Help for Job Seekers

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Help for Job Seekers

This tool can help you find local groups and resources in Waterloo Region, Guelph-Wellington, and Dufferin County to assist you with your:
  • Education
  • Career
  • Work goals
First, tell us about the kind of help you’re looking for.
  • Click on the item below that best describes what you want.
  • Keep making choices until you find what you need.
  • To go back to any point, click the ^ button next to the section you wish to close.
If you have suggested changes, additional resources, or other feedback, please email: [email protected].

Some groups offer special programming. Please choose what fits you best.

    The legal minimum age to work in Ontario depends on the type of work you want to do. For most jobs, you must be at least 14 or 15 years old.

      Below are some job and career-related options that you can consider while in high school. To learn more, check with your high school guidance counsellor. They may be aware of other supports or programs for you.

        • Cooperative (Co-op) education:
          • Students can apply two co-op credits towards their high school graduation, with no limit on earning other co-op credits. All Ontario school boards with high schools offer co-op programs. Contact your cooperative education or guidance department, or your school principal for more information.
        • Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP):
          • Consider careers in the skilled trades through on-the-job training and classroom learning
        • Dual Credit Programs:
          • Take college or apprenticeship credit courses that count towards high school graduation.
        • Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM):
          • Gain credits toward your high school Diploma and focus your learning on a specific economic sector at the same time.

          These are organizations that support youth with career decision making. They may offer programs to youth one-to-one or provide support through high schools and other organizations.

          The Career Education Council is a registered charitable organization based in Guelph, Wellington, and Dufferin dedicated to providing youth with meaningful opportunities for experiential learning, career exploration, and skill development. We collaborate extensively with local employers, educators, and community partners to provide learning opportunities that will help youth to make more informed choices about their future education, training, and career pathway.

          271 Stephanie Dr Website View Full Company Profile

          Too many young people leave high school without a clear understanding of the possibilities that exist for their future.

          The Business and Education Partnership is an award-winning charity that helps young people better understand and prepare for the world of work, so that they can build their own paths to successful careers.

          74 Queen St. N, Unit B Website View Full Company Profile

            These are career programs and services for youth that are provided by the provincial or federal government.

            Province of Ontario:

            Government of Canada (Federal):

              Employment Agencies are private for-profit companies. The jobs they offer to job seekers may be permanent jobs, or short- or long-term contracts. Some agencies specialize in specific sectors (i.e. industrial, professional, healthcare, etc.).

              Employers connect with agencies like these to save time and effort in the hiring process. The employer pays a fee or wage percentage to the agency to find candidates who are a good match for the job. There is no fee to the job seeker. The agency wants many job seekers in its database so it can provide employers with the best match. Signing up with an agency is not a guarantee that they will find you the type of work you are interested in.

              Employment agencies want employees who are job-ready. This means that they will expect you to already have:

              • a good resume
              • good interview skills
              • the skills you need for the job
              • planned your
                • transportation
                • childcare
                • or anything else needed to be a good and reliable worker.

              If you would like help with becoming “job-ready”, including help with your resume and interview skills, connect first with your local Employment Ontario Service Provider (or school guidance counsellor or Career Centre, if you are a student).

              Private Employment Agencies (view these results on a map in a new tab):

                If you are a university or college student, connect with your campus Career Centre for more resources and services. Alumni may also have access to these career services.

                  These are career programs and services for youth that are provided by the provincial or federal government.

                  Province of Ontario:

                  Government of Canada (Federal):

                    Employment Agencies are private for-profit companies. The jobs they offer to job seekers may be permanent jobs, or short- or long-term contracts. Some agencies specialize in specific sectors (i.e. industrial, professional, healthcare, etc.).

                    Employers connect with agencies like these to save time and effort in the hiring process. The employer pays a fee or wage percentage to the agency to find candidates who are a good match for the job. There is no fee to the job seeker. The agency wants many job seekers in its database so it can provide employers with the best match. Signing up with an agency is not a guarantee that they will find you the type of work you are interested in.

                    Employment agencies want employees who are job-ready. This means that they will expect you to already have:

                    • a good resume
                    • good interview skills
                    • the skills you need for the job
                    • planned your
                      • transportation
                      • childcare
                      • or anything else needed to be a good and reliable worker.

                    If you would like help with becoming “job-ready”, including help with your resume and interview skills, connect first with your local Employment Ontario Service Provider (or school guidance counsellor or Career Centre, if you are a student).

                    Private Employment Agencies (view these results on a map in a new tab):

                        Free help with

                        • resumes
                        • job search
                        • interview skills
                        • career planning
                        • connections to other job-related programs and supports.

                        Able to help

                        • Canadian Citizens
                        • Permanent Residents
                        • people who have been granted Refugee Status.

                        For standard Employment Services through Employment Ontario, you must be

                        • aged 18 or older
                        • not enrolled as a full-time student.

                        Most students will have access to career services offered via their school. They can connect with Employment Services when school career services are no longer available to them.

                        View Employment Services locations on a map (will open in a new tab)

                          Additional organizations or programs that support youth or young adults are listed below. Eligibility for services and programs will vary.

                          Waterloo Region

                          • Argus Residence (Cambridge):
                            • Employment Training – paid employment training for unemployed youth ages 15-30 who are not attending full-time school, are eligible to work in Canada (not student work visa), and live in the Waterloo Region area
                          • CCRW
                            • offers employment services for youth ages 15-30 who identify as having a disability
                          • Kinbridge Community Association
                            • YouthForce – for youth ages 15-29 living in Waterloo Region
                          • KW Habilitation
                            • KW Career Compass – for people aged 18+ residing in Waterloo Region with any barrier to employment
                          • KW Multicultural Centre
                            • Let’s Talk – open to all newcomer youth ages 14-21 that focuses on career guidance and helping you achieve your career goals
                          • NPAAMB
                            • provides skills development and training opportunities for urban Indigenous youth in Southern Ontario.
                          • OneROOF
                            • provides for the safety, support, and overall well-being of youth who are experiencing homelessness, and youth who are at-risk of homelessness, aged 12-25, in Waterloo Region

                          Guelph / Wellington County

                          • CCRW
                            • offers employment services for youth ages 15-30 who identify as having a disability
                          • NPAAMB
                            • provides skills development and training opportunities for urban Indigenous youth in Southern Ontario.

                          Dufferin County

                            These are career programs and services for youth that are provided by the provincial or federal government.

                            Province of Ontario:

                            Government of Canada (Federal):

                              Employment Agencies are private for-profit companies. The jobs they offer to job seekers may be permanent jobs, or short- or long-term contracts. Some agencies specialize in specific sectors (i.e. industrial, professional, healthcare, etc.).

                              Employers connect with agencies like these to save time and effort in the hiring process. The employer pays a fee or wage percentage to the agency to find candidates who are a good match for the job. There is no fee to the job seeker. The agency wants many job seekers in its database so it can provide employers with the best match. Signing up with an agency is not a guarantee that they will find you the type of work you are interested in.

                              Employment agencies want employees who are job-ready. This means that they will expect you to already have:

                              • a good resume
                              • good interview skills
                              • the skills you need for the job
                              • planned your
                                • transportation
                                • childcare
                                • or anything else needed to be a good and reliable worker.

                              If you would like help with becoming “job-ready”, including help with your resume and interview skills, connect first with your local Employment Ontario Service Provider (or school guidance counsellor or Career Centre, if you are a student).

                              Private Employment Agencies (view these results on a map in a new tab):

                                A Newcomer is a landed immigrant or refugee who has been in Canada for a short time, usually less than five (5) years.

                                  Local organizations providing one-on-one Employment and Settlement support for Newcomers to Canada:

                                  Our employment services help prepare clients for financial independence. We meet one-on-one with clients to provide:

                                  • employment needs assessment and referrals
                                  • resume critique and development
                                  • assistance with career pathways planning, job search and interview skills
                                  • volunteer placement in the community to gain workplace experience
                                  104 Dawson Road Unit #102 519-836-2222 Website View Full Company Profile

                                  Provides service to permanent residents and people who have refugee status in Canada.
                                  Programs include:

                                  • Job and Career services
                                  • Conversational English program
                                  • Settlement Services
                                  • Interpretation & Translation
                                  • Refugee Claimant Services
                                  • and more.
                                  715 Fischer-Hallman, Unit 401 519-745-2531 Website View Full Company Profile

                                  My Pathways to Employment is a five-week online course designed for Ontario Works recipients struggling to find jobs or facing multiple complex barriers to employment. This program starts with an intake and assessment stage to understand a participant’s struggles, needs and wants related to employment. Afterwards, participants join an 80-hour pre-employment development workshop that includes career exploration and essential employment skills development. At the conclusion, participants are put in post-program and post-hiring support for six months.

