Searching for English As A Second Language
Located near Georgetown
Dial 2-1-1. Our helpline is answered by real people 24/7 and service is available in 150+ languages.
Services altered in response to COVID-19 (Coronavirus)
Learners have a choice between:
- attending classes in-person from any of our four locations in Halton, or
- online using Google Classroom
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Programs provide language training in English (ESL) and French (FSL) for those newcomers to Canada whose first language is neither English nor French
- programs use the Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) curricular standards
- all instructors are OCELT-certified
English as a Second Language (LINC/ESL)
- provides learners with the opportunity to improve their English language proficiency according to their individual learning goals and priorities, in a group setting
- curriculum is based on the Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) standards
French as a Second Language (FSL)
- offers learners opportunities to communicate in French in a variety of travel, leisure and job-related contexts
- using the NCLC curriculum standards, learners will expand their vocabulary and grammar in a variety of themes related to their daily lives with the help of dedicated & professional FSL instructors
Employment Language Training (SLT)
- offers learners opportunities to acquire specific language & communication skills to succeed in a variety of employment sectors
- using CLB curriculum standards, learners will focus on vocabulary and essential skills needed for the Canadian workplace
* content in 12 different work sectors are vetted by Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) and taught by certified language teachers
Visit Website
COVID-19: SERVICE NOTICE
Language training for internationally experienced professionals who have prior training or experience in the accounting, office administration, customer service, information technology, health care or teaching sectors
- focus on sector-specific terminology, workplace communication, job preparation workshops such as resume or interview preparation, job search support
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Settlement Services
assessment and action planning, information and referral, supportive counselling, community outreach, education and workshops
- support with finding housing, accessing child care, health care and other community and social services
- help completing government forms and applications, including citizenship applications
- seasonal income tax clinic
- connection with community and volunteer opportunities
- monthly Service Canada clinics to assist with OAS, GIS, CPP, CPP disability and survival benefits
- weekly English conversation circle
- participates in LINC (Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada) in English, upon assessment by Achēv -- (see separate entry), day and evening classes available in various locations
- workshops covering job search preparation and strategies, labour market information, workplace culture, resume, cover letter and interview preparation, career information and networking opportunities
Women Support Services -- confidential counselling services for newcomer women and their children who have, or are, experiencing domestic abuse
- individual or group sessions
- short-term, goal focused counselling including the development of transition and safety strategies and information on rights and options
- crisis and support counselling to assist individuals seeking immediate assistance
- linking women to appropriate services in the community that address legal, housing, financial and long term counselling needs
- support and tools to manage the challenges of stress, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, parenting, family conflict, trauma and other life transitions through individual counselling and educational workshops
- activities to encourage and reinforce family language learning
Visit Website
Location is open for business face-to-face/virtually
* LINC/ESL/FSL/CELT/E-Learning programs available online
* contact for details
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A continuing education service of the Halton Catholic District School Board (HCDSB) which offers Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC), English as a Second Language (ESL) from levels 1 to 10 and French as a Second Language (FSL) .
Programs designed for:
* Adult immigrants wanting to improve their ability to read, write, speak and understand English and/or French
* Exam preparation for IELTS (required for university or college entrance in Ontario)
* Adult immigrants wanting to improve their workplace skills
* Classes are free and are offered at Oakville, Burlington and Milton locations
Classes:
* Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) 1 to 10
* French as a Second Language (FSL) (Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced)
* Listening, Speaking, Reading, Writing
* Literacy
* Pronunciation
* Business English
* Canadian Employment Language Training (CELT) courses
* Computers for the Workplace
* IELTS / Academic English Test Preparation
Canadian Citizenship Test Preparation
* Focus on English comprehension and language skills specific to the Canadian Citizenship test
* Learn about Canadian geography, history, political system, and the cultural diversity of Canada
* Five-week course, scheduled multiple times throughout the year (call for details of course dates)
Summer Literacy and Math Programs Grades 6, 7 and 8:
* Mathematics Camp, Numeracy through Robotics Camp, Literacy Through the Arts Camp
* materials fee for Robotics
Secondary Summer School Grades 9-12:
* courses for new and make-up credits
* registration forms available from your school's Student Services Office or website
Summer Co-operative Education:
* opportunity for Grade 11, 12 or adult students to earn secondary school credits and gain employment experience
* placement must be related to a course within your high school curriculum at Grade 10-12 level
International Languages, Grades JK-8:
* an opportunity for elementary students to experience the culture, traditions and language of another country
* no previous knowledge of language is necessary
* consult website for languages
ADULT LINC/ESL/FSL Programs:
* Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada - LINC
* English as a Second Language - ESL
* French as a Second Language - FSL
Refer to Thomas Merton Centre website for contacts, locations, days and times for each of the programs.
