New to Canada and need a little help?
Our English as a Second Language (ESL) program is a friendly place for newcomers to improve English language skills and learn the language needed to settle in the community.
- What will I learn?
- How do I join a class?
- I have children. Can I bring them?
- Where and when are the classes?
- Other resources
Class Topics
Taught by certified teachers of English as a Second Language, the program will help you learn English to do everyday tasks like talking to others, buying food and asking for help. Topics include:
- family health and safety
- education & employment
- shopping
- using the telephone
- banking and paying bills
- community and government services
- Canadian law and culture
How to Join
To join the YMCA-YWCA of Winnipeg’s ESL program, you must first go to the Winnipeg English Language Assessment and Referral Centre (WELARC) and they will give you a test that helps place you into the correct English language program.
WELARC
400-275 Portage Avenue
Winnipeg, MB
204.943.5387
info@welarc.net
Can I Bring My Children?
The programs that include Care for Newcomer Children (CNC) are specifically for women who have children between 6 months to 5 years old and require child care in order to attend class. Our CNC program provides a safe and nurturing environment for you children while you attend language classes. Children are supported in all areas of their development (physical, social, cognitive, emotional and linguistic). We celebrate the unique strengths and characteristics of your child while they learn additional language and culture. Once you no longer need CNC, you will be referred to another ESL program.
About your child’s safety
All child minding staff:
- are qualified to work with children
- have up-to-date first aid training
- have had criminal record checks to ensure they are legally allowed to work with children
Class Locations & Times
Classes are held at our Downtown branch at 301 Vaughan Street. Classes do not run during school breaks.
| Foundations-CLB 3 | 9 to 11 a.m. | Tuesday-Friday | This class offers childcare and prioritizes parents of children between 6 months and 5 years. |
| CLB 3-5 | 9 to 11 a.m. | Tuesday-Friday | This class offers childcare and prioritizes parents of children between 6 months and 5 years. |
| Foundations-CLB 3 | 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. | Monday-Friday | No childcare available |
| Foundations-CLB 3 | 1 to 3 p.m. | Monday-Friday | No childcare available |
| Foundations-CLB 3 | 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. | Tuesday-Friday | No childcare available |
The classes are close to all bus stops at Portage Place Shopping Centre, including buses 11, 21, 22, 24, 25, 40, 41, 50, 53, 54, 55, 56, 59, 67 and 68.
We’d be happy to answer questions about this program. For more information, please call our ESL staff or email us!
Other Resources
Winnipeg English Language Assessment and Referral Centre (WELARC)
Entry Program
Immigrant Centre
Register Now