                                  Our Transition to Employment for Newcomers program is designed to help make finding a job easier for newcomers seeking employment, including internationally trained professionals and tradespeople. it includes individual coaching, linking to resources and employment workshops to assist in identifying employment pathways, prepare for job search and develop skills needed to succeed.

                                  3363 Bloor St W 416-233-0055 Website View Full Company Profile

                                  WIN supports internationally-trained job seekers in Waterloo Region with personalized planning to navigate back into their fields of expertise or to explore new industries and occupations where their skills would be a great fit.

                                  73 Water St. N. 5196227122 [email protected] Website View Full Company Profile

                                    Free help with

                                    • Resumes
                                    • job search
                                    • interview skills
                                    • career planning
                                    • connections to other job-related programs and supports.

                                    Able to help

                                    • Canadian Citizens
                                    • Permanent Residents
                                    • people that have been granted Refugee Status.

                                    Note: Employment Services through Employment Ontario service providers are not available to people enrolled as a full-time student. Most students will have access to career services offered via their school. You can connect with Employment Services when school career services are no longer available to you.

                                    View Employment Services locations on a map (will open in a new tab)

                                      Employment Agencies are private for-profit companies. The jobs they offer to job seekers may be permanent jobs, or short- or long-term contracts. Some agencies specialize in specific sectors (i.e. industrial, professional, healthcare, etc.).

                                      Employers connect with agencies like these to save time and effort in the hiring process. The employer pays a fee or wage percentage to the agency to find candidates who are a good match for the job. There is no fee to the job seeker. The agency wants many job seekers in its database so it can provide employers with the best match. Signing up with an agency is not a guarantee that they will find you the type of work you are interested in.

                                      Employment agencies want employees who are job-ready. This means that they will expect you to already have:

                                      • a good resume
                                      • good interview skills
                                      • the skills you need for the job
                                      • planned your
                                        • transportation
                                        • childcare
                                        • or anything else needed to be a good and reliable worker.

                                      If you would like help with becoming “job-ready”, including help with your resume and interview skills, connect first with your local Employment Ontario Service Provider (or school guidance counsellor or Career Centre, if you are a student).

                                      Private Employment Agencies (view these results on a map in a new tab):

                                        Local Immigration Partnerships are made up of

                                        • businesses
                                        • community agencies
                                        • current residents
                                        • governments
                                        • and investors.

                                        They plan together how to attract newcomers to their area and improve their life in the community.

                                        Local Immigration Partnerships (LIP’s) are municipal or regional coalitions designed to strengthen local capacity to attract newcomers and improve integration outcomes in all aspects of life. Funded by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), LIP’s were established to encourage a community-driven strategic planning process. The vision was one that combined national objectives and financial support for settlement and integration with considerable scope for local discretion in service integration and community pathways.

                                        In the city of Guelph and Wellington County, it was the City of Guelph which hosted the Guelph-Wellington Local Immigration Partnership (GWLIP). Established in 2009, the GWLIP is responsible for bringing the Guelph and Wellington County and community stakeholders together in support of immigrant integration. Recent projects include the Immigrant Housing Barriers Study, Refugee Settlement Study, and Community Neighbourhood Snapshots.

                                        42 Carden Street 519-822-1260 ext. 2625 Website View Full Company Profile

                                        The Immigration Partnership of Waterloo Region is a collaboration of service providers, settlement agencies, community groups, employers and other key organizations across the municipality, with a goal of creating a welcoming and inclusive community for newcomers. Their website shares information about many organizations and resources that can help you further.

                                        235 King Street East, 6th Floor 519-575-4757 ext. 3172 Website View Full Company Profile
                                            • CCRW is a national not-for-profit organization that exists to promote and support meaningful and equitable employment of persons with disabilities.

                                              At CCRW, we offer job search assistance, employer incentives, accommodation assessments, consulting services, and a variety of workshops. Additionally, we provide a range of services for employers, from consulting, to hiring and retention, and disability confidence training.

                                              Whether you are a job seeker living with a disability or an employer looking to tap into a talented pool of candidates, CCRW will partner with you to meet your unique needs and help you succeed.

                                              127 Victoria Street South, Suite 201 519-571-6788 Website View Full Company Profile
                                            • Employment Services at Canadian Hearing Services (CHS) offer free supports to Deaf and hard of hearing individuals, ages 16 and over, to find a job and succeed by working with employees and employers to put the right supports in place.

                                              Employment Services focuses on people who are Deaf and hard of hearing and their unique employment challenges. Our network of employers is familiar with the needs of the Deaf and hard of hearing. Other services for people with disabilities may not have our knowledge base and expertise working with a wide range of hearing loss in the workplace, including fluency in ASL, technology applications, workplace communication, and safety strategies for Deaf and hard of hearing employees. We can also address the needs of people with literacy challenges and deaf immigrants whose first language is not English, French, ASL or LSQ.

                                              120 Ottawa St. N, Suite #200 1-866-518-0000; TTY: 1-877-215-9530 Website View Full Company Profile
                                            • CNIB’s Come to Work program supports blind and partially sighted job seekers in Canada prepare for, secure, and retain employment. The program offers virtual 1-1 and group employment and technology support sessions, opportunities to meet with employers, and information about advocacy and accommodations.

                                              In addition to the Come to Work program, Talent Pool Members will have access to CNIB’s other services, including peer and recreation groups, braille literacy learning, and guide dog support. To become a Talent Pool Member, please phone or email CNIB’s Contact Center to arrange an orientation and register as a member.

                                              1-800-563-2642 Website View Full Company Profile
                                            • Extend-A-Family Waterloo Region is a developmental disability services organization that puts you first. Live fully in a community where everyone belongs.

                                              Working Adults Learning Empowering Skills (WALES) – Led by participants, with the support of staff, every person creates a plan for achieving their future goals. People learn to discover their strengths and gifts and how they wish to connect and be involved in their community.

                                              91 Moore Ave (519) 741-0190 x303 Website View Full Company Profile
                                            • KidsAbility supports children and youth from birth to age 21 (and their families) to reach communication, social, physical and behavioural goals. Using a blended model of virtual and in-person services, they work with each family to look at the whole child and together create a plan to make their goals possible.  Families know that they are not alone, and are connected to resources, programs and supports.

                                              KidsAbility School provides half-day special education programs for junior kindergarten children with special needs.

                                              500 Hallmark Dr Website View Full Company Profile
                                            • KW AccessAbility is a non-profit information and resource centre that supports self-determination for adults with physical disabilities based upon the principles of choice, equality, co-operation and mutual respect.

                                              659 King Street East, Suite 250 Website View Full Company Profile
                                            • KW Habilitation provides a wide range of individualized services and supports to children with any special need and adults with developmental disabilities.

                                              We believe that a good life is fostered through:

                                              • early learning supports
                                              • inclusive living services
                                              • community involvement
                                              • and employment supports.
                                              99 Ottawa St S Website View Full Company Profile
                                            • With your help, Ray of Hope provides life-changing services to people in need. Together, we demonstrate the love of Christ with those who are disadvantaged, marginalized, or troubled.

                                              230-659 King St E Website View Full Company Profile

                                              Free help with

                                              • Resumes
                                              • job search
                                              • interview skills
                                              • career planning
                                              • connections to other job-related programs and supports.

                                              Able to help

                                              • Canadian Citizens
                                              • Permanent Residents
                                              • people that have been granted Refugee Status.

                                              Note: Employment Services through Employment Ontario service providers are not available to people enrolled as a full-time student. Most students will have access to career services offered via their school. You can connect with Employment Services when school career services are no longer available to you.

                                              View Employment Services locations on a map (will open in a new tab)

                                                Employment Agencies are private for-profit companies. The jobs they offer to job seekers may be permanent jobs, or short- or long-term contracts. Some agencies specialize in specific sectors (i.e. industrial, professional, healthcare, etc.).

                                                Employers connect with agencies like these to save time and effort in the hiring process. The employer pays a fee or wage percentage to the agency to find candidates who are a good match for the job. There is no fee to the job seeker. The agency wants many job seekers in its database so it can provide employers with the best match. Signing up with an agency is not a guarantee that they will find you the type of work you are interested in.

