2.C Settlement and Integration

C.8 How is language treated?

(iii) Are there language learning services geared towards refugees already in place?

How Canada Does It

Language learning services may be geared towards newcomers to Canada, including refugees. The Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) program offers language classes nationwide to sponsored refugees with various levels of English or French. The LINC program provides newcomers with language instruction and information on how to settle in Canada (e.g. housing, banking, citizenship, and how to get a job). Sponsored refugees may access other language learning opportunities through the Settlement Program (e.g. conversation circles). Community organizations, school boards, public libraries, and post-secondary institutions may also provide language instruction. Sponsors can also provide informal language lessons and encourage conversation to practice language skills.

The LINC program offers language classes nationwide to sponsored refugees with various levels of English or French. Settlement agencies, community organizations, school boards, public libraries, and post-secondary institutions may also provide language instruction. To increase access to language instruction classes, Canada offers child-minding spaces in classes and transportation subsidies in certain locations. Classes for people with special needs may also be available.

LINC program providers include community organizations, schools, and colleges. LINC classes can be taken in-person or online on a full-time or part-time basis. Courses are taught from literacy to advanced language ability levels for all four language skill areas (reading, writing, listening, and speaking) and are increasingly focused on labour market inclusion. The program offers day and evening classes. In some cases, refugees can access childminding services or transportation assistance to enable them to attend language training. Classes are based on the Canadian Language Benchmarks and Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens frameworks.