December 9, 2024 (Brockville, ON) – At Brockville Collegiate Institute (BCI), the “RAMbassador Program”— one of 15 student ambassador programs across UCDSB secondary schools — has become a standout example of how student leadership and school spirit can create a welcoming environment for international students.
Launched by the UCDSB International Education Program at the end of the 2023-24 school year, the ambassador program connects international students with peers at their secondary schools. Last year, the program connected more than 300 international students on full-time, part-time, or for short-term stays, with more than 20 staff members and over 100 UCDSB student ambassadors.
Andrea Wright, a guidance counsellor and coordinator of the RAMbassador Program (a nod to the school’s ram mascot), explained how a dedicated classroom was introduced this school year, to strengthen these connections.
“We build purposeful activities, so the students have a chance to connect,” Wright explains. “They do projects together where the BCI student helps with grammar, for example, and sometimes if the visiting student is shy, they will open up.”
The classroom serves as a hub for around 30 international students to gather and discuss schoolwork and plan social activities. RAMbassadors also organize orientation sessions, cultural exchanges, and social events to make international students feel part of the BCI community.
“Whether they eat or play games together, these opportunities make forming connections less challenging,” Wright adds.
Recent events included apple picking and participating in the Brockville Santa Claus Parade, where students even created their own float. For Lisaan Nowak from Germany, these activities were brand-new experiences.
“It was great to see how Christmas is celebrated in a different country,” Nowak says. “Apple picking is something we don’t do back home either.”
For Swiss student Edgar Fauche, Halloween in Canada was an eye-opener.
“Halloween in Switzerland is not as big as here,” Fauche says. “I’m happy to experience this North American culture—carving a pumpkin is something I’d never do back home.”
BCI’s RAMbassadors also value the program’s impact on their personal growth.
“It makes me happy to see these students feel welcomed and enjoy their experience,” says Grade 10 student Kara Soucie. “Seeing their faces light up and documenting their time here is special. It’s taught me to think more openly about different cultures.”
“I like that it’s not just classroom learning,” adds fellow Grade 10 student Audrey McNish. “We’re teaching culture, and they appreciate the chance to do something fun outside of school.”
Matthew Raby, Executive Director of the Upper Canada Leger Centre for Education and Training, praised the program’s achievements.
“The Ambassador Program is a testament to the incredible potential of student leadership and collaboration,” Raby said. “BCI’s RAMbassador Program exemplifies the inclusive spirit that defines our schools.”
Last school year the UCDSB schools welcomed 346 international students for various enrollment periods, and more than 350 international students are expected to attend UCDSB schools during the 2024-25 school year, according to Raby.
“Our goals are to continue steady growth in enrollment and enhance the ways in which we support our international students, including accommodations and other related services,” Raby said. “Programs like this demonstrate how schools can foster global connections and create inclusive communities.”
For more information or inquiries about programs in your coverage area, please contact:
April Scott-Clarke
Manager of Communications
Upper Canada District School Board
[email protected]