                                                Employment agencies want employees who are job-ready. This means that they will expect you to already have:

                                                • a good resume
                                                • good interview skills
                                                • the skills you need for the job
                                                • planned your
                                                  • transportation
                                                  • childcare
                                                  • or anything else needed to be a good and reliable worker.

                                                If you would like help with becoming “job-ready”, including help with your resume and interview skills, connect first with your local Employment Ontario Service Provider (or school guidance counsellor or Career Centre, if you are a student).

                                                Private Employment Agencies (view these results on a map in a new tab):

                                                  Here are some additional resources that you can access online:

                                                    On this site, “Indigenous” refers to the first inhabitants of Canada, and includes First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples.

                                                      Provides Indigenous people with access to culturally appropriate services and strives to support individuals with direction and assistance to overcome barriers. Encourages individual exploration of avenues that will lead to self-sufficiency and success.

                                                      11A Suffolk Street 519-763-5292 Website View Full Company Profile

                                                      Provides Indigenous people with access to culturally appropriate services and strives to support individuals with direction and assistance to overcome barriers. Encourages individual exploration of avenues that will lead to self-sufficiency and success.

                                                      151 Frederick Street, # 501 519-742-0300 Website View Full Company Profile

                                                      NPAAMB provides skills development and training opportunities for urban Indigenous youth in Southern Ontario.

                                                      256 Hespeler Rd 519-751-8333 Website View Full Company Profile

                                                        White Owl is dedicated to innovative Indigenous Wholistic practice with a commitment to whole person development within families and communities in the Waterloo, Wellington, and Dufferin Regions of Southern Ontario. Founded in 1975, our organization is one of the oldest Indigenous community organizations in Kitchener-Waterloo.

                                                        The goal for children and youth is to experience belonging and value through relationship-building that encourages self acceptance, self expression, and understanding – a sense of place and belonging. Our Wholistic Practitioners work with individual clients and their families to help them in that process.

                                                        65 Hanson Ave 519-957-5004 Website View Full Company Profile

                                                        The Healing of the Seven Generations assists First Peoples residing in the Region of Waterloo and surrounding areas. We work with individuals and families who are suffering the inter-generational impacts of the residential school system. This includes growing up in dysfunctional families; emotional, physical, sexual, and spiritual abuses; poor self-esteem or poor self-image as a First Peoples person; loss of culture; lack of awareness of cultural identity, teachings, values, and traditions; poverty, and addictions.

                                                        We welcome First Peoples from all ages, genders, and cultural groups, including status and non-status First Nations, Métis, and Inuit individuals and families.

                                                        300 Frederick St 519-570-9118 Website View Full Company Profile

                                                        An Inuit-specific urban services provider that offers community supports for Inuit of all ages. Finding your way through the urban systems and getting the support you need is what TI does. We are there for you as you build your life in the south and work to keep you connected to your culture in the north.

                                                        1071 Richmond Road Website View Full Company Profile

                                                          Free help with

                                                          • Resumes
                                                          • job search
                                                          • interview skills
                                                          • career planning
                                                          • connections to other job-related programs and supports.

                                                          Able to help

                                                          • Canadian Citizens
                                                          • Permanent Residents
                                                          • people that have been granted Refugee Status.

                                                          Note: Employment Services through Employment Ontario service providers are not available to people enrolled as a full-time student. Most students will have access to career services offered via their school. You can connect with Employment Services when school career services are no longer available to you.

                                                          View Employment Services locations on a map (will open in a new tab)

                                                            Employment Agencies are private for-profit companies. The jobs they offer to job seekers may be permanent jobs, or short- or long-term contracts. Some agencies specialize in specific sectors (i.e. industrial, professional, healthcare, etc.).

                                                            Employers connect with agencies like these to save time and effort in the hiring process. The employer pays a fee or wage percentage to the agency to find candidates who are a good match for the job. There is no fee to the job seeker. The agency wants many job seekers in its database so it can provide employers with the best match. Signing up with an agency is not a guarantee that they will find you the type of work you are interested in.

                                                            Employment agencies want employees who are job-ready. This means that they will expect you to already have:

                                                            • a good resume
                                                            • good interview skills
                                                            • the skills you need for the job
                                                            • planned your
                                                              • transportation
                                                              • childcare
                                                              • or anything else needed to be a good and reliable worker.

                                                            If you would like help with becoming “job-ready”, including help with your resume and interview skills, connect first with your local Employment Ontario Service Provider (or school guidance counsellor or Career Centre, if you are a student).

                                                            Private Employment Agencies (view these results on a map in a new tab):

                                                                Free help with

                                                                • Resumes
                                                                • job search
                                                                • interview skills
                                                                • career planning
                                                                • connections to other job-related programs and supports.

                                                                Able to help

                                                                • Canadian Citizens
                                                                • Permanent Residents
                                                                • people that have been granted Refugee Status.

                                                                Note: Employment Services through Employment Ontario service providers are not available to people enrolled as a full-time student. Most students will have access to career services offered via their school. You can connect with Employment Services when school career services are no longer available to you.

                                                                View Employment Services locations on a map (will open in a new tab)

                                                                  Employment Agencies are private for-profit companies. The jobs they offer to job seekers may be permanent jobs, or short- or long-term contracts. Some agencies specialize in specific sectors (i.e. industrial, professional, healthcare, etc.).

                                                                  Employers connect with agencies like these to save time and effort in the hiring process. The employer pays a fee or wage percentage to the agency to find candidates who are a good match for the job. There is no fee to the job seeker. The agency wants many job seekers in its database so it can provide employers with the best match. Signing up with an agency is not a guarantee that they will find you the type of work you are interested in.

                                                                  Employment agencies want employees who are job-ready. This means that they will expect you to already have:

                                                                  • a good resume
                                                                  • good interview skills
                                                                  • the skills you need for the job
                                                                  • planned your
                                                                    • transportation
                                                                    • childcare
                                                                    • or anything else needed to be a good and reliable worker.

                                                                  If you would like help with becoming “job-ready”, including help with your resume and interview skills, connect first with your local Employment Ontario Service Provider (or school guidance counsellor or Career Centre, if you are a student).

                                                                  Private Employment Agencies (view these results on a map in a new tab):

                                                                    • FindYourJob.ca – job search and career exploration tools.
                                                                      • Job Board – gathers job postings from many online job boards into one location. This site does not pull from LinkedIn or employer web sites so remember to check those sites if you have a specific employer in mind.
                                                                      • JobSeekers Portal – Customize which job postings you want to see, companies or occupations you want to follow, and create your resume with the resume builder tool.
                                                                    • JobBank.gc.ca – job postings, career planning, and job trend resources from Service Canada
                                                                      • Help for specific audiences: Resources available for Indigenous people, Newcomers in Canada, Youth, Persons with disabilities, Veterans, Temporary foreign workers, and Foreign candidates outside of Canada

                                                                     

                                                                    • ALIS – Online career exploration and planning resources. (Note: In-person services are based in the province of Alberta.)
                                                                    • Caring Support – Healthcare Employment Platform
                                                                    • Ontario Work From Home Job Board – job postings that are listed as fully or partially work-from-home
                                                                    • Ontario WorkInfoNet – Ontario’s largest network of work related resources
                                                                    • Ontario.ca/page/jobs-and-employment is an Ontario government site with several jobs portals for essential jobs across Ontario. This includes postings in health care and food and agriculture. There are also volunteer opportunities on the site.
                                                                    • Helplist.ca is a list where those with skills in the tech industry can add their name as being available for hire to the Canadian tech industry. Employers are invited to use the list to fill their tech vacancies.

                                                                    Connect with your school or local Employment Ontario Employment Services provider for more resources.

                                                                      If English is not your first language, there are places that can help!

                                                                      To start, you will need an assessment of your current level of English. Language Assessments are tests that determine a person’s

                                                                      • Reading
                                                                      • Writing
                                                                      • Listening
                                                                      • Speaking

                                                                      skill levels and proficiency of the English Language. A language assessment follows Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB), ranging from literacy, level 1 to 12. Most organizations that provide English language classes follow the CLB levels and set up classes by individual level or a range of levels.

                                                                        A language assessment is the first step towards knowing which classes or programs are the best fit for your current skills.

                                                                        These locations offer Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) assessments for free. The CLB assessment is used for entry into most local English classes, as well as other community programs.

                                                                          These English language training programs are offered for free.

