ESL Program
Supporting English language development for academic success in the OSSD pathway.
Building Academic English Foundations
The ESL program is designed to support students in developing the English language skills required for success in Ontario secondary school courses.
Students progress through a series of levels that build listening, speaking, reading, and writing abilities while gradually adapting to academic expectations.
As students advance, they gain the confidence and language proficiency needed to transition into mainstream academic courses.
ESL Course Pathway
Students progress through levels based on their English proficiency.
ESLAO - ESL Level 1
Prerequisite: None
This course builds on students’ previous education and language knowledge to introduce them to the English language and help them adjust to the diversity in their new environment. Students will use beginning English language skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing for every- day and essential academic purposes. They will engage in short conversations using basic English language structures and simple sentence patterns; read short adapted texts; and write phrases and short sentences. The course also provides students with the knowledge and skills they need to begin to adapt to their new lives in Canada.
ESLBO - ESL Level 2
Prerequisite: ESLAO or equivalent
This course extends students’ listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills in English for every- day and academic purposes. Students will participate in conversations in structured situations on a variety of familiar and new topics; read a variety of texts designed or adapted for English language learners; expand their knowledge of English grammatical structures and sentence patterns; and link English sentences to compose paragraphs. The course also supports students’ continuing adaptation to the Ontario school system by expanding their knowledge of diversity in their new province and country.
ESLCO - ESL Level 3
Prerequisite: ESLBO or equivalent
This course further extends students’ skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing in English for a variety of everyday and academic purposes. Students will make short classroom oral presentations; read a variety of adapted and original texts in English; and write using a variety of text forms. As well, students will expand their academic vocabulary and their study skills to facilitate their transition to the mainstream school program. This course also introduces students to the rights and responsibilities inherent in Canadian citizenship, and to a variety of current Canadian issues.
ESLDO - ESL Level 4
Prerequisite: ESLCO or equivalent
This course prepares students to use English with increasing fluency and accuracy in classroom and social situations and to participate in Canadian society as informed citizens. Students will develop the oral-presentation, reading, and writing skills required for success in all school subjects. They will extend listening and speaking skills through participation in discussions and seminars; study and interpret a variety of grade-level texts; write narratives, articles, and summaries in English; and respond critically to a variety of print and media texts.
ESLEO - ESL Level 5
Prerequisite: ESLDO or equivalent
This course provides students with the skills and strategies they need to make the transition to college and university preparation courses in English and other secondary school disciplines. Students will be encouraged to develop independence in a range of academic tasks. They will participate in debates and lead classroom workshops; read and interpret literary works and academic texts; write essays, narratives, and reports; and apply a range of learning strategies and research skills effectively. Students will further develop their ability to respond critically to print and media texts.
Transition to Mainstream Courses
After completing the ESL pathway, students transition into mainstream English courses such as ENG2D and ENG3U.
This ensures students are fully prepared to succeed academically and continue toward university pathways.
English Level Assessment
Students begin with an English assessment to determine their appropriate starting level within the ESL pathway.
This ensures personalized placement and efficient progression toward academic readiness.
Typical ESL Progression Timeline
Level 1-2
Basic Communication
Level 3
Academic Foundation
Level 4-5
Transition to OSSD courses
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to complete ESL?
The duration depends on the student’s starting level. Most students progress through levels within 6–12 months.
Can students take ESL and OSSD courses at the same time?
Yes. Depending on their level, students may begin taking selected academic courses alongside ESL.
Will ESL affect university applications?
No. ESL supports students in reaching the level required for university-preparatory courses.
Start Your ESL Journey
Contact us to assess your English level and begin your personalized ESL pathway.