Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada
As we wrap up another impactful year, we’re proud to share the achievements and growth of our Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) program for fiscal 2024–25. Our mission is to support newcomers in building strong foundations for life in Canada—and this year, our classrooms were full of stories of resilience, learning, and transformation.
We welcomed over 1100 newcomer learners, offering instruction across a wide range of levels—from literacy to advanced English. Whether in-person or online, learners engaged in lessons tailored to real-life needs, including workplace English, community engagement, digital literacy, and citizenship preparation.
One learner captured the spirit of the program beautifully:
“Thank you to this school and my teachers
For giving me more than just English
You gave me strength.
You gave me wings.”
This reflection reminds us that LINC is more than language instruction—it’s about empowerment, confidence, and growth.
To meet the needs of learners with little or no prior schooling, we expanded our in-person literacy classes. These safe, supportive spaces help build foundational skills and confidence.
Our Care for Newcomer Children (CNC) program continues to remove barriers by offering childcare during class hours. This enables newcomer parents to pursue their language goals without the added stress of childcare responsibilities.
Thanks to support from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), we enhanced our HyFlex learning model with tools like Meeting Owl devices and other interactive technologies. Learners can now choose the format that works best for them—whether in-class or remote—without compromising the quality of instruction.
We also invested in teacher development, with ongoing training in HyFlex delivery, Portfolio-Based Language Assessment (PBLA), and digital tools. These efforts ensure our educators are equipped to deliver engaging, effective lessons in any format.
Beyond language instruction, we collaborate with local organizations to offer wrap-around support. This includes information sessions, referrals to employment and settlement services, and awareness-building initiatives that help learners navigate their new environment with confidence.
In response to IRCC’s new funding cycle and reduced budgets, we’ve embraced innovation—maximizing resources, strengthening partnerships, and finding creative ways to maintain high-quality program delivery.
Looking ahead to 2025–26, our goal remains clear: to keep LINC classrooms welcoming, diverse, and impactful. We’re committed to supporting newcomers in their journey toward full participation in Canadian society.