                                                                          • LINC programs are funded by the federal government and are only available to Landed Immigrants and Convention Newcomers.
                                                                          • ESL classes are funded by the provincial government through the School Board and are open to citizens and all legal residents over 18.

                                                                            LINC Eligibility:

                                                                            • Must be age 18 or older
                                                                            • Must be a Newcomer to Canada:
                                                                              • Permanent Residents
                                                                              • Convention Refugees
                                                                            • NOT available to Canadian Citizens

                                                                            Waterloo Region:

                                                                            Guelph / Wellington County:

                                                                            Dufferin County:

                                                                              ESL Eligibility:

                                                                              • Must be age 18 or older
                                                                              • Canadian citizens (if English is not your first language)
                                                                              • Permanent Residents
                                                                              • Landed immigrants
                                                                              • Convention refugees
                                                                              • Some locations may allow temporary residents and visitors to attend classes for a fee depending on class availability

                                                                              Waterloo Region:

                                                                              Guelph / Wellington County:

                                                                              Near Dufferin County:

                                                                                If you are applying to a university or college and your first language is not English, you may be required to take a standardized English assessment:

                                                                                • IELTS (International English Language Testing System); OR
                                                                                • TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)

                                                                                The school wants to know if your English is strong enough to succeed at an academic level, and these assessments provide the school with a guideline of your skills. Ask the school’s Admissions department which assessment they prefer and learn of more options that may be available.

                                                                                IELTS Preparation Courses:

                                                                                Academic English programs:

                                                                                Your local college, university, or Language Assessment Centre may know of more programs not listed here.

                                                                                    Public schools are government-subsidized, while private schools rely on tuition fees, endowments, and private donations to cover operating costs.

                                                                                        There are 9 skills that provide the foundation you will need to succeed in life, learning and work:

                                                                                        • Reading
                                                                                        • Writing
                                                                                        • Numeracy (Math)
                                                                                        • Digital (Computer skills)
                                                                                        • Adaptability
                                                                                        • Collaboration
                                                                                        • Communication
                                                                                        • Creativity and innovation
                                                                                        • Problem Solving

                                                                                        You can learn more about these Skills for Success by clicking HERE.

                                                                                        Organizations that can help:

                                                                                        Waterloo Region:

                                                                                        Our mission is to provide any adult or family in Waterloo-Wellington with access to literacy training.

                                                                                        • Free referrals to upgrading programs for adults
                                                                                        • Skills assessments (free for Ontario Works clients)
                                                                                        • Programs for children and families

                                                                                        Assessments are mostly done online, but in-person options may be available. Contact Project READ by phone or email for more info.

                                                                                        (519) 570-3054 Website View Full Company Profile

                                                                                        Our mission is to provide any adult or family in Waterloo-Wellington with access to literacy training.

                                                                                        • Free referrals to upgrading programs for adults
                                                                                        • Skills assessments (free for Ontario Works clients)
                                                                                        • Programs for children and families

                                                                                        Assessments are mostly done online, but in-person options may be available. Contact Project READ by phone or email for more info.

                                                                                        (519) 570-3054 Website View Full Company Profile

                                                                                        Core Essentials – Skills for Success is a free program that offers:

                                                                                        • a comfortable classroom environment
                                                                                        • flexible daytime hours
                                                                                        • instruction tailored towards your next steps:
                                                                                          • Secondary School Credit courses
                                                                                          • employment; or
                                                                                          • volunteer work

                                                                                        Secondary School credits are available to take towards your Ontario Secondary School Diploma.

                                                                                        Career-specific programs may also be available, such as:

                                                                                        Cambridge residents are welcome to receive in-person assistance at our Kitchener location (80 Young St.). Upgrading programs are also offered online in either live or self-paced formats.

                                                                                        (519) 745-1201 ext. 238 Website View Full Company Profile

                                                                                        “Core Essentials – Skills for Success” is a free program that offers a comfortable classroom environment, flexible daytime hours, and instruction tailored towards your next steps:

                                                                                        80 Young Street (519) 745-1201 ext. 238 Website View Full Company Profile

                                                                                        Night School offers Grade 11 and Grade 12 credit courses in English, science, math, social science and more.

                                                                                        Continuing Education provides programs such as:

                                                                                        • Essential Skills Upgrading (ESU)
                                                                                        • Summer School; and
                                                                                        • International and Indigenous Languages School
                                                                                        151 Weber Street South (519) 885-0800 Website View Full Company Profile

                                                                                        • Academic Upgrading: provides adult learners with the opportunity to improve their mathematics, communications, science, and computer skills up to college-entry level.
                                                                                        • Academic and Career Entrance (ACE) certificate:
                                                                                          •  Grade 12 equivalency program for adult learners that helps with admission to college post-secondary programs, registration as an apprentice, or jobs that require a high school or equivalent credential
                                                                                        • College Bound: College Bound is a free, six-week program with individualized support to explore the possibilities of you attending college.
                                                                                        • GED:
                                                                                          • an Ontario high school equivalent certificate for adults who have been unable to complete high school
                                                                                          • recognized by employers for application to employment, and by educational institutions to apply to a training or educational program
                                                                                        150 Main Street, Suite 402 519-623-4890 ext. 7501 Website View Full Company Profile

                                                                                        • Academic Upgrading: provides adult learners with the opportunity to improve their mathematics, communications, science, and computer skills up to college-entry level.
                                                                                        • Academic and Career Entrance (ACE) certificate:
                                                                                          •  Grade 12 equivalency program for adult learners that helps with admission to college post-secondary programs, registration as an apprentice, or jobs that require a high school or equivalent credential
                                                                                        • College Bound: College Bound is a free, six-week program with individualized support to explore the possibilities of you attending college.
                                                                                        • GED:
                                                                                          • an Ontario high school equivalent certificate for adults who have been unable to complete high school
                                                                                          • recognized by employers for application to employment, and by educational institutions to apply to a training or educational program
                                                                                        299 Doon Valley Drive (519) 748-5220 ext. 3681 Website View Full Company Profile

                                                                                        Academic Upgrading: provides adult learners with the opportunity to improve their mathematics, communications, science, and computer skills up to college-entry level.

                                                                                        Academic and Career Entrance (ACE) certificate: Grade 12 equivalency program for adult learners that helps with admission to college post-secondary programs, registration as an apprentice, or jobs that require a high school or equivalent credential

                                                                                        College Bound: College Bound is a free, six-week program with individualized support to explore the possibilities of you attending college.

                                                                                        GED: An Ontario high school equivalent certificate for adults who have not completed high school. Recognized by employers for application to employment, and by educational institutions to apply to a training or educational program.

                                                                                        108 University Avenue East 519-885-0300 ext. 5229 Website View Full Company Profile

                                                                                        We help adults improve their literacy skills in the following ways:

                                                                                        • Free tutoring to adults 18+ years
                                                                                        • Personal assessment to determine students’ individual needs
                                                                                        • Student-tutor matches based on individual needs
                                                                                        • Structured teaching manuals and student workbooks
                                                                                        • Individual student-centred training plan
                                                                                        • One-to-one tutoring
                                                                                        • Small group tutoring
                                                                                        • Computer based learning
                                                                                        • Workplace skills training
                                                                                        • Ongoing support and follow-up
                                                                                        • Childcare and transportation expenses may be available*
                                                                                        300 Victoria St. N., Unit 8 (519) 743-6090 ext. 223 Website View Full Company Profile

                                                                                        We help adults improve their literacy skills in the following ways:

                                                                                        • Free tutoring to adults 18+ years
                                                                                        • Personal assessment to determine students’ individual needs
                                                                                        • Student-tutor matches based on individual needs
                                                                                        • Structured teaching manuals and student workbooks
                                                                                        • Individual student-centred training plan
                                                                                        • One-to-one tutoring
                                                                                        • Small group tutoring
                                                                                        • Computer based learning
                                                                                        • Workplace skills training
                                                                                        • Ongoing support and follow-up
                                                                                        • Childcare and transportation expenses may be available*
                                                                                        40 Ainslie Street South 519-743-6090 Website View Full Company Profile

                                                                                        Help upgrading your reading, writing, math and computer skills needed for work, home, retraining or further education

                                                                                        151 Weber Street South (519) 885-4356 ext. 5223 or 5227 Website View Full Company Profile

                                                                                        Help upgrading your reading, writing, math and computer skills needed for work, home, retraining or further education

                                                                                        60 McDonald Ave (519) 740-3800 Website View Full Company Profile

                                                                                         

                                                                                        Guelph / Wellington County:

                                                                                        Action Read Community Literacy Centre is a non-profit, charitable organization that offers youth and adult programs to upgrade skills towards education, employment, and life goals.

