Apprenticeship

Note: This chart offers some common pathways to the goal, but is not exhaustive. Other pathways may be possible.

English as a Second Language (ESL) - (Non-credit)

Program Description:
English as a Second Language (ESL) non-credit programming is available to adults needing English language training ranging from ESL Literacy to advanced levels. Classes are held during the day, at night, and on weekends. Full-time and part-time classes are offered.

Focus: Most classes cover the four language skills (speaking, listening, reading and writing). ESL classes range in level from ESL Literacy to CLB 8. There are also classes for TOEFL, IELTS and TWE preparation, English for Business/ Computer Skills, Bilingual ESL, and Citizenship Preparation. Some school boards offer ESL for sewing; ESL for women only; ESL for seniors, and ESL for special needs individuals.

Eligibility:
To be eligible, an adult's first language is neither English nor French, and he/she is:

Delivering Agencies:
School boards

TDSB – When visiting the site, click on the Adult Learning tab in the sidebar to find Adult English as a Second Language.
TCDSB – When visiting the site, search for Adult Education under the Programs and Services tab.
YCDSB
YRDSB – Search for English as a Second Language classes under the Continuing Education program.

Check with each school board for more details on the variety of ESL classes offered within their particular school board.

Cost: FREE (funded by Ontario's Ministry of Citizenship and Immigration). There may be a small charge for materials/consumables for specialized classes (e.g. TOEFL prep, etc.)

Online / Distance Education (ILC):
Delivered by: Independent Learning Centre (online/distance education) with the assistance of a volunteer tutor.

Online students must:

Cost: There is a non-refundable fee of $40 for each online course. This administration fee covers the loan of course and supplementary materials, evaluation by certified teachers, and a final test.

Online non-credit ESL courses description:

Role of the Volunteer Tutor:
A volunteer tutor can be anyone interested in helping a student learn to speak English and to read and write it.

The volunteer tutor is expected to: