Language Services

CBAL language services help newcomers to Canada improve their English skills!

Do you live in the Kootenay Boundary region? Are you interested in language services? 

CBAL offers both online and in-person classes. Click on Online Classes to see the schedule or click on Local Classes to find a settlement office near you and options for in-person classes.

If you have any questions, email language@cbal.org and one of our team members will get back to you!

Language Services

CBAL provides free English language programs to:

  • Permanent residents
  • Refugees and refugee claimants
  • Temporary foreign workers
  • Provincial nominees
  • Naturalized Canadian citizens

 

Our general language programs aim to help clients improve their skills in listening, speaking, reading and writing. Our Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) program is a specific language training program for eligible adult learners. Certified instructors use everyday tasks and real-world examples to support learners from levels Literacy to Canadian Language Benchmark Level 8. Classes funded federally through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) use the LINC curriculum.

We know that strong English language skills are important for work and for life outside of work, so we provide a range of classes and tutoring options to help meet each client's needs.

Below are the four key types of language supports CBAL offers.

Tutoring

One to one tutoring is available for newcomers wanting to improve their language skills. A local settement worker can connect you with a tutor.

Conversation Class

Conversation Class is more structured and has specific topics focused on language suitable for workplaces and more formal settings.

These classes are offered in-person and online. Beginner, Intermediate and Advanced options are available.

Connect with a settlement worker to find the right class for you!

Conversation Club

Conversation Club is perfect for newcomers wanting to practice their speaking and listening skills in a fun, engaging and social setting. In-person and online options!

English Language Class

English Language Class uses a structured curriculum that is aimed to improve speaking, listening, reading and writing skills. Classes are designed based on CLB levels (currently offering levels Literacy to Level 8).

Note: All federally-funded classes use the LINC curriculum (see above) and attendees must take a language assessment for placement in classes.

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Columbia Basin Alliance for Literacy does not offer immigration consulting services. For inquiries on how to immigrate to Canada or obtain work/study/visitor visa: Please visit www.iccrc-crcic.ca to find a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant in your area.

What do participants say about our programs?

Adult Learning 1
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Tutoring

Language Classes

"I feel better speaking in public and at work. I am not afraid to make mistakes.”

Conversation Groups

“I don't need to have other people speak for me, I can speak now for myself.”

One to One Tutoring

"I like that the tutor can meet me alone so I can get help."

Funders

Settlement and language services are made possible through the funding of the Province of B.C.'s Ministry of Municipal Affairs and the Government of Canada's Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada.