Edmonton has a huge number of language clubs and programs for new immigrants and refugees who want to improve their English skills and integrate into Canadian society. From free government programs to volunteer initiatives and private language studios, newcomers have countless opportunities to practice English in a relaxed and supportive environment. These programs not only promote language skills development, but also help establish social connections with other newcomers and local residents, which is a critical aspect of successfully adapting to a new life in Canada.
Free government programs and services for immigrants
LINC (Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada) is a federal government program funded by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) that offers free English classes to new immigrants. The LINC program is available to permanent residents, convention refugees, live-in caregivers, and protected persons. LINC offers classes at various levels, from basic to advanced, with a focus on the practical use of English in everyday situations.
Edmonton Catholic Schools LINC Program is one of the largest LINC programs in Edmonton, with 86 employees and 1,600 students per year. St. Basil's Schools offers classes in the morning, afternoon, and some evenings, while St. Francis offers a program for women only. Both locations have programs for both literacy (Foundation L to 4L) and basic classes (CLB 1–4). The schools also offer free childcare for children aged 19 months to 5 years, which is especially valuable for mothers with younger children.
Edmonton Immigrant Services Association (EISA) is one of the city's oldest and most respected organizations, helping immigrants for over 30 years. EISA offers English as an Alien Language (EAL) classes at levels 3, 4, and 5 with 6 hours of class per week. Classes include adult basic literacy, citizenship education, human rights, and legal rights, preparing students for Canadian culture and values. Registration for EISA classes costs $60 CAD for permanent residents or naturalized citizens and $100 for other immigration categories.
In addition to formal classes, EISA organizes English Conversation Circles, a series of regular sessions where adult immigrants practice English in a relaxed setting. The sessions are held weekly at the EISA office from September to June and are a great opportunity to meet other immigrants at a similar level of language learning.
The Edmonton Newcomer Centre is an organization that offers the Community English for All (CEFA) program with beginner and intermediate English as a Second Language classes at various locations throughout Edmonton. The classes are designed for both newcomers and refugees and focus on fun, a friendly atmosphere, and practical language skills. In addition to classes, the Edmonton Newcomer Centre offers Community Connectors who help participants access community resources and services.
Catholic Social Services and Partner Programs
Catholic Social Services (CSS) operates LARCC (Language Assessment, Referral, and Counselling Centre), which is the first step for many newcomers who wish to access LINC programs. LARCC offers language tests to determine the skill level of newcomers, after which students are given a LINC card with their level for listening, speaking, reading, and writing.
CSS also operates LACE (Learning and Community Enrichment Program), which offers English Conversation Circles at several Edmonton Public Library locations throughout the city. Participation in the groups is with volunteers and allows immigrants to practice speaking and connect with other newcomers in their community.
Edmonton Public Library and other programs
Edmonton Public Library offers free programs for learning English as a second language, including a series of Vocabulary Club: English Conversation Classes, which are ideal for people who are just starting to learn English. Classes include learning everyday English words and their usage with conversation practice. Beginner Conversation English Language Learning is a program for newcomers who want to practice speaking and listening in an informal group setting.
Intermediate Grammar & Conversation English Language Learning is a program for more advanced learners that focuses on grammar and conversation at a more moderate level of difficulty. EPL also offers Youth Talk, a program for young newcomers to practice communication skills and learn about Canadian society and culture.
In addition, the Edmonton Public Library offers Talking Pen Bilingual Kits with bilingual picture books and dictionaries available in Spanish, Arabic, French, Mandarin, and Punjabi. EPL also offers Road to IELTS classes for those preparing for the IELTS test for further education.
Edmonton Mennonite Centre for Newcomers and other specialized centers
The Edmonton Mennonite Centre for Newcomers (EMCN) offers the LINC (Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada) program, which is free for newcomers who have a language assessment. EMCN also offers Community English Classes at beginner and intermediate levels in both in-person and online formats, where participants practice reading, writing, listening, and speaking.
The Self-Reliance Resource Centre is a faith-based organization that offers language classes and cultural orientation for newcomers. The centre specializes in helping immigrants understand the Canadian system and develop independence and adaptation skills.
Action for Healthy Communities (AHC) has been offering English, math, and computer training programs for newcomers since 1995. AHC focuses on housing and employment, and also offers personalized support and mentoring.
Volunteer Programs and Language Exchanges
The Edmonton Newcomers Centre runs Online Group Classes and Online Mentoring, which allow newcomers to practice English online with volunteers and coaches. Mentoring includes vocabulary and conversation practice for one week after each class.
EISA's Mentoring Program connects new immigrants with mentors who have been living in Edmonton for several years. Mentors help newcomers make new friends, practice English, and learn about local opportunities and resources. The program requires 20 hours of mentoring over three months.
Tandem and Linguar are mobile apps and websites that help people find language exchange partners. On these platforms, newcomers can practice English with native speakers or other language learners for free. Language exchange is a great way to make connections and improve language skills at the same time.
CCI-LEX is an organization that actively recruits volunteers to teach English as a foreign language to newcomers. Volunteers receive pre-designed lessons, a resource library, initial orientation, and access to ESL training workshops. CCI-LEX needs volunteers to teach both in person and online, in the morning, afternoon, and evening.
Specialized Programs and Support Services
The Edmonton Newcomers Centre's Learn English Program offers Online Group Classes and Online Mentoring for people of all skill levels. The program allows newcomers to learn at their own pace by practicing English with volunteers and coaches. The center also has a Facebook Group for peer practice and additional support.
Some programs also offer specialized classes, such as Women-Only ESL Classes (e.g., St. Francis at ECSD LINC), which can be especially valuable for women who need a safe and supportive environment in which to learn.
Locations and Class Schedules
Most language clubs and programs are held at various locations throughout Edmonton, including community centers, schools, libraries, and the offices of specialized organizations. Some programs offer both in-person and online options, providing flexibility for those with limited time or mobility issues.
The Edmonton Public Library has branches throughout the city where language classes are held, making programs accessible within walking distance for most residents.
Conclusion
Edmonton offers an extraordinary number of language clubs and programs for new immigrants who want to improve their English skills and integrate into Canadian society. From free government LINC programs to volunteer language exchanges and specialized centers for newcomers, the city ensures that every newcomer will find a suitable program that matches their skill level and schedule. Most programs focus on fun learning with an emphasis on practical language skills and social integration, making learning English not only an educational experience but also an opportunity to make connections and start a new life in Canada.