Occupation-specific language training helps Canadian newcomers prepare