Adult Learning



Do you need help with:

Do you help adult learners?

Reading, Writing and Math

The Literacy and Basic Skills program helps adults whose skills fall below the Grade 9 level. You need to speak English or French to take part.

You can take classroom courses or learn online. Programs are free.

To find a class near you, call Employment Ontario (1-800-387-5656) or search the Employment Ontario website for "Literacy and Basic Skills."

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Upgrading Your Skills

The Academic Upgrading program helps people prepare for college or technical training. It serves adults who do not have a high school diploma but whose skills are above the Grade 9 level.

You need to speak English or French to take part.

For more information or to find programs in your area, call Employment Ontario (1-800-387-5656) or search the Employment Ontario website for "Literacy and Basic Skills."

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Getting Your High School Diploma

Many school boards offer courses to help you get your high school diploma (the Ontario Secondary School Diploma).

School boards may offer classes during the day or at night to make it easier for working adults. These may include distance learning, or teacher-led online courses.

Contact your local school board if you need help picking courses or have questions.

The Independent Learning Centre offers many credit courses to do at home.

Services are free. To find classes in your area, call Employment Ontario (1-800-387-5656), TTY (telephone service for the deaf) 1-866-533-6339. You can also search under "Adult High School Credit Programs" on the Employment Ontario website.

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Learning English or French as a Second Language

If you are new to Ontario, you can learn English or French as a beginner or at higher levels. You can also get special language training that can help you:

  • Learn about Canada and Ontario
  • Learn what you need to pass the Citizenship Test
  • Prepare for language tests, such as the Test of English as a Foreign Language
  • Improve your language skills for specific jobs.

To learn more or to find classes in your area, visit Learn English or French.

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Getting ready to work in Ontario (for newcomers)

You can get help if you were trained outside of Canada and you want to work in your trade or profession.

Training programs called Bridge Training help people who were trained outside of Canada move quickly into the labour market. Each program is different, but many include:

  • An assessment of your education and skills
  • Work placement
  • Language training for your trade or profession
  • Learning plans to identify any added training you may need
  • Preparation for license or certification exams.

Ontario Bridging Participant Assistance Program – Frequently Asked Questions

To learn more about bridge training programs, visit Working in Ontario.

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