What is RLCP? A Complete Parent's Guide for Peel Families

By Best Brains Cooksville

If your child is in Grade 5 or Grade 8, you've probably heard parents talking about RLCP.

For many families, this is the first time they learn about specialized academic programs offered by the Peel District School Board, and naturally, many questions follow.

This guide explains what RLCP is, how the application process works, and how parents can help their children prepare.

At a Glance

In This Guide

• What is RLCP?
• Who can apply?
• Elementary RLCP
• Secondary RLCP
• Understanding the different program streams
• What does the application include?
• How competitive is RLCP?
• When should preparation begin?
• Frequently Asked Questions

What is RLCP?

Regional Learning Choices Programs (RLCP) are specialized academic programs offered by the Peel District School Board for students who want learning opportunities beyond the regular classroom.

These programs are designed for students who enjoy academic challenges and want to explore subjects in greater depth.

RLCP includes a variety of specialized program streams, each with its own focus and admission requirements. In this guide, we'll provide a high-level overview of the most common RLCP pathways to help you understand the options available.

Unlike the Gifted Program, RLCP is application-based.

Students choose whether they want to apply, and admission is competitive because the number of available spaces is limited.

Who Can Apply?

RLCP applications are available for two entry points.

Elementary RLCP

Students apply during Grade 5 for entry into Grade 6.

Programs include:

• International Baccalaureate (IB)
• International Business & Technology (IBT)
• Science & Technology (SciTech)

Secondary RLCP

Students apply during Grade 8 for entry into Grade 9.

Programs include:

• International Baccalaureate (IB)
• International Business & Technology (IBT)
• Science & Technology (SciTech)
• Advanced Placement (AP)

Available program offerings may vary by school and by year. Parents should consult the Peel District School Board website for current locations and admission details.

Understanding the Different RLCP Programs

International Baccalaureate (IB)

IB emphasizes:

• Inquiry-based learning
• Critical thinking
• Research
• Global perspectives
• Communication skills

Students complete challenging coursework while developing independence and leadership.

International Business & Technology (IBT)

IBT combines academics with practical business and technology learning.

Students explore:

• Entrepreneurship
• Innovation
• Technology
• Financial literacy
• Leadership
• Project-based learning

Science & Technology (SciTech)

SciTech is ideal for students interested in:

• Science
• Engineering
• Technology
• Innovation
• Problem-solving
• Hands-on learning

Many learning activities involve experiments, design challenges and collaborative projects.

Advanced Placement (AP)

Available at selected secondary schools, AP courses allow students to study university-level material while still in high school.

Students who successfully complete AP courses may have opportunities to earn advanced standing at some post-secondary institutions, depending on the institution's policies.

What Does the RLCP Application Include?

Application requirements may vary depending on the program and school.

Typically, students complete:

• Online application
• Report card submission
• Written responses
• Participation tasks
• Interviews (where applicable)
• Optional portfolio (for some programs)

Parents should review the current admission requirements published by the Peel District School Board each year.

How Competitive is RLCP?

RLCP admission is competitive.

Each year, many more students apply than there are available spaces.

Selection considers multiple factors, including the specific admission requirements for each program.

Because of this, students benefit from developing strong communication, writing, analytical thinking and problem-solving skills well before the application period begins.

When Should Students Prepare?

Preparation should begin months—not weeks—before applications open.

Rather than memorizing answers, students should focus on building:

• Critical thinking
• Creative writing
• Reading comprehension
• Presentation skills
• Time management
• Confidence during interviews and participation tasks

These skills not only support RLCP applications but also contribute to long-term academic success.

How Parents Can Support Their Child

Parents can help by:

• Encouraging daily reading.
• Discussing current events.
• Supporting creative writing.
• Encouraging curiosity and independent thinking.
• Practising public speaking.
• Providing opportunities for teamwork and leadership.
• Building confidence rather than focusing solely on admission.

Remember, RLCP is just one of many pathways to success.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does my child need to be gifted to apply?

No.

RLCP and the Gifted Program are different pathways.

Can students apply to more than one program?

Parents should refer to the current Peel District School Board application guidelines for program-specific rules.

Are report cards important?

Academic performance is one component of many applications, but requirements vary by program.

Is RLCP worth it?

Many students enjoy the enriched learning environment and specialized opportunities offered through RLCP. Whether it is the right fit depends on your child's interests, learning style and goals.

Can preparation improve my child's application?

Preparation helps students build communication, reasoning and confidence. However, no program can guarantee admission.

How Best Brains Cooksville Supports RLCP Applicants

Our RLCP Preparation Program helps students develop the skills commonly required during the application process.

Students build confidence in:

• Creative writing
• Reading comprehension
• Critical thinking
• Participation tasks
• Public speaking
• Presentation skills
• Problem-solving
• Time management

Our Ontario Certified Teachers provide personalized feedback in small classes, helping students strengthen both academic and communication skills.

Final Thoughts

Regional Learning Choices Programs provide students with exciting opportunities to explore their interests through enriched learning experiences.

Whether your child chooses IB, IBT, SciTech or AP, the most important preparation is developing curiosity, confidence, resilience and a genuine love of learning.

Admission to RLCP is only one milestone. The skills students build while preparing—communication, critical thinking and problem-solving—will benefit them throughout school and beyond.

Looking for Additional Support?

Whether your child is preparing for RLCP or simply looking to strengthen their academic and communication skills, Best Brains Cooksville offers Ontario-aligned enrichment programs designed to help students build confidence and succeed.

📍 Best Brains Cooksville
35 King Street East, Unit 15
Mississauga, ON L5A 4E2

📞 437-616-6716

📧 cooksville@bestbrains.com

Book a FREE Placement Assessment to learn how we can support your child's learning journey.