Children’s language and culture is the basis for how they form their understanding of the world, and the structure to which they attach all new learning.  

Essentially, a child’s language is so closely associated with personal and cultural identity, as well as with cognitive development, that the success of his or her early education depends on the language having been given sufficient recognition and exercise. 

Educational research indicates that if children feel their culture, language, heritage and roots are valued they will have the basis for positive self-esteem and the confidence to learn new things. Research also indicates that learning a second language is facilitated through a strong foundation in the first language. 

Our goal is to ensure that any curriculum we produce is appropriate to the unique needs, cultures, languages and learning styles of the students of the Northwest Territories. 

Culture-based schooling occurs when: 

• The culture(s) of the community is/are reflected in all aspects of the school. Culture, in this context, links respect for the past, understanding of and involvement in the present, and visions and aspirations for the future.
• Culture encompasses the languages, values, beliefs, lifestyles and issues that are integral to the community.
• The community school seeks the guidance of Elders and other key people in the children's lives, and actively incorporates their visions and their knowledge into all school programs.

There is meaningful and ongoing school/community interaction when: 

• The school is welcoming and inviting to community members;
• The school reflects and uses the language(s) of the community;
• The school participates in community events;
• Learning occurs in community settings as well as in school.

French Languages and Cultures

Because Canada’s two official languages are French and English, and because French is one of the many official languages of the Northwest Territories, instruction in French as a second language and/or French immersion is taking place. 

Under the Canada charter of rights and freedoms, section 23, francophone students have a right to an education in French. We therefore support programming in French as a first language. 

At headquarters, program development, resource coordination, teacher in-service and direction are provided for the Divisional Education councils/Divisional Education Authorities that offer French programs.

Aboriginal Languages and Cultures

Early Childhood and School Services provides support to Divisional Education Councils/Divisional Education Authorities in revitalizing, enhancing and maintaining Aboriginal Languages in the schools. Aboriginal Languages are official languages in the Northwest Territories. 

In response to the Special Committee on Education 91982), Teaching and Learning Centers 9TLCs) were established to develop materials for Aboriginal Languages. The Department, Boards and TLCs work collaboratively on supporting and promoting culture based education to: 

• Develop school programs for students;
• Develop resources that support culture based education;
• Provide support for the implementation of Dene Kede and Inuuatigiit, which are curriculum form the Dene and Inuit perspectives;
• Enhance Aboriginal language development in students;
• Work with language communities in supporting Aboriginal languages;
• Meet the educational needs of Aboriginal students

For more Information:

• WNCP Aboriginal Language and Culture Framework