Fast Forward
Fast Forward is a unique diploma granting program (OSSD) focusing on preparing students for the workplace. The program is designed to develop students’ literacy and numeracy skills in addition to their learning and employability skills necessary to be successful in a work environment. Students’ preparation for employment includes a variety of opportunities for work-related learning experiences including COOP and a Special High Skills Major option in the following sectors: Business, Sports, Hospitality, Non Profit and Transportation. Some Fast Forward students pursue post-secondary college options requiring workplace level English.
The Fast Forward Program meets the needs of a student who:
• Has struggled with literacy and numeracy for a significant period of time;
• Is academically 2-4 years out of phase;
• Has had significant accommodations or modifications to their elementary school program;
• Has an Individual Education Plan (IEP)
Students in the Fast Forward program benefit from the opportunity to:
• Earn an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD)
• Improve their reading, writing and mathematical skills and gain greater confidence as a learner
• Develop their learning skills and employability skills
• Participate in work-related learning experiences (e.g. Co-op, Career Days, Employment Fair, team-building activities , etc.)
• Through our Special High Skills Major Program (SHSM), earn certificates recognized by local employers (e.g. Customer Service, WHMIS, CPR, First Aid, etc.)
To make an application to the Fast Forward program, contact your current school’s guidance counsellor, special education resource teacher or administrator. For additional information, contact David Dirks, Head of Fast Forward 519-570-0003 X 5527.
Extended French
The Extended French Magnet Program is an excellent option for French immersion students who wish to continue to develop their French skills while not limiting their choice of courses in other subject areas. In fact, three of the seven courses they are taught in French are mandatory for all students in the regular stream. Upon completion of the package, students receive a certificate granted by the school as well as a designation on their Secondary School Diploma stating that they have complete a specialized program. the seven required courses are:
Grade 9
FEF1DI French Language Arts; CGC1DF Canadian Geography
Grade 10
FEF2DI French Language Arts; CHC2DF Canadian History;
Grade 11
FEF3UI French Language Arts; EPS3OF Presentation and Oral Skills
Grade 12
FEF4UI French Language Arts
Grand River Collegiate is proud to offer this French specialized learning environment. Students who can communicate fluently in French are developing a competitive advantage in an increasingly challenging global job market.
Strings
As a WRDSB designated String Magnet school, GRCI offers advanced string instruction on the violin, viola, cello and bass to students entering Grade 9. Admission to this program is based primarily on one of three criteria: The student has participated in a feeder school program; or the student is able to play at a RCM Conservatory grade 2 level; or the student has participated in a community string ensemble. With the exception of students with feeder school experience, applicants are required to play an audition to demonstrate competency. Prerequisite experience guarantees a similar starting position upon which to build a solid, vibrant musical adventure for students with interest and aptitude in strings instruction.
