Settlement Education Partnership in Toronto (SEPT)

School Support

Starting school in Canada?
We can help in making school and community connections.

Settlement Workers in School Program (SWIS)

SWIS, part of the Settlement Education Partnership in Toronto (SEPT), is a collaboration with the Toronto District School Board, Toronto Catholic District School Board, and Toronto Public Library. Catholic Crosscultural Services is one of five lead agencies in Scarborough.

Our School Settlement Workers support newcomer students and their families in adjusting to school and community life.

Programs Offered:

SWIS Community Connections Hub: A welcoming space at Stephen Leacock CI for newcomer youth and families to access support, community services, and orientation to the Canadian education system.
Support Groups: Weekly group activities for youth, parents, women, seniors, and caregivers to build social networks, enhance life skills, improve language, and learn about their communities.
Digital Storytelling, Media & Arts: A multimedia workshop for newcomer youth to share personal stories through photos, video, art, and sound, promoting self-reflection and growth.
Mental Health and Wellbeing: Weekly workshops addressing anxiety, distress, isolation, emotional regulation, family conflicts, and accessing community support services.
Summer Enrichment Program: A five-week program for children (7-12) and youth (13-18) focusing on math, science, reading, leadership, critical thinking, sports, and civic engagement.
Newcomer Orientation Week (NOW): A peer-led program that orients high school students (grades 9-12) to their school before the new year, covering daily routines, the credit system, and available supports.
Welcome and Information for Newcomers (WIN): A one-day orientation for newcomer youth (grades 7-8) before the school year starts, fostering community engagement, leadership, and mentorship throughout the year.
March Break Camp: A fun program for newcomer youth to explore leadership, communication, and social skills while participating in Canadian cultural activities.

SEPT provides the following settlement services to newcomer youth and families through local schools:

Provide supportive one-on-one settlement counseling for newcomer youth and parents, focusing on community connections tailored to their needs.
Conduct information sessions on various settlement topics, offer parent groups, youth drop-ins, volunteering opportunities, homework help, English conversation circles, and organize activities related to mental health, leadership, and skill-building.
Facilitate understanding of the Canadian education system and life in Canada, fostering student success through active engagement and parental involvement.
Collaborate with school staff to create newcomer-friendly spaces within schools.
Assist in facilitating communication between newcomers and the school community.

Starting fresh in a new country can be both exciting and challenging. Many newcomers to Canada experience this mix of emotions as they adapt to their new home. At CCS, we’re here to support you every step of the way, helping you feel at home, thrive, and contribute to Canada. Here’s a reflection from a newcomer who valued the support they received from CCS.

As a newcomer to Canada, I felt a bit lost and overwhelmed. Thanks to the NOW program, I received incredible guidance. They helped me navigate the education system, settle into my new environment, and learn so much along the way. Their kindness made me feel welcomed and supported throughout my educational journey. I'm truly grateful for the NOW program and the positive impact it had on my life.

Zohal Qazizada