. It is important to check with your host family to see that this meets their
expectations. Ultimately, you will need to abide by the rules of their home.
Sleepovers are not recommended, however, if you wish to have a friend stay over at your
homestay you will need their permission and they should be asked at least two days before.
Remember that you are now asking your host family to feed and take care of another person.
Same is true if you are asked to stay over at a friend’s house. The host family needs to give you
permission to do so and likely contact the other family to ensure your safety.
Problems
Communication is the most important element to ensure success! This is a team effort – the team
members include you, your parents, your agent (if you have one), the International Student
Program staff, Canada Homestay International, the school and the host family. We must all work
together and communicate to make this a positive experience for everyone.
When you have a problem, talk to the person who needs to know. So if it is about meals or
something at home, talk to your host family. If the problem is at school, talk to your teacher or
guidance counselor. If you are not sure to whom you should speak, talk to the International
Student Program Coordinator or Homestay Coordinator; they can help you work to solve the
problem. The Coordinators will help the student and family. They will:
be willing to listen and support you
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help you to learn to trust
create a plan to work together for a solution
ensure all parties live up to their end of the agreement
be able to relocate you to another host family or even school if necessary
We want this to be a great experience and our team will work together to ensure your success!
Suggestions to make your stay in Canada a great
experience!
Learn as much as you can about Canadian culture and your community.
It is normal to feel scared and worried when you are in a new culture.
Remember everyone here is willing to help – the host family, homestay
coordinator, program coordinator, teachers, guidance counselors, social workers, and peers.
Have fun – join groups, clubs, sports, or take up hobbies. Talk to people and find out what is
available in your community.
If you are feeling homesick, know that your feelings will change. It will get better. Keep in touch
with your family and friends but make an effort to meet new people and friends.
Look after your health. Eat well, sleep well and take good care of yourself. Get fresh air and
physical exercise. Getting too tired is the main reason why students don’t adjust to a new school,
new friends and new responsibilities. Some students will stay up too late, working or talking on
the computer. Try not to get into this habit. In Canada, we think that students should have 8 to 10
hours of sleep each night in order to remain healthy and alert in school.
Spend time with others. Don't stay alone. Do things with your host family, spend time with new
friends and visit with other international students.
Accept the way Canadians do things. Canadian culture is not better or worse than other cultures,
it is just different.
Remember why you came. You knew it would be different.
Don't be hard on yourself. Things will get better in time. Celebrate
your successes.
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