When are students most vulnerable after arriving in Canada, and how can schools and custodians help?

British Columbia's international-student health and wellbeing guidance notes that acculturation stress is often strongest in the first weeks after arrival, not only later in the school year. Effective support begins before travel: make pre-arrival contact, create connections through orientation and ensure the student has at least two trusted adults at school or in the homestay setting. Ask the school and custodian about their orientation and early follow-up process rather than assuming support is unnecessary once the student appears settled.

What to verify

• Follow up before arrival, during the first two weeks, after the first reporting period and after long school breaks.
• Persistent insomnia, absences, a sharp grade decline, isolation, unusual spending or refusal to communicate are signs that need escalation.
• Homestay providers, custodians, teachers and school counsellors can address ordinary adjustment concerns; use local emergency services for immediate safety issues.
• Keep dated records of incidents, communications and school responses when dealing with bullying or health concerns.

Planning advice

Agree on a clear help-seeking order before travel and identify at least two trusted adults in Canada. The priority is early recognition and continued follow-up.