                                                                                        Adult Literacy Programs include:

                                                                                        • One-to-One Tutoring
                                                                                        • Group Learning
                                                                                        • Computer Learning

                                                                                        Modular Courses are short-term and employment focused, offered at various times throughout the year, depending on demand. Examples include:

                                                                                        • Cashier training
                                                                                        • Communication Skills for the Workplace workshop
                                                                                        • Conflict Resolution workshop
                                                                                        • Janitorial training
                                                                                        • Financial Literacy workshop
                                                                                        • Landscaper and Grounds Keeping Worker training
                                                                                        • Materials Handler training
                                                                                        • Receptionist training
                                                                                        • Safe Food Handling training
                                                                                        10 Cork St E Website View Full Company Profile

                                                                                        • Academic Upgrading: provides adult learners with the opportunity to improve their mathematics, communications, science, and computer skills up to college-entry level.
                                                                                        • Academic and Career Entrance (ACE) certificate:
                                                                                          •  Grade 12 equivalency program for adult learners that helps with admission to college post-secondary programs, registration as an apprentice, or jobs that require a high school or equivalent credential
                                                                                        • College Bound: College Bound is a free, six-week program with individualized support to explore the possibilities of you attending college.
                                                                                        • GED:
                                                                                          • an Ontario high school equivalent certificate for adults who have been unable to complete high school
                                                                                          • recognized by employers for application to employment, and by educational institutions to apply to a training or educational program
                                                                                        460 Speedvale Avenue West 519-824-9390 ext. 6172 Website View Full Company Profile

                                                                                        Offers youth and adult programs to upgrade skills towards education, employment, and life goals.

                                                                                        The Wellington County Learning Centre promotes a learner-centered approach to literacy upgrading. This means learners direct their own learning and set their own goals – both long term and short term.

                                                                                        Whether you’re looking to learn something new, trying to get your GED, or upgrade your reading skills, the Learning Centre can help.

                                                                                        207A George Street (519) 848-3462 Website View Full Company Profile

                                                                                        The Skills Upgrading Program is designed to help you build your skills in reading and writing, to move on to employment, high school credits, apprenticeship programs, or post-secondary education such as college programs. We also assist learners with independence goals of learning basic computers or furthering their essential skills for work.

                                                                                        Our program runs from the beginning of September until the end of June with day and evening class times available in most of our locations. We have flexible schedules to meet your needs and goals.

                                                                                        This Employment Ontario program is funded in part by the Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario. It is a FREE program for all learners.

                                                                                        109 Wellington Street South (226) 971-0239 Website View Full Company Profile

                                                                                        The Skills Upgrading Program is designed to help you build your skills in reading and writing, to move on to employment, high school credits, apprenticeship programs, or post-secondary education such as college programs. We also assist learners with independence goals of learning basic computers or furthering their essential skills for work.

                                                                                        Our program runs from the beginning of September until the end of June with day and evening class times available in most of our locations. We have flexible schedules to meet your needs and goals.

                                                                                        This Employment Ontario program is funded in part by the Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario. It is a FREE program for all learners.

                                                                                        1428 Gordon Street (519) 836-7280 ext. 624 Website View Full Company Profile

                                                                                        The Skills Upgrading Program is designed to help you build your skills in reading and writing, to move on to employment, high school credits, apprenticeship programs, or post-secondary education such as college programs. We also assist learners with independence goals of learning basic computers or furthering their essential skills for work.

                                                                                        Our program runs from the beginning of September until the end of June with day and evening class times available in most of our locations. We have flexible schedules to meet your needs and goals.

                                                                                        This Employment Ontario program is funded in part by the Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario. It is a FREE program for all learners.

                                                                                        405B Sligo Road East 519-261-0720 Website View Full Company Profile

                                                                                        The Skills Upgrading Program is designed to help you build your skills in reading and writing, to move on to employment, high school credits, apprenticeship programs, or post-secondary education such as college programs. We also assist learners with independence goals of learning basic computers or furthering their essential skills for work.

                                                                                        Our program runs from the beginning of September until the end of June with day and evening class times available in most of our locations. We have flexible schedules to meet your needs and goals.

                                                                                        This Employment Ontario program is funded in part by the Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario. It is a FREE program for all learners.

                                                                                        675 Victoria Terrace 519-400-0335 Website View Full Company Profile

                                                                                         

                                                                                        Dufferin County:

                                                                                        Academic and Career Preparation (ACP):

                                                                                        • free, goal-directed, flexible and supportive academic upgrading program
                                                                                        • bring your reading, writing, math and other essential skills up to a high-school level

                                                                                        OntarioLearn academic upgrading (free):

                                                                                        • Learn to Learn: develop necessary academic, personal, and computer skills to be successful in online learning
                                                                                        • ACE online courses: Grade 12 Equivalency Credits (English, Math, Chemistry, Computers, Biology, and more)
                                                                                        22 Centennial Rd (519) 940-0331 Website View Full Company Profile

                                                                                        The Skills Upgrading Program is designed to help you build your skills in reading and writing, to move on to employment, high school credits, apprenticeship programs, or post-secondary education such as college programs. We also assist learners with independence goals of learning basic computers or furthering their essential skills for work.

                                                                                        Our program runs from the beginning of September until the end of June with day and evening class times available in most of our locations. We have flexible schedules to meet your needs and goals.

                                                                                        This Employment Ontario program is funded in part by the Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario. It is a FREE program for all learners.

                                                                                        167 Centre St Entrance E 519-400-0335 Website View Full Company Profile

                                                                                        The Skills Upgrading Program is designed to help you build your skills in reading and writing, to move on to employment, high school credits, apprenticeship programs, or post-secondary education such as college programs. We also assist learners with independence goals of learning basic computers or furthering their essential skills for work.

                                                                                        Our program runs from the beginning of September until the end of June with day and evening class times available in most of our locations. We have flexible schedules to meet your needs and goals.

                                                                                        This Employment Ontario program is funded in part by the Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario. It is a FREE program for all learners.

                                                                                        40 Amelia St Portable #1 519-938-9447 Website View Full Company Profile

                                                                                          There are several options for upgrading when you are an adult and your goal is Apprenticeship:

                                                                                          OSSD – Ontario Secondary School Diploma

                                                                                          • Earn or upgrade high school credits.

                                                                                          GED – General Educational Development

                                                                                          • A GED consists of four subject tests, that once passed, earn you a high school equivalency credential. The four subjects are:
                                                                                            • language arts
                                                                                            • math
                                                                                            • social studies; and
                                                                                            • science.

                                                                                          Academic / Career preparation programs

                                                                                          • available at public colleges such as Conestoga College or Georgian College
                                                                                          • equivalency programs for adult learners that help with:
                                                                                            • registration as an apprentice
                                                                                            • admission to college post-secondary programs; or
                                                                                            • jobs that require a high school or equivalent credential

                                                                                          Pre-Apprenticeship programs

                                                                                          If you’re interested in working in a trade but don’t have the skills or experience to get a job as an apprentice, you may be eligible for free Pre-Apprenticeship training. Program options vary from location to location.

                                                                                          To learn whether there are any Pre-Apprenticeship programs available in your area, check with your local public college or Employment Ontario Service Provider.

                                                                                          Waterloo Region:

                                                                                          Core Essentials – Skills for Success is a free program that offers:

                                                                                          • a comfortable classroom environment
                                                                                          • flexible daytime hours
                                                                                          • instruction tailored towards your next steps:
                                                                                            • Secondary School Credit courses
                                                                                            • employment; or
                                                                                            • volunteer work

                                                                                          Secondary School credits are available to take towards your Ontario Secondary School Diploma.

                                                                                          Career-specific programs may also be available, such as:

                                                                                          Cambridge residents are welcome to receive in-person assistance at our Kitchener location (80 Young St.). Upgrading programs are also offered online in either live or self-paced formats.

                                                                                          (519) 745-1201 ext. 238 Website View Full Company Profile

                                                                                          “Core Essentials – Skills for Success” is a free program that offers a comfortable classroom environment, flexible daytime hours, and instruction tailored towards your next steps:

                                                                                          80 Young Street (519) 745-1201 ext. 238 Website View Full Company Profile

                                                                                          Night School offers Grade 11 and Grade 12 credit courses in English, science, math, social science and more.

