Learning or Improving your English

Peterborough has programs, classes, and fun activities that will help you learn or improve your English. You can find a program that meets your needs – regardless of your language level, immigration status, and schedule.

Language Instruction for New Canadians (LINC)

Fleming College offers a free adult ESL program called Language Instruction for New Canadians (LINC). It is open to permanent residents, live-in caregivers and convention refugees. Home study is available if you cannot get to the classes. Contact the New Canadians Centre for a free LINC language assessment. After this test you will be registered in the class that is right for you.

English as a Second Language (ESL)

English as a Second Language (ESL) is open to naturalized Canadian citizens and refugee claimants. Please contact the New Canadians Centre to register.

Trent University offers ESL classes for international students. These courses cost money.

More advanced, general and business English classes are also offered by Fleming College for a fee, through the Continuing Education department. These classes may be helpful for those who want to pursue further education or training.

Occupation Specific Language Training

Other variations of ESL are enhanced language training (ELT) and occupation-specific language training (OSLT). ELT and OSLT programs are intended to provide language training specialized for your industry. ELT is most useful for you if you are a trained professional or trained tradesperson. OSLT is an advanced level of training, and is available within driving distance of Peterborough. Contact the New Canadians Centre, or use the Language Class Wizard to find programs outside Peterborough.

The English Conversation Circle

The English Conversation Circle is a weekly English class at the New Canadians Centre. The program is free and is open to all newcomers. It is led by trained volunteers. No registration is necessary.

The New Canadians Centre also offers a variety of English language workshops throughout the year. Past workshops include Slangs & Idioms, Pronunciation and Business English.

ITCH Conversation Circle

The ITCH is another free English conversation circle run by Trent Valley International Coffee House. It is free and open to all newcomers.

ITCH is held at the Whistle Stop Café at 141 Charlotte St. Those who are interested in attending should register by emailing ITCH.Peterborough@hotmail.com.

Host Program

The Host Program at the New Canadians Centre can match you with a friend from the Peterborough community. You can meet with your match to learn more about Peterborough and Canadian culture. This is also a great way to share your culture, practice English, and make friends.

One World School

One World School trains TEFL instructors. As practice for their students, One World hosts a Saturday morning English language workshop for the general public. Learners have fun exploring an infinite variety of discussion topics, games, films, stories etc. There is no set fee, but they ask for small donations.

Toastmasters

Toastmasters is a public speaking improvement organization. It gives you the opportunity to practice your English and public speaking skills at the same time. You will need advanced English skills.

Online Resources

There are a number of online tools and/or websites that will help you with your language skills. 

• The Language Class Wizard – a tool for finding adult non-credit language training programs. 
• ESL Corner - Learn English Online - Settlement.Org’s clear language tools for vocabulary, glossary and language exercises. 
• Specialized language training in Ontario – occupation-specific language training in 15 school boards across Ontario. More resources are available at Colleges Ontario. 
• Learn English or French – an series of questions that will help you find the adult language training options that will meet your needs.