English and French are the two official languages spoken in Canada but Durham Region is a predominantly English speaking community. Although you may have already acquired some written and verbal knowledge of English it is important to determine if that knowledge is sufficient for your chosen employment field in Canada.
The following websites can assist you with practicing your English on-line:
If you require assistance learning or improving your English skills the following services are available:
LINC: Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada
- Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada, or LINC, is a program funded by Citizenship and Immigration Canada, which offers free language training across the country for permanent residents.
- LINC facilitates the integration of immigrants into Canadian culture and society by providing basic language training and includes social, cultural and economic information.
- Anyone wishing to join a LINC class must first complete a language assessment. The LINC Assessors evaluate clients’ language and training needs and refer immigrants to the appropriate LINC, ELT, ESL, or other program providers according to the learners’ abilities, interests and needs.
- In the Durham Region, The Community Development Council Durham is the LINC office for English language assessment.
Enhanced Language Training Programs (ELT)
- ELT is an advanced sector specific language program tailored to the needs of foreign trained professionals looking to enter the Canadian workforce in the near future.
- Durham ELT assists newcomers to Canada who are internationally trained in office administration, financial, educational, or health services to develop language skills and gain experience in their field with in-class instruction and bridge to work internships or mentoring.
- It is eights weeks of in-class sessions followed by up to eight weeks of internship.
For further information, please contact:
ELT Coordinator (905-440-4488)
120 Centre Street South
Oshawa, ON L1H 4A3
www.dce.ca
English as a Second Language (ESL)
- English as a Second Language, or ESL, is a program funded by the Ontario Ministry of Citizenship and Immigration, available from the Durham Catholic District School Board and the Durham District School Board.
- The programs are for permanent residents, Canadian citizens, and convention refugees over the age of 17 years.
- Students develop skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing and have the opportunity to practice their new skills during class outings and social activities.