• Education
• Elementary and Secondary School
• ESL and Other Languages

What kind of language support does the school system provide?

Many schools have English Literacy Development (ELD) and English Language Learning (ELL) programs for children. These programs are sometimes grouped under English as a Second Language (ESL).

Elementary and high schools in Ontario will assess your child at a School Reception Centre or during their first few weeks in class to determine their language-learning needs.

Some students may have had limited or interrupted formal schooling. These programs can help your child learn to read and write in English, which can be difficult if they cannot read and write in their first language. For secondary students, these language courses count towards your child's high school diploma.

Some programs and support services your child may have during their school year include:

• Integrated classroom programs place your child in a regular classroom, and they receive English-language support.
• Intensive or Partial Support means your child gets literacy support outside the regular classroom for most or part of the day.
• Tutorial Support happens when your child is taught one-on-one or in a small group.
• Other Support may include your child receiving help using technology, special learning materials, or information about community programs.

According to the Supporting English Language Learners guidelines, "English language learners should receive ESL/ELD program support until they have acquired the level of proficiency required to learn effectively in English with no ESL/ELD support."

How can I help my child learn English?

You can encourage your child to practice their English skills at English conversation programs or a homework club through the school. Many settlement agencies and libraries offer these programs. Ask for language help at your child's school or the settlement worker at your school or local agency. Most school boards have the Settlement Workers in School programs that are described here by the Toronto District School Board (TDSB).

For young children who are not yet in school, you may wish to visit a local EarlyON or Family Centre. You can contact 211Ontario for more information about available programs in your area.

For More Information

• Local School Boards - A list of the government-funded school boards across Ontario.
• Private Elementary and Secondary Schools - Search for a specific private school or view a complete list of all private schools in Ontario.
• Improve your English and French - These language training programs are for newcomers from the Government of Ontario.
• Ontario Public Libraries - A list of Ontario libraries that have websites.
• Newcomers' Guides to Education - Information about Ontario's publicly funded school system. These guides are available in many different languages.
• ESL Corner - This section on Settlement.Org has many activities to help you improve your English and learn more about Canadian culture, laws and daily life.