                                                                                          Continuing Education provides programs such as:

                                                                                          • Essential Skills Upgrading (ESU)
                                                                                          • Summer School; and
                                                                                          • International and Indigenous Languages School
                                                                                          151 Weber Street South (519) 885-0800 Website View Full Company Profile

                                                                                          • Academic Upgrading: provides adult learners with the opportunity to improve their mathematics, communications, science, and computer skills up to college-entry level.
                                                                                          • Academic and Career Entrance (ACE) certificate:
                                                                                            •  Grade 12 equivalency program for adult learners that helps with admission to college post-secondary programs, registration as an apprentice, or jobs that require a high school or equivalent credential
                                                                                          • College Bound: College Bound is a free, six-week program with individualized support to explore the possibilities of you attending college.
                                                                                          • GED:
                                                                                            • an Ontario high school equivalent certificate for adults who have been unable to complete high school
                                                                                            • recognized by employers for application to employment, and by educational institutions to apply to a training or educational program
                                                                                          150 Main Street, Suite 402 519-623-4890 ext. 7501 Website View Full Company Profile

                                                                                          • Academic Upgrading: provides adult learners with the opportunity to improve their mathematics, communications, science, and computer skills up to college-entry level.
                                                                                          • Academic and Career Entrance (ACE) certificate:
                                                                                            •  Grade 12 equivalency program for adult learners that helps with admission to college post-secondary programs, registration as an apprentice, or jobs that require a high school or equivalent credential
                                                                                          • College Bound: College Bound is a free, six-week program with individualized support to explore the possibilities of you attending college.
                                                                                          • GED:
                                                                                            • an Ontario high school equivalent certificate for adults who have been unable to complete high school
                                                                                            • recognized by employers for application to employment, and by educational institutions to apply to a training or educational program
                                                                                          299 Doon Valley Drive (519) 748-5220 ext. 3681 Website View Full Company Profile

                                                                                          Academic Upgrading: provides adult learners with the opportunity to improve their mathematics, communications, science, and computer skills up to college-entry level.

                                                                                          Academic and Career Entrance (ACE) certificate: Grade 12 equivalency program for adult learners that helps with admission to college post-secondary programs, registration as an apprentice, or jobs that require a high school or equivalent credential

                                                                                          College Bound: College Bound is a free, six-week program with individualized support to explore the possibilities of you attending college.

                                                                                          GED: An Ontario high school equivalent certificate for adults who have not completed high school. Recognized by employers for application to employment, and by educational institutions to apply to a training or educational program.

                                                                                          108 University Avenue East 519-885-0300 ext. 5229 Website View Full Company Profile

                                                                                           

                                                                                          Guelph / Wellington County:

                                                                                          Action Read Community Literacy Centre is a non-profit, charitable organization that offers youth and adult programs to upgrade skills towards education, employment, and life goals.

                                                                                          Adult Literacy Programs include:

                                                                                          • One-to-One Tutoring
                                                                                          • Group Learning
                                                                                          • Computer Learning

                                                                                          Modular Courses are short-term and employment focused, offered at various times throughout the year, depending on demand. Examples include:

                                                                                          • Cashier training
                                                                                          • Communication Skills for the Workplace workshop
                                                                                          • Conflict Resolution workshop
                                                                                          • Janitorial training
                                                                                          • Financial Literacy workshop
                                                                                          • Landscaper and Grounds Keeping Worker training
                                                                                          • Materials Handler training
                                                                                          • Receptionist training
                                                                                          • Safe Food Handling training
                                                                                          10 Cork St E Website View Full Company Profile

                                                                                          • Academic Upgrading: provides adult learners with the opportunity to improve their mathematics, communications, science, and computer skills up to college-entry level.
                                                                                          • Academic and Career Entrance (ACE) certificate:
                                                                                            •  Grade 12 equivalency program for adult learners that helps with admission to college post-secondary programs, registration as an apprentice, or jobs that require a high school or equivalent credential
                                                                                          • College Bound: College Bound is a free, six-week program with individualized support to explore the possibilities of you attending college.
                                                                                          • GED:
                                                                                            • an Ontario high school equivalent certificate for adults who have been unable to complete high school
                                                                                            • recognized by employers for application to employment, and by educational institutions to apply to a training or educational program
                                                                                          460 Speedvale Avenue West 519-824-9390 ext. 6172 Website View Full Company Profile

                                                                                          Offers youth and adult programs to upgrade skills towards education, employment, and life goals.

                                                                                          The Wellington County Learning Centre promotes a learner-centered approach to literacy upgrading. This means learners direct their own learning and set their own goals – both long term and short term.

                                                                                          Whether you’re looking to learn something new, trying to get your GED, or upgrade your reading skills, the Learning Centre can help.

                                                                                          207A George Street (519) 848-3462 Website View Full Company Profile

                                                                                          The Skills Upgrading Program is designed to help you build your skills in reading and writing, to move on to employment, high school credits, apprenticeship programs, or post-secondary education such as college programs. We also assist learners with independence goals of learning basic computers or furthering their essential skills for work.

                                                                                          Our program runs from the beginning of September until the end of June with day and evening class times available in most of our locations. We have flexible schedules to meet your needs and goals.

                                                                                          This Employment Ontario program is funded in part by the Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario. It is a FREE program for all learners.

                                                                                          109 Wellington Street South (226) 971-0239 Website View Full Company Profile

                                                                                          The Skills Upgrading Program is designed to help you build your skills in reading and writing, to move on to employment, high school credits, apprenticeship programs, or post-secondary education such as college programs. We also assist learners with independence goals of learning basic computers or furthering their essential skills for work.

                                                                                          Our program runs from the beginning of September until the end of June with day and evening class times available in most of our locations. We have flexible schedules to meet your needs and goals.

                                                                                          This Employment Ontario program is funded in part by the Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario. It is a FREE program for all learners.

                                                                                          1428 Gordon Street (519) 836-7280 ext. 624 Website View Full Company Profile

                                                                                          The Skills Upgrading Program is designed to help you build your skills in reading and writing, to move on to employment, high school credits, apprenticeship programs, or post-secondary education such as college programs. We also assist learners with independence goals of learning basic computers or furthering their essential skills for work.

                                                                                          Our program runs from the beginning of September until the end of June with day and evening class times available in most of our locations. We have flexible schedules to meet your needs and goals.

                                                                                          This Employment Ontario program is funded in part by the Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario. It is a FREE program for all learners.

                                                                                          405B Sligo Road East 519-261-0720 Website View Full Company Profile

                                                                                          The Skills Upgrading Program is designed to help you build your skills in reading and writing, to move on to employment, high school credits, apprenticeship programs, or post-secondary education such as college programs. We also assist learners with independence goals of learning basic computers or furthering their essential skills for work.

                                                                                          Our program runs from the beginning of September until the end of June with day and evening class times available in most of our locations. We have flexible schedules to meet your needs and goals.

                                                                                          This Employment Ontario program is funded in part by the Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario. It is a FREE program for all learners.

                                                                                          675 Victoria Terrace 519-400-0335 Website View Full Company Profile

                                                                                           

                                                                                          Dufferin County:

                                                                                          Academic and Career Preparation (ACP):

                                                                                          • free, goal-directed, flexible and supportive academic upgrading program
                                                                                          • bring your reading, writing, math and other essential skills up to a high-school level

                                                                                          OntarioLearn academic upgrading (free):

                                                                                          • Learn to Learn: develop necessary academic, personal, and computer skills to be successful in online learning
                                                                                          • ACE online courses: Grade 12 Equivalency Credits (English, Math, Chemistry, Computers, Biology, and more)
                                                                                          22 Centennial Rd (519) 940-0331 Website View Full Company Profile

                                                                                          The Skills Upgrading Program is designed to help you build your skills in reading and writing, to move on to employment, high school credits, apprenticeship programs, or post-secondary education such as college programs. We also assist learners with independence goals of learning basic computers or furthering their essential skills for work.

                                                                                          Our program runs from the beginning of September until the end of June with day and evening class times available in most of our locations. We have flexible schedules to meet your needs and goals.

                                                                                          This Employment Ontario program is funded in part by the Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario. It is a FREE program for all learners.

                                                                                          167 Centre St Entrance E 519-400-0335 Website View Full Company Profile

                                                                                          The Skills Upgrading Program is designed to help you build your skills in reading and writing, to move on to employment, high school credits, apprenticeship programs, or post-secondary education such as college programs. We also assist learners with independence goals of learning basic computers or furthering their essential skills for work.

