Learning English

Learning English is one of the best things you can do to improve your lifestyle and employment prospects. A good knowledge of the English language will help you to communicate better and integrate into your local community.

Northwestern Ontario is a great place to learn and practice a new language. We are friendly and multicultural people, making it easier to make English mistakes without fear of embarrassment or judgment. In any of our towns you will hear a variety of accents and languages spoken.

English is not only a useful language to know but it is also easier to learn and use than most other languages. It has a simple alphabet, short words and fewer grammatical rules. Several organizations in Thunder Bay and Northwestern Ontario offer English as a Second Language (ESL) classes to help you get started:

Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada – LINC

The Thunder Bay Multicultural Association (TBMA) offers free English Language classes to Landed Immigrants and Convention Refugees, 18 years of age and older. Full-time, part-time and evening classes are available. Child care is also provided as is transportation assistance if required. The LINC Home Study Program is also available to those who cannot attend classes and the LINC School. LINC Home Study let’s you learn English in the comfort of your home using your computer or books and CDs. Contact TBMA at (807) 345-0551 for more information or to book your assessment. If you live in the region, please contact: 1 800 866-831 1144.

The Lakehead Adult Education Centre

The Lakehead Adult Education Centre offers a variety of courses for adults including high school credit courses, as well as English as a Second Language programs for newcomers to Canada. Classes are available for beginners, intermediate and advanced students whose first language is neither English nor French. Fees may apply.

Confederation College – ESL Courses

Confederation College offers several credited English as a Second Language courses to international students who have intermediate to advanced English language skills. Courses focus on academic skills (reading, writing, etc.) and on how to be a better student (listening skills, lectures, how to take notes, and more.) There is also specialized English for Aviation Mechanics (EAM) that provides ESL instruction related to the Aviation industry. Fees may apply. Course lengths vary.

Lakehead University – English as a Second Language Program

Lakehead International is offering a free, non-credited, English as a Second Language Course to students who would like to improve their English language skills. The course focuses mainly on pronunciation and oral communication. To qualify, you must be a Lakehead University student; have an appointment at Lakehead University; do not hold a visitor’s visa; and English must not be your first language. This course is typically 10 weeks long.