LINC: Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada

Are you an immigrant or refugee in Canada? Do you want to learn English? Do you want to learn about Canadian culture? Do you want to mix with other newcomers and make friends?

All of our English classes are based on real world English skills that students need to use in the community, at work, or to take other courses to further their education.  Our classes and curriculum include guest speakers from the community and occasional tours & field trips to local places to become more familiar with Duncan and the surrounding area. Students can form new friendships with other students from around the world. Classes are led by certified instructors and are supported by qualified volunteers, ensuring a low student-to-teacher ratio and more opportunities for students to receive individual support.Classes are free for all qualified permanent resident and refugee status immigrants. Visitors will need to pay a fee.Ongoing enrollment! Must be registered to attend! Please phone, drop in or email settlement@cis-iwc.org to ask about enrollment and assessment.Can’t attend LINC classes in person? Contact settlement@cis-iwc.org to find out about LINC Home Study.  Please click here for more information!

The Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) program assists newcomers to build English skills in listening, speaking, reading and writing. We have enjoyed a busy year with sixty students participating in the 4 classes. Guest speakers and field trips enriched the classroom experience and gave the students authentic opportunities to practice English, and build community connections. Guest speakers and field trips included the Duncan Fire Hall, Totem tour, RCMP, Library, Royal Bank, Global Employment Services, RentReady, Emergency Preparedness and more. A highlight of the year was a full day bus trip to the legislature and B.C. Royal Museum in Victoria.Sincere thanks go to the LINC volunteers including Pip Woodcock, Gary Greenstein, Aaron Livingstone, David McCormick, Elena Geneau, Helen Winfield, and Richard Neftin. They are an integral part of the LINC team. Their patience, kindness and enthusiasm are greatly appreciated. Thanks also to Global Vocational Services for regular use of a classroom, and to Island Bagel and the Canadian Cancer Society for offering meeting rooms to accommodate our facility needs.Check out the events calendar for updated class schedules.