New to Canada & Halton Region
The Halton District School Board (HDSB) welcomes new families to Canada and to the Halton region. Whether you're arriving from another country or relocating within Ontario, we’re here to support your transition into our school communities.
HDSB Welcome Centre
The HDSB Welcome Centre supports new and returning families to the Halton region with the following services:
- Student Registration
- Language and Academic Assessment
- Settlement Support
Contact Us
Main Location: Gary Allan High School
215 Ontario St. South, Milton, ON L9T 4N5
Additional Location: Makwendam Public School
565 Woodview Rd, Burlington, ON L7N 2Z9 (entrance on east side of building)
905-335-3665 ext. 3440
welcomecentre@hdsb.ca
Youth Settlement Support
In partnership with the Halton Multicultural Council, the HDSB offers the Youth Settlement Program, funded by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). This program helps newcomer families connect with schools, access community services and navigate the Canadian education system.
Services include:
- Help understanding school procedures and expectations
- Interpretation and translation
- Guidance on community services and supports
To connect with a Youth Settlement Worker:
Oriana Jones
Program Lead, K-12 Settlement Services
905-335-3663 ext. 3446
joneso@hdsb.ca
Additional Resources for Newcomers
These resources offer helpful information to support your family's transition:
- Halton Newcomer Strategy
- Settlement.Org – Reliable newcomer information, community resources, and support
- Canadian Immigrant – News, events, and advice for new Canadians
- Ontario Ministry of Education – Education system overviews and resources
Education Guides:
- The Newcomer's Guide to Elementary School in Ontario (PDF)
- The Newcomers' Guide to Secondary School in Ontario (PDF)
- English as a Second Language (ESL) and English Language Development (ELD) Programs
Let us help you make a smooth transition into your new community. We look forward to welcoming your family to the Halton District School Board!
Halton Region Community
Halton Region serves residents and businesses in the City of Burlington and Towns of Halton Hills, Milton and Oakville by providing a wide range of essential programs and services.
Community Profile
Halton is one of the fastest-growing communities in Canada and home to four distinct municipalities:
Halton is one of the fastest-growing communities in Canada and home to four distinct municipalities:
Halton combines vibrant agricultural communities and the charm of small-town life with the amenities, shopping and culinary delights of major urban centres. With Toronto to the east, Hamilton to the west and Lake Ontario to the south, the region is close to major cities, world-class educational institutions and markets in Canada and the United States.
Accessible via three Canadian airports, railways, Provincial highways, local roads and public transit, Halton offers countless opportunities to experience nature, arts, culture, heritage, leisure, sporting activities and more.
Looking for International Student Program (Fee Paying) Information?
We are now accepting applications for the 2025-2026 school year.
