First Nations languages and cultures are central to First Nations’ distinctive laws, traditions, and ways of life, and First Nations’ connections to their lands are embedded in their languages. Their languages are integral to the well-being of First Nations.

First Nations have continually promoted a focus on First Nations languages, cultures, traditions, and current realities, understanding the importance of First Nations students having a positive sense of self-identity, the need for more widespread awareness of First Nations concerns and circumstances, and the important role of education in revitalizing and transmitting First Nations languages and cultures.

First Nations Languages and Culture Program Funding Grants for First Nation Schools

With the advocacy that led to the renewal of our tripartite agreement with Canada and BC (the BC Tripartite Education Agreement) FNESC achieved new funding and policy changes to support language and culture education.

First Nations Languages and Culture Program grants are provided to all First Nation schools in BC (including ISC-approved First Nation adult secondary education centres) each year.

For more information, please contact us or visit the First Nation Schools Portal.

First Nations Language Teacher Mentor Apprentice Program

The First Nations Language Teacher Mentor Apprentice Program (FNLTMAP) is designed to increase the fluency of staff who work in First Nation schools by providing opportunities for one-on-one language practice with a language Mentor (a fluent or proficient speaker, identified by the community as an appropriate Mentor).

First Nation schools can learn more about this program and the application process on the First Nation Schools Portal.

First Nations Language Fluency Degree

In partnership with a consortium of Indigenous Adult and Higher Learning Association (IAHLA) institutes and public post-secondary institutions, FNESC and IAHLA have continued to advance a framework for a four-year Indigenous Language Fluency Degree, which has fluency in an Indigenous language as its primary learning outcome and purpose.

Coaching Support

Through the First Nations Languages and Culture Program, FNESC provides in-person and virtual coaching to all First Nation schools upon request. Coaching offers support in, but is not limited to, planning, assessment, instruction, curriculum building, classroom management, and on-the-land learning opportunities.

For more information about coaching, or to request a coach visit to your First Nation school, please contact us.