Adult Learning

Language Training for Adults

There are opportunities in Simcoe County to help adults learn or advance their English and French language skills. Different programs offer different types of instruction and are designed for individuals with different English or French language abilities.

English Programs for Adults

There are programs in Simcoe County to help you learn or practice your English.  These programs are designed to help you improve your English language skills.  It is important to learn what the different programs can provide to you and how they will help you achieve your goals.  For example, some programs are designed to help newcomers learn basic conversational English, while other programs are designed to help more advanced English speakers who are looking for a job in a specific occupation. 

The programs listed below may have different eligibility requirements and registration processes. They are available at no cost to eligible newcomers.  In addition, some programs may offer free child care while you attend classes.  To learn more about a particular program, contact the organizations listed below.

English as a Second Language: Lessons are provided by trained professionals in a classroom setting.  Students will improve speaking and listening, reading and writing skills, as well as learn about Canadian culture. The programs are based on the Canadian Language Benchmarks.

Conversation Circles: Conversation Circles focus on learning “conversational English”.  They provide an opportunity to meet other newcomers in your area and practice English in an informal, comfortable setting.  They are guided by a trained professional.

Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC): The program teaches English language skills in a classroom setting by trained professionals.  There are also opportunities to take these courses online, from your home.

Occupation Specific Language Training (OSLT): This program provides job-specific English language training and is designed for internationally-trained professionals.

Local community organizations and colleges also offer programs for adults to improve their English language skills.  Students may be required to pay a fee for these programs.

To learn more about local programs and services in Simcoe County, contact 211 Community Connection by dialing 2-1-1 or visiting infosimcoecounty.ca​. 
211 Community Connection provides free, confidential information about human services, and is available in over 150 languages and TTY.

French Programs for Adults

Beginning in September 2013, eligible newcomer adults can attend French as a Second Language (FSL) classes offered by the Simcoe County District School Board’s Learning Centres.  This program is available at no cost.  To learn more about this program contact,

Collège Boréal also offer French language classes for adults who are interested in learning or improving their French.  Students are required to pay a fee for these programs.  To learn more, contact:  

To learn more about local programs and services in Simcoe County, contact 211 Community Connection by dialing 2-1-1 or visiting infosimcoecounty.ca.  211 Community Connection provides free, confidential information about human services, and is available in over 150 languages and TTY.

Your local libraries can also help you to find information about French language program opportunities in your community.

Academic Upgrading

The Simcoe Muskoka Skillforce is one of 16 regional literacy networks established throughout Ontario and funded by the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development (MLITSD). Simcoe Muskoka Skillforce serves Simcoe County and all of Muskoka, except for the areas of the Georgian Triangle and Bradford.

Simcoe Muskoka Skillforce supports the staff, volunteers, and, indirectly, learners at 20 different Literacy and Basic Skills (LBS) programs in our geographical region. The programs offer skills upgrading in reading, writing, numeracy, computer literacy, critical thinking, problem-solving and other essential every-day and employability skills.

The agencies work together to provide a full range of services, from basic skills review to college and apprenticeship preparatory courses. Programming also includes a strong component of essential skills training for the workforce, apprenticeship and employment preparation, as well as greater personal independence.

To learn more about the Simcoe Muskoka Skillforce and to locate programs near you, contact:

Continuing Education for Adults

Continuing education provides opportunities for adults to continue learning. Continuing education programs and courses are an opportunity for adults to develop knowledge in a specific area. To learn more about this type of education, see Continuing Education.​