You may be eligible for SWSE if you: 

• Are 16 or 17 years old at the start of the program. 
• Live in Canada, are eligible to work in Canada, and have a valid Social Insurance Number (SIN).
• Are enthusiastic about gaining work experience, practising your second official language, and discovering another community. 
• Have a family that can host the youth you’re matched with. If hosting is a barrier, contact us. We may be able to help find an alternative arrangement.  

You don’t need to be fluent in French or have a specific language level to participate. SWSE is an opportunity to practise and improve your second official language through real-life experiences. 

During your exchange, you’ll use your second official language at work, with your host family, during group activities, and as you explore your new community. You’ll learn through everyday conversations while building confidence along the way.

The SWSE registration fee is $200 (To be confirmed). Many of the main costs of your exchange are covered by the program or your host family.

• Eligible round-trip transportation between your home and host communities. 
• Accommodation with your host family during the exchange. 
• Meals provided by your host family. 
• Organized group activities.

• Personal spending money. 
• Purchases and activities during your free time. 
• Other personal expenses during your exchange.  

The safety and well-being of youth, staff, host families, and community partners are top priorities. Here’s how we help keep participants safe: 

• Training staff to work with youth, follow safety procedures, and respond to mental health concerns 
• Conducting criminal record checks for staff and host families 
• Following workplace safety requirements 
• Having staff accompany youth during group travel

SWSE is also about helping youth build confidence and independence while making sure they have the guidance they need. We do this by: 

• Creating group agreements together during the first week so everyone understands what’s expected 
• Setting clear rules around curfews, respecting others, and attending activities 
• Encouraging open, judgment-free conversations between youth and local staff