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English as
a Second Language Programs and Services
British Columbia is responsible for the design, administration and
delivery of settlement and integration services for immigrants and
refugees within the province.
The province is committed to providing ESL programs and services
that help immigrants and refugees become self-sufficient, and enable
newcomers to take part in the social and economic life of the province.
New immigrants and refugees settling in British Columbia are supported
by two program areas: the British Columbia
Settlement and Adaptation Program (BCSAP), administered by the
Ministry of Attorney General; and Adult
English as a Second Language programs, administered by the Ministry
of Advanced Education.
Current ESL Services in British Columbia
- ESL services are offered by a broad variety of service providers
with specific areas of expertise, as well as public post-secondary
education institutions.
- A wide variety of ESL services are delivered by well-trained,
dedicated and experienced instructors.
- ESL programs are flexible, client-centered and inclusive. They
are open to a wide range of students of varying ages.
- English Language Services for Adults programs, and ESL classes
at the literacy level offered at public post-secondary institutions,
are tuition free. Students who take higher level ESL programs
in the public post-secondary system may be eligible for provincial
funding assistance.
- Some ESL programs provide child-minding services.
Moving Forward
- Government recognizes that effective, responsive and flexible
ESL programs and services are essential to maximize the social
and economic benefits of immigration and integrate immigrants
into Canadian society.
- An ESL Services
Review [PDF] was completed in 2004. This was the first phase
in the development and design of an enhanced ESL delivery model
that best matches available resources and newcomers' needs.
- A number of recommendations in the report are being implemented.
The ministries of Attorney General and Advanced Education are
working together to develop a more seamless ESL service delivery
system, which includes regular inter-ministry consultations and
partnerships among government ministries and stakeholders on assessment
and curricula development projects.
- The province is moving forward in its commitment to develop
and design an enhanced ESL delivery model. The current context,
future ESL service requirements, and immigration priorities are
being considered in the final stage of the ESL services review
project.
For more information on ESL Services, please see British
Columbia Newcomers' Guide to Resources and Services.
October 25, 2006
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