Language Learning Programs

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Durham District School Board (DDSB) through Durham Continuing Education (DCE) provides language and learning programs.

You can Learn English and elementary students can  ctake courses in International Languages and English as a Second Language classes are available for adults and secondary students through DCE.

DCE offers classes during the day or outside of regular school time to help fit your schedule.

Learn English

Newcomers to Canada may benefit from the Durham Continuing Education Learn English program. The Durham District School Board offers free, morning, afternoon and evening Learn English classes as well as English as a Second Language classes.

Eligibility

Before you can take Durham Continuing Education (DCE) English classes through the Learn English program, you must complete a language assessment for the Durham District School Board. A certified Canadian Language Benchmark assessor will test your English skills to determine your English proficiency level.

In order to enter the Learn English program, you must:

  • Take an English language assessment
  • Be 18 years of age or older
  • Be either a permanent resident of Canada, a Convention refugee, or be a person in Canada in the process of becoming a Permanent Resident with a letter of Confirmation of Permanent Residence

English as a Second Language

Durham Continuing Education (DCE) offers programs for adults to learn English as a Second Language (ESL). You may want to take ESL if you are new to Canada or are Canadian-born but your first language isn't English.

ESL programs for adults

If you are an adult learner and would like to take ESL classes, contact DCE. Our classes run during the day or in the evening. For class schedules, registration and fees, see English as Second Language course information.

High school ESL programs

If you are a high school student, you will be placed in an ESL course after taking a language assessment after registration. The Durham District School Board (DDSB) has ESL Facilitators and coaches that support our schools and students.

International and Indigenous Languages (Elementary Level) program

Durham Continuing Education (DCE) offers the International and Indigenous Languages (Elementary Level) program. This program is open to students registered with Durham District School Board (DDSB) in Kindergarten to Grade 8. Classes take place outside of regular school hours throughout the school year.

Visit the DCE International and Indigenous Languages (Elementary Level) program for more information about classes and registration.