During Francophonie Month, we met Camille, a French student on her way to becoming a teacher in British Columbia, which is inspiring and instructive. Camille shares her experience, challenges, and advice for anyone considering a similar career path.
Immigration and Application Process:
Can you share your experience with the immigration process to Canada and applying for teaching positions in British Columbia?
My immigration journey began well before my job search. In January 2023, I arrived in British Columbia as a student, thanks to the “Dual Training – Teaching in French in British Columbia” Master’s program at the University of Tours. After obtaining a study permit and a co-op permit for the year 2023, I completed my certification internship at an intermediate school in the Vancouver area. A few weeks before the end of my internship, I was invited for a job interview to work as a teacher. In collaboration with the school district, we started the process of obtaining a “Francophone Mobility” closed work permit, and that’s how I obtained my work permit in mid-February 2024.
Did you face any challenges during the application process, and if so, how did you overcome them?
The main challenge was that my employer was going through the sponsorship process for a Francophone mobility work permit for the first time, which made the process longer than expected. With the help of Cheryl Edge from Make a Future and advice from others who had gone through these procedures before me, I was able to overcome these difficulties and obtain my work permit.
Qualification and Certifications:
What steps did you take to meet the requirements for teaching in British Columbia, such as language proficiency and educational certifications?
To meet these requirements, criteria I came to train directly in British Columbia. Having studied Literature and English in France, I then applied for the FLE/S Master’s program offered by the University of Tours and Simon Fraser University. Through my studies and participation in the Professional Development Program at SFU, I obtained my teaching certification in British Columbia.
Advice for International Educators:
Can you give advice to other international students or educators considering immigrating to Canada and pursuing a teaching career?
Starting early, building a network, and considering coming to train directly on-site are important pieces of advice. It’s also essential to be open-minded and ready to adapt to a new school and university system. I also want to draw attention to the importance of being familiar with the region before settling, thus facilitating adaptation once on-site. I myself was able to visit the province several times before wanting to settle there and start my teaching career.
Camille’s story of becoming a teacher in British Columbia as a French student reflects her commitment, determination, and willingness to achieve her professional goals. Her experience highlights the growing importance of Francophone teachers in the province, where the demand for qualified professionals in this field is constantly increasing. This highlights the opportunity that British Columbia offers to international Francophone educators who wish to contribute significantly to education in the region. If you are in a different situation, please consult our resources to find information tailored to your specific circumstances.
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