COSTI’s English language programs provide a range of learning levels to help newcomers with their short-term and long-term settlement. Our programs help newcomers to learn English, learn about Canadian life and culture and feel more engaged with their new communities

In 2020/21, all classes transitioned successfully to online learning as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite lower enrollment, the average student attendance remained high at 75%, with just under 3,000 newcomers participating in online English classes across Toronto, the Region of Peel and York Region. More than half completed a minimum of one level within the year.  290 newcomers participated in high-level English language instruction including sector-specific terminology and Canadian workplace orientation.

The demand for online skills training courses increased with the introduction of our new Digital and Media Literacy course. The success and interest in the course has made digital skills training a priority for the coming year, helping newcomers to Canada with upgrading their information technology skills in order to be job-ready and remain competitive.

With the successful transition to online classes during the pandemic, we continue to work on developing flexible language instruction responses and new delivery models to address the barriers and challenges preventing newcomers from learning English. Our priority for the delivery of language and skill training programs for the future aims to expand online services, offering blended and in-person options post COVID-19.