More Ways to Improve Your English

Even if you cannot attend a government funded program, there are still ways you can work on improving your English.

NCC’s English Conversation Classes

Join our weekly English conversation circles – a great way to learn new expressions and make new friends.  Trained leaders will help you to learn new words, and you will practice speaking with other newcomers. The classes are free and open to everyone. No registration is necessary.  Come any time!  Check the monthly calendar for up to date information.

Tutoring (Free)

Tutoring is when you meet one-on-one with a volunteer who will help you learn English.   The New Canadians Centre can help find you an English tutor to meet with you once or twice a week If you are interested, please speak to a settlement counsellor at the New Canadians Centre.   Other organizations that provide some tutoring services include Trent Valley Literacy Association and Frontier College.

Other Workshops and Programs (Free)

The New Canadians Centre offers a variety of English language workshops throughout the year.  To find out what programs are currently offered, check our blog and calendar.   We also advertise ESL classes held by other agencies (when offered) through our blog.

The ITCH (Free)

The ITCH is an English conversation circle run by Trent Valley International Coffee House.  It is directed at international students but open to anyone interested in learning English, at any level, and of any immigration status.  For current information on dates and times, and to register, email  ITCH.Peterborough@hotmail.com.

Language Training Software from Peterborough Public Library (Free)

Learn English with Byki (Before You Know It) Online, a rapid language learning system for beginners.  Free to Peterborough Public Library cardholders.  You must create a user id and password.  Once you have this account, you can access it from home or any other location.  To find out how to register, speak to a librarian or settlement counsellor.

Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) Online Self Assessment (Free)

These tests are based on the Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) which are used in the LINC assessment and classes.  The CLB-OSA website allows you to test your general language skills online.  In addition, the site provides you with links and information about the Canadian Language Benchmarks.  This is an unofficial assessment that can help you understand your skill level; it is not accepted as proof of language skills for immigration or other purposes.  You need to register online and will require a computer, headsets, and sufficicient time (several hours) to take the test as it cannot be saved.  To register, go to www.clb-osa.ca

ESL courses online through Independent Learning Centre ($)

These English courses are for adults who speak little or no English. You must have someone to act as a volunteer tutor to help you with the course.  The courses focus on simple language for speaking in commong situations.  Fees are $540 for refugee claimants, $40 for permanent residents and citizens.  For more information, visit www.ilc.org.

English classes at Fleming College ($)

These are for-fee classes run through the Continuing Education program.  Classes differ from semester to semester; however, there are usually general English or business English classes that may be of interest to you (especially if you are interested in enrolling in a college program).  For more information, check out their website at www.flemingc.on.ca.

The ESL program at Trent University ($)

This is an intensive, for-fee program primarily attended by Trent International students.  Fees are approximately $3000-4000 per semester (there are no discounted fees for Canadian Citizens or Permanent Residents).  For more information, check out their website at  www.trentu.ca/admin/tip/esl/