Settlement Workers in Schools (SWIS)

The Multicultural Association of Fredericton Inc. (MCAF) program offers settlement services to newcomer students and their families in the Fredericton and surrounding area. In partnership with local schools, school districts and community partners, Settlement Workers in Schools (SWIS) support students to learn about and to integrate into their new school and community.

To access SWIS, contact us at the link below:

MCAF settlement staff ensure newcomer students and parents are aware of their right to choose the francophone or anglophone education systems in New Brunswick.

Goals of the SWIS Program

  • Provide supports to newcomers and facilitate their successful settlement, integration and participation in local schools and community
  • Provide culturally sensitive and inclusive services to newcomer students, their families, school staff and community partners
  • Support on-going development and maintenance of English/French language skills and promote Fredericton’s growth through immigration
  • Collaborate with community partners to promote diversity and inclusion in schools and in the community

Facilitate the successful settlement and integration of newcomer students

  • Support newcomer students with school registration process
  • School tours and orientation with students and families
  • Provide an overview of the school and community extra-curricular programs
  • Conduct needs assessments for each student and family

 

Provide ongoing support including:

  • Collaborate with school staff and community partners to ensure that the needs of newcomer students and families are identified, met and supported
  • Follow up with students regularly in their new school to support their settlement and integration process
  • Facilitate information sessions for students and parents in English, French or in newcomers’ first languages
  • Facilitate enrollment and participation of newcomer children and youth in:
    • Tutoring and homework clubs
    • MCAF Summer Programs

Adult Settlement Programs

SWIS staff work closely with MCAF settlement staff serving adult newcomers. Using a case management model, settlement staff provide support and services to newcomer individuals and families settling and integrating in the community.

SWIS connects newcomer families with MCAF settlement programs such as:

  • Language classes in both of New Brunswick’s official languages
  • Childcare
  • Cultural Brokers
  • Support groups (women, men, youth, parenting etc.)
  • Employment and training services
  • Training and workshops

Resources