Training and Development > Language Training

Language Training

Interested in having your employees improve their English or French communications skills? There are a number of good resources available, including free language training for newcomers to Canada.

Plus, because language training serves to improve several essential skills (speaking, listening, reading and writing), it can be very helpful not only for newcomers to Canada but also for employees with limited literacy skills.

Language Standards for Tourism Occupations

In partnership with CTHRC, Canadian Language Benchmarks has developed Tourism Sector Occupational Language Analyses—specific, national standards for English as a second language for 14 tourism occupations. The standards describe English competency at 12 levels within four skill areas: listening, speaking, reading and writing. For more information, visit www.itsessential.ca.

Language Training for Newcomers

Most universities and community colleges offer language classes, as do some private language schools and community organizations.

In addition, the government of Canada, in cooperation with a network of partners, offers free language training across the country for newcomers to Canada.

In most provinces, you can find the program under the acronym LINC, which stands for Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada. Click here for a list of the LINC assessment centres across Canada. These centres can assess the employee’s language-training needs and refer him or her to the appropriate LINC.

Literacy Training

Look in the Yellow Pages under “LEARN,” contact your local board of education or visit ABC Canada to download a directory of literacy programs across Canada.

Tourism-specific Training

Some language-training firms will develop training specifically to match your employees language needs. Contact these groups directly for more information and to inquire about the fees. Make sure you ask them about customized training programs.