                                                                                          Our program runs from the beginning of September until the end of June with day and evening class times available in most of our locations. We have flexible schedules to meet your needs and goals.

                                                                                          This Employment Ontario program is funded in part by the Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario. It is a FREE program for all learners.

                                                                                          40 Amelia St Portable #1 519-938-9447 Website View Full Company Profile

                                                                                            There are several options for upgrading when you are an adult and your goal is to go to College or University:

                                                                                            OSSD – Ontario Secondary School Diploma

                                                                                            • Earn or upgrade high school credits.

                                                                                            GED – General Educational Development

                                                                                            • A GED consists of four subject tests, that once passed, earn you a high school equivalency credential. The four subjects are:
                                                                                              • language arts
                                                                                              • math
                                                                                              • social studies; and
                                                                                              • science.
                                                                                            • Some college or university programs may not accept a GED for admission, so check with the college or university’s Admissions Department to discover the best option for you.

                                                                                            Academic / Career preparation programs

                                                                                            • available at public colleges such as Conestoga College or Georgian College
                                                                                            • equivalency programs for adult learners that help with:
                                                                                              • admission to college post-secondary programs
                                                                                              • registration as an apprentice; or
                                                                                              • jobs that require a high school or equivalent credential

                                                                                            Waterloo Region:

                                                                                            Core Essentials – Skills for Success is a free program that offers:

                                                                                            • a comfortable classroom environment
                                                                                            • flexible daytime hours
                                                                                            • instruction tailored towards your next steps:
                                                                                              • Secondary School Credit courses
                                                                                              • employment; or
                                                                                              • volunteer work

                                                                                            Secondary School credits are available to take towards your Ontario Secondary School Diploma.

                                                                                            Career-specific programs may also be available, such as:

                                                                                            Cambridge residents are welcome to receive in-person assistance at our Kitchener location (80 Young St.). Upgrading programs are also offered online in either live or self-paced formats.

                                                                                            (519) 745-1201 ext. 238 Website View Full Company Profile

                                                                                            “Core Essentials – Skills for Success” is a free program that offers a comfortable classroom environment, flexible daytime hours, and instruction tailored towards your next steps:

                                                                                            80 Young Street (519) 745-1201 ext. 238 Website View Full Company Profile

                                                                                            Night School offers Grade 11 and Grade 12 credit courses in English, science, math, social science and more.

                                                                                            Continuing Education provides programs such as:

                                                                                            • Essential Skills Upgrading (ESU)
                                                                                            • Summer School; and
                                                                                            • International and Indigenous Languages School
                                                                                            151 Weber Street South (519) 885-0800 Website View Full Company Profile

                                                                                            • Academic Upgrading: provides adult learners with the opportunity to improve their mathematics, communications, science, and computer skills up to college-entry level.
                                                                                            • Academic and Career Entrance (ACE) certificate:
                                                                                              •  Grade 12 equivalency program for adult learners that helps with admission to college post-secondary programs, registration as an apprentice, or jobs that require a high school or equivalent credential
                                                                                            • College Bound: College Bound is a free, six-week program with individualized support to explore the possibilities of you attending college.
                                                                                            • GED:
                                                                                              • an Ontario high school equivalent certificate for adults who have been unable to complete high school
                                                                                              • recognized by employers for application to employment, and by educational institutions to apply to a training or educational program
                                                                                            150 Main Street, Suite 402 519-623-4890 ext. 7501 Website View Full Company Profile

                                                                                            • Academic Upgrading: provides adult learners with the opportunity to improve their mathematics, communications, science, and computer skills up to college-entry level.
                                                                                            • Academic and Career Entrance (ACE) certificate:
                                                                                              •  Grade 12 equivalency program for adult learners that helps with admission to college post-secondary programs, registration as an apprentice, or jobs that require a high school or equivalent credential
                                                                                            • College Bound: College Bound is a free, six-week program with individualized support to explore the possibilities of you attending college.
                                                                                            • GED:
                                                                                              • an Ontario high school equivalent certificate for adults who have been unable to complete high school
                                                                                              • recognized by employers for application to employment, and by educational institutions to apply to a training or educational program
                                                                                            299 Doon Valley Drive (519) 748-5220 ext. 3681 Website View Full Company Profile

                                                                                            Academic Upgrading: provides adult learners with the opportunity to improve their mathematics, communications, science, and computer skills up to college-entry level.

                                                                                            Academic and Career Entrance (ACE) certificate: Grade 12 equivalency program for adult learners that helps with admission to college post-secondary programs, registration as an apprentice, or jobs that require a high school or equivalent credential

                                                                                            College Bound: College Bound is a free, six-week program with individualized support to explore the possibilities of you attending college.

                                                                                            GED: An Ontario high school equivalent certificate for adults who have not completed high school. Recognized by employers for application to employment, and by educational institutions to apply to a training or educational program.

                                                                                            108 University Avenue East 519-885-0300 ext. 5229 Website View Full Company Profile

                                                                                             

                                                                                            Guelph / Wellington County:

                                                                                            Action Read Community Literacy Centre is a non-profit, charitable organization that offers youth and adult programs to upgrade skills towards education, employment, and life goals.

                                                                                            Adult Literacy Programs include:

                                                                                            • One-to-One Tutoring
                                                                                            • Group Learning
                                                                                            • Computer Learning

                                                                                            Modular Courses are short-term and employment focused, offered at various times throughout the year, depending on demand. Examples include:

                                                                                            • Cashier training
                                                                                            • Communication Skills for the Workplace workshop
                                                                                            • Conflict Resolution workshop
                                                                                            • Janitorial training
                                                                                            • Financial Literacy workshop
                                                                                            • Landscaper and Grounds Keeping Worker training
                                                                                            • Materials Handler training
                                                                                            • Receptionist training
                                                                                            • Safe Food Handling training
                                                                                            10 Cork St E Website View Full Company Profile

                                                                                            • Academic Upgrading: provides adult learners with the opportunity to improve their mathematics, communications, science, and computer skills up to college-entry level.
                                                                                            • Academic and Career Entrance (ACE) certificate:
                                                                                              •  Grade 12 equivalency program for adult learners that helps with admission to college post-secondary programs, registration as an apprentice, or jobs that require a high school or equivalent credential
                                                                                            • College Bound: College Bound is a free, six-week program with individualized support to explore the possibilities of you attending college.
                                                                                            • GED:
                                                                                              • an Ontario high school equivalent certificate for adults who have been unable to complete high school
                                                                                              • recognized by employers for application to employment, and by educational institutions to apply to a training or educational program
                                                                                            460 Speedvale Avenue West 519-824-9390 ext. 6172 Website View Full Company Profile

                                                                                            Offers youth and adult programs to upgrade skills towards education, employment, and life goals.

                                                                                            The Wellington County Learning Centre promotes a learner-centered approach to literacy upgrading. This means learners direct their own learning and set their own goals – both long term and short term.

                                                                                            Whether you’re looking to learn something new, trying to get your GED, or upgrade your reading skills, the Learning Centre can help.

                                                                                            207A George Street (519) 848-3462 Website View Full Company Profile

                                                                                            The Skills Upgrading Program is designed to help you build your skills in reading and writing, to move on to employment, high school credits, apprenticeship programs, or post-secondary education such as college programs. We also assist learners with independence goals of learning basic computers or furthering their essential skills for work.

                                                                                            Our program runs from the beginning of September until the end of June with day and evening class times available in most of our locations. We have flexible schedules to meet your needs and goals.

                                                                                            This Employment Ontario program is funded in part by the Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario. It is a FREE program for all learners.

                                                                                            109 Wellington Street South (226) 971-0239 Website View Full Company Profile

                                                                                            The Skills Upgrading Program is designed to help you build your skills in reading and writing, to move on to employment, high school credits, apprenticeship programs, or post-secondary education such as college programs. We also assist learners with independence goals of learning basic computers or furthering their essential skills for work.

                                                                                            Our program runs from the beginning of September until the end of June with day and evening class times available in most of our locations. We have flexible schedules to meet your needs and goals.

                                                                                            This Employment Ontario program is funded in part by the Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario. It is a FREE program for all learners.