Milton: 2800 Highpoint Drive, 905-693-6676
Oakville: 255 Morden Road, 905-849-7555
Burlington: 460 Brant Street, 905-632-5858
Visit Website
Language training for internationally experienced professionals who have prior training or experience in the accounting, office administration, customer service, information technology, health care or teaching sectors
- focus on sector-specific terminology, workplace communication, job preparation workshops such as resume or interview preparation, job search support
WHAT ARE ESL, FSL and LINC?
All provide free training in English as a Second Language, French as a Second Language or Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada
* ESL and FSL are funded by the Government of Ontario (for Canadian citizens, refugee claimants and live-in caregivers with a work permit)
* LINC is funded by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (for Convention Refugees and holders of a Permanent Resident Card)
CLASSES IN HALTON:
Centre for Skills Development: (classes in Burlington, Milton and Oakville)
* offers LINC (Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada) classes
* for more information see full listings here
Halton Catholic District School Board, Thomas Merton Centre for Adult and Continuing Education: (classes in Burlington, Milton and Oakville)
* offers ESL (English as a Second Language), FSL (French as a Second Language) and LINC (Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada) classes
* for more information see full listing here
Halton District School Board, Gary Allan Learning Centres: (classes in Burlington, Milton and Oakville)
* offers ESL (English as a Second Language), FSL (French as a Second Language) and LINC (Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada) classes
* for more information see full listing here
HMC Connections (formerly Halton Multicultural Council): (classes held in Oakville)
* offers LINC (Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada) classes
* for more information see full listing here
DRIVER'S LICENCE:
A newcomer to Ontario can use a valid licence from another province, state or country for 60 days * after 60 days, a newcomer must switch to an Ontario driver's licence
* for more information on driver's licences for newcomers, see Ministry of Transportation website here
* to apply for an Ontario driver's licence, go to a Drivetest Centre (for locations, see full listings here)
HEALTH INSURANCE:
Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) provides publicly-funded health care for residents of Ontario
* for more information, see separate listing here
* to apply for OHIP, go to a ServiceOntario Service Counter (for locations, see full listings here)
Interim Federal Health Program provides limited, temporary coverage of health-care benefits for specific groups of people in Canada who do not have provincial, territorial, or private health-care coverage
* for more information, see Government of Canada website here
IMMIGRATION AND CITIZENSHIP:
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada facilitates the arrival of immigrants, provides protection to refugees, and offers programming to help newcomers settle in Canada
* also grants citizenship and issues travel documents (such as passports) to Canadians
* for more information, see Government of Canada website here
Discover Canada: The Rights and Responsibilities of Citizenship test is used by newcomers to study for the citizenship test
* the publication is available here to read online, listen to, or download
* a free print copy can be ordered online or by calling 1-888-567-7183
* also available to borrow at some library locations
INFORMATION AND REFERRAL FOR NEWCOMERS
For Community Information Centres throughout Halton that maintain information about the full range of human services and which function as the primary source of information about and linkage to human service providers in the community, see here
* for help in languages other than English, dial 2-1-1 to reach 211 Ontario, which uses data from the Halton Community Services Directory and has live translation services in more than 150 languages
Halton Newcomer Portal www.welcometohalton.ca
Settlement.org website
INTERPRETATION AND TRANSLATION:
For a list of organizations that may provide this service, see here
* may be a fee for document translation
LANGUAGE INSTRUCTION - ESL, FSL AND LINC:
Programs that offer opportunities to learn listening, speaking, reading and writing skills with an emphasis on developing the level of communication competence that is essential for adults who are living in a setting in which English or French is the primary language
* for more information, see separate listing here
NEWCOMER SETTLEMENT SERVICES:
Free services for newcomers to Canada are funded by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada to provide advice and help on:
* looking for a job * getting a language assessment * registering for language classes * finding a place to live * signing children up for school * learning about community services
Available in Burlington, Halton Hills, Oakville, Milton and surrounding areas
- Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC)
- LINC Home Study
- English as a Second Language (ESL)
- French as a Second Language (FSL)
- Enhanced Language Training (ELT)
- Occupation-Specific Language Training (OSLT)
- Specialized Language Training (SLT)
- needs assessment
- referral to other agencies and government services
- help filling in government forms and applications
- Commissioner of Oaths, document translation and interpretation with service providers
- crisis support counselling
