SWIS workers are located in elementary and secondary schools within the Thames Valley District School Board and the London District Catholic School Board. The program supports newcomer students and their families by providing support, guidance, information and orientation about the educational system in Ontario.  With more knowledge of resources and services in the school and London communities, families gain a better awareness of opportunities in the school and community.

In addition to the school based services, SWIS facilitates the NOW program ( Newcomer Orientation Week) during August each year.   The program, run by selected Youth-trained Peer Leaders, supports newcomer students in their transition to high school in Canada.  Each year the NOW program works with 70-100 students from both school boards.  The Peer Leaders make themselves available to these students all year as friends and mentors.

A young high school student, who arrived in Canada in 2016 was struggling because of mobility issues. The SWIS worker at the high school helped the family access funding for a walker, wheelchair and physiotherapy. She also helped the mother communicate with the school so they could work together to accommodate his needs. In the summer, the young man was able to attend an Easter Seals camp.

"We are very happy that our son will be getting a wheelchair to help with his mobility. Our son has never been away from home but he is very happy that he will be going to a camp. We are so happy that you have helped us so much. Thank you."  SWIS parent