                                                                                            1428 Gordon Street (519) 836-7280 ext. 624 Website View Full Company Profile

                                                                                            The Skills Upgrading Program is designed to help you build your skills in reading and writing, to move on to employment, high school credits, apprenticeship programs, or post-secondary education such as college programs. We also assist learners with independence goals of learning basic computers or furthering their essential skills for work.

                                                                                            Our program runs from the beginning of September until the end of June with day and evening class times available in most of our locations. We have flexible schedules to meet your needs and goals.

                                                                                            This Employment Ontario program is funded in part by the Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario. It is a FREE program for all learners.

                                                                                            405B Sligo Road East 519-261-0720 Website View Full Company Profile

                                                                                            The Skills Upgrading Program is designed to help you build your skills in reading and writing, to move on to employment, high school credits, apprenticeship programs, or post-secondary education such as college programs. We also assist learners with independence goals of learning basic computers or furthering their essential skills for work.

                                                                                            Our program runs from the beginning of September until the end of June with day and evening class times available in most of our locations. We have flexible schedules to meet your needs and goals.

                                                                                            This Employment Ontario program is funded in part by the Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario. It is a FREE program for all learners.

                                                                                            675 Victoria Terrace 519-400-0335 Website View Full Company Profile

                                                                                             

                                                                                            Dufferin County:

                                                                                            Academic and Career Preparation (ACP):

                                                                                            • free, goal-directed, flexible and supportive academic upgrading program
                                                                                            • bring your reading, writing, math and other essential skills up to a high-school level

                                                                                            OntarioLearn academic upgrading (free):

                                                                                            • Learn to Learn: develop necessary academic, personal, and computer skills to be successful in online learning
                                                                                            • ACE online courses: Grade 12 Equivalency Credits (English, Math, Chemistry, Computers, Biology, and more)
                                                                                            22 Centennial Rd (519) 940-0331 Website View Full Company Profile

                                                                                            The Skills Upgrading Program is designed to help you build your skills in reading and writing, to move on to employment, high school credits, apprenticeship programs, or post-secondary education such as college programs. We also assist learners with independence goals of learning basic computers or furthering their essential skills for work.

                                                                                            Our program runs from the beginning of September until the end of June with day and evening class times available in most of our locations. We have flexible schedules to meet your needs and goals.

                                                                                            This Employment Ontario program is funded in part by the Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario. It is a FREE program for all learners.

                                                                                            167 Centre St Entrance E 519-400-0335 Website View Full Company Profile

                                                                                            The Skills Upgrading Program is designed to help you build your skills in reading and writing, to move on to employment, high school credits, apprenticeship programs, or post-secondary education such as college programs. We also assist learners with independence goals of learning basic computers or furthering their essential skills for work.

                                                                                            Our program runs from the beginning of September until the end of June with day and evening class times available in most of our locations. We have flexible schedules to meet your needs and goals.

                                                                                            This Employment Ontario program is funded in part by the Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario. It is a FREE program for all learners.

                                                                                            40 Amelia St Portable #1 519-938-9447 Website View Full Company Profile

                                                                                              Micro-credentials:

                                                                                              • are rapid training programs offered by postsecondary education institutions
                                                                                              • help people retrain and upgrade their skills to find new employment
                                                                                              • take less time to complete than degrees or diplomas
                                                                                              • are often created with input from business sectors, so the skills being taught match employer needs
                                                                                              • may be offered online, hybrid, or in-person

                                                                                              Find micro-credentials across Ontario here: https://microlearnontario.ca/

                                                                                              For a list of OSAP-eligible micro-credentials, visit: https://osap.gov.on.ca/SchoolSearchWeb/search/eligible_schools.xhtml

                                                                                              Once you have selected a micro-credential you’d like to take, register with the school directly.

                                                                                               

                                                                                                  There are 23 compulsory trades and 121 non-compulsory trades in Ontario.

                                                                                                  • Compulsory trade: It is a legal requirement to be a registered apprentice or licensed journeyperson to do this work.
                                                                                                  • Non-Compulsory trade: You do not need to be a registered apprentice or a certified journeyperson to do this work. Some of these trades offer certification, which shows proof of your level of skill or knowledge.

                                                                                                  There are multiple ways to begin an apprenticeship:

                                                                                                  1. First job search and find an employer willing to train you, then take a mix of on-the-job and classroom training:
                                                                                                    • Your employer would help you register as an apprentice, through the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development (MLITSD)
                                                                                                    • You will need your apprenticeship registration information to sign up for your classroom training.
                                                                                                  2. First take some classroom training, then find an employer:
                                                                                                    • The training you take now could exempt you from taking some classroom training parts later when you are working with your employer.

                                                                                                  Learn more:

                                                                                                  • Skilled Trades Ontario: List of all the skilled trades in Ontario, plus training standards and exam information
                                                                                                  • Government of Ontario: general information on the trades, and how to get started
                                                                                                  • Red Seal: A Red Seal endorsement is a seal on your provincial or territorial trade certificate. It is optional to take the Red Seal exam. It shows that you have the knowledge and skills necessary to practice your trade across all provinces in Canada. Not all trades offer a Red Seal exam.
                                                                                                  • Apprenticesearch: Site that connects Employers and Apprentices across Canada
                                                                                                  • Build Your Skills / SkillPlan: free career exploration and skills-building platform for the Construction Trades

                                                                                                  For more help, connect either with your school guidance counsellor or an Employment Services provider (for non-students).

                                                                                                    • Honour the Work: Connects Canadians with interactive resources, training programs, scholarship info, educational material, and more!
                                                                                                    • Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP): Taken in high school: Consider careers in the skilled trades through a combination of on-the-job training and classroom learning
                                                                                                    • Pre-Apprenticeship training programs: Connect with an Employment Services provider to learn if there are any Pre-Apprenticeship programs available near you. These programs are free for eligible participants.
                                                                                                    • Public Colleges > Professions & Trades
                                                                                                      • Some programs at the public colleges are designated only for people who have a registered apprenticeship in place with an employer. Others may be available to take without being registered as an apprentice.
                                                                                                    • Private Career Colleges: some private career colleges offer trades-specific training.
                                                                                                    • Build Your Skills: Free online career exploration and skills-building platform to prepare you for Construction Trades

                                                                                                      Free help with

                                                                                                      • Career planning
                                                                                                      • Resumes
                                                                                                      • Job search
                                                                                                      • Interview skills
                                                                                                      • Connections to other job-related programs and supports.

                                                                                                      Able to help

                                                                                                      • Canadian Citizens
                                                                                                      • Permanent Residents
                                                                                                      • people that have been granted Refugee Status.

                                                                                                      Note: Employment Services through Employment Ontario service providers are not available to people enrolled as a full-time student. Most students will have access to career services offered via their school. You can connect with Employment Services when school career services are no longer available to you.

                                                                                                      View Employment Services locations on a map (will open in a new tab)

                                                                                                        Some workplaces are unionized, some are not, and not all trades have unions!

                                                                                                        Trade unions

                                                                                                        • have information and advice about their trade
                                                                                                        • are a way to meet people who work in that skilled trade
                                                                                                        • may offer training or grant programs

                                                                                                        There are many trades unions – too many to list here! Try doing an online search for “union” plus the trade you are interested in. For more help, connect with your school guidance counsellor or Employment Services provider.

                                                                                                          You can find volunteering roles at some

                                                                                                          • not-for-profit organizations
                                                                                                          • charities
                                                                                                          • faith groups
                                                                                                          • or through your city/town’s main government office.

                                                                                                          Most for-profit companies do not have volunteer positions, often for legal or company policy reasons.

                                                                                                          Not all organizations post their volunteer positions online, so feel free to ask them directly if you see a place where you would like to volunteer. You can also find volunteer opportunities using the sites below:

                                                                                                          In Dufferin County:

                                                                                                          In Waterloo Region:

                                                                                                          In Guelph/Wellington County:

                                                                                                          Canada-wide:

                                                                                                          There are many benefits to volunteering!

                                                                                                          • Make a positive impact in your community
                                                                                                          • Meet new people and feel connected
                                                                                                          • Learn and practice new skills
                                                                                                          • Gain confidence
                                                                                                          • Helps your job search:
                                                                                                            • Gain (unpaid) work experience – great for a resume if you have no recent work experience, or if you are new to Canadian workplace culture
                                                                                                            • Networking – increase the number of people you are connected to, which can increase your chance to learn of employment opportunities
                                                                                                            • Potential to gain a Reference from your volunteer coordinator / supervisor

                                                                                                            This Employment Ontario project is funded in part by the Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario.

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