- Youth Achieving Employment Project (YAE) research project to develop an intervention for recent postsecondary graduates struggling to find employment
- Mississauga Cycles cycling mentorship and do-it-yourself Bike Hub
- New Horizons for Seniors Program (NHSP) where seniors help seniors learn computer based social networking skills, digital photography, event management, report writing and also a social and physical exercise club
Enhanced Language Training (ELT) -- sector specific language training with job search workshops and a co-op placement
English Conversation Circles (ECC), and ESL Home Based Business Language Training
Community Connections Mentorship Program (formerly HOST Program)
- group activities for newly arrived immigrants and refugees of all ages to help orient them to their new community and establish social and professional networks
- trained and experienced volunteer mentors assist, with focus on citizenship and civic engagement or skills and career development
- digital Literacy Training
- free seasonal income tax clinic
- mobile dental clinic
- Orientation to Ontario (O2O) webinars
programs:
- Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC)
- LINC Home Study
- English as a Second Language (ESL)
- French as a Second Language (FSL) programs
- Enhanced Language Training (ELT)
- Occupation-Specific Language Training (OSLT)
- Specialized Language Training (SLT)
Visit Website
Participates in LINC (Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada) in English, upon assessment by achev -- see separate entry
Services altered in response to COVID-19 (Coronavirus)
Learners have a choice between:
- attending classes in-person from any of our four locations in Halton, or
- online using Google Classroom
-----------------------------------------------------
Programs provide language training in English (ESL) and French (FSL) for those newcomers to Canada whose first language is neither English nor French
- programs use the Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) curricular standards
- all instructors are OCELT-certified
English as a Second Language (LINC/ESL)
- provides learners with the opportunity to improve their English language proficiency according to their individual learning goals and priorities, in a group setting
- curriculum is based on the Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) standards
French as a Second Language (FSL)
- offers learners opportunities to communicate in French in a variety of travel, leisure and job-related contexts
- using the NCLC curriculum standards, learners will expand their vocabulary and grammar in a variety of themes related to their daily lives with the help of dedicated & professional FSL instructors
Employment Language Training (SLT)
- offers learners opportunities to acquire specific language & communication skills to succeed in a variety of employment sectors
- using CLB curriculum standards, learners will focus on vocabulary and essential skills needed for the Canadian workplace
* content in 12 different work sectors are vetted by Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) and taught by certified language teachers
905-333-3499 ext 201
Visit Website
* English Classes
* Enhanced Language Training
* Settlement Assistance
* Community Connections Programs
* free Commissioner of Oaths services available - call for an appointment
Visit Website
Services and learning opportunities for newcomers to facilitate their settlement and integration into Canada
Participates in LINC (Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada) in English and French, upon assessment by Achēv -- see separate entry; childminding may be available for attendees
Settlement and Integration Services
- orientation, information
- translation and interpretation
- job board, job placement; resume preparation and assistance; interview and job search techniques
- counselling; support for children exposed to family violence
- information and referral
- violence prevention education
- cultural and linguistic support; peer support
- guest speakers on topics of interest
- recreational and social activities
Visit Website
Participates in LINC (Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada) in English, upon assessment by achev -- see separate entry
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Academic program
- Kindergarten to grade 12
- Day, night and credit classes
- After school programs, child care
- Adult education
- Alternate Schools program
- English as a Second Language (ESL), literacy and heritage language classes
- French immersion
- International Baccalaureate
- Dual Credit
- Specialist High Skills Major program
- Ontario Youth Apprenticeship program (OYAP)
- Online learning
- Special education
- English as a Second Language (ESL)
- Specialized Language Training (STL)
- participates in LINC (Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada) in English, upon assessment by achev -- see separate entry
- Essential Skills Upgrading (Literacy and Basic Skills, LBS)
We Welcome the World -- orientation and assessment centres for elementary and secondary students new to Ontario or Canada, call 905-366-8791 to book an appointment
Participates in LINC (Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada) in English, upon assessment by Achēv -- see separate entry; childminding and transportation assistance may be available for eligible attendees
Settlement and Integration Services
- orientation, information
- translation and interpretation
- job board, job placement; resume preparation and assistance; interview and job search techniques
- counselling and support for women exposed to family violence
- information and referral
- violence prevention education
Visit Website
- LINC classes offered online and in-person
- all services provided in-person
- all workshops offered online
Participates in LINC (Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada) in English, upon assessment by Achēv, Language Assessment Centre (LAC) -- (see separate entry), childminding available, day and evening classes available in various locations
Family Literacy Program -- language and age appropriate family reading and listening resources through a lending library
- activities to encourage and reinforce family language learning with a certified Family Literacy Worker
- Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC)
- LINC Home Study
- English as a Second Language (ESL)
- French as a Second Language (FSL) programs
- Enhanced Language Training (ELT)
- Occupation-Specific Language Training (OSLT)
- Specialized Language Training (SLT)
- hearing aid clinics open by appointment only
- core services offered virtually
- continuing to provide emergency support services - Emergency Interpreting Services 1-866-518-0000, TTY 1-877-215-9530, urgent@chs.ca, SMS/Text 416-712-6637 (charges may apply)
- Deaf-Blind Intervening Services1-866-518-0000, TTY 1-877-215-9530, Allan Wareham awareham@chs.ca
Multiservice agency for adults who are deaf, deafened, or hard of hearing
- audiology and speech-language pathology
- communication devices
- hearing aid services and hearing tests
- support for coping with hearing loss
- American Sign Language (ASL) classes for individuals and businesses
Emergency Interpreter Services -- sign language interpreters for health or mental health emergencies, Mon-Sun 24 hours
Connect Counselling Services -- for mental health issues, addiction, relationship problems, domestic violence or other serious challenges
Educational Support Services -- note takers, sign language interpreters and assistive devices for part time postsecondary students
Settlement Program for Newcomers
- needs assessment and referrals
- translation (English and American Sign Language)
- form filling
- problem solving
- information on technical devices, housing, transportation, health, employment, education, legal system, settlement issues, local community
Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) -- basic communication skills, reading and writing in English, adapting to life in Canada; instruction is in American Sign Language (ASL)
Information and referral to community services
Settlement information for immigrants and refugees (including GARs)
- job search and housing help; information about health and education system
- in-home settlement visits available
- participates in LINC (Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada) in English, upon assessment by Achēv -- see separate entry, childminding may be available for attendees with children 2 to 6 years, bus fare for eligible attendees
- computer/Zoom classes: Zoom classes open to all who want to learn video conferencing via the Zoom app; class outside LINC/ESL class time
Seniors programs including information and referral, social activities -- membership, help applying for benefits
Family abuse, mental health and rights information
Community Volunteer Income Tax program for low income families
Help for low-income families and seniors
- applying for Ontario Works in Peel or for Peel Access to Housing
- assistance with applications for OESP (Ontario Electricity Support Program)
- help to apply for COVID-19 support benefits
Commissioner for taking affidavits
Visit Website
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Assists newcomers to adapt to life in Canada
Settlement Services
- orientation and cultural transition counselling services
- information and referral
- translation and interpretation
- on education, immigration, housing, transportation, children's benefit, taxation, employment, health care system, citizenship, senior's benefits, recreation
- participates in LINC (Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada) in English, upon assessment by Achēv -- see separate entry
Community Connections -- promotes interaction between newcomers and Canadians through cultural and career mentoring, networking, and other activities such as conversation circles, mentoring, youth leadership training, groups for seniors and women, cultural activities and celebrations
Visit Website
- orientation and information workshops
- translation and interpretation services
- housing
- referrals regarding government services, including social assistance
- assistance in filing forms for social insurance numbers, driver's licensing, child tax benefit
- referral assistance in accessing health services and related referrals
- assistance in completing Citizenship and Immigration forms, sponsorship applications
- referral to lawyers, legal aid, doctors
- basic language skills in English upon assessment by Achēv -- see separate entry
- offers morning and evening classes
- bus fare for eligible attendees
- employment sector specific information sessions
- referral to Para-professional counseling services to individuals, families and youth
- referral to Youth at risk para-professional counseling
- English language classes referrals
- accessing education, whether grade schools or higher education
- supply chain management
- Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC)
- LINC Home Study
- English as a Second Language (ESL)
- French as a Second Language (FSL) programs
- Enhanced Language Training (ELT)
- Occupation-Specific Language Training (OSLT)
- Specialized Language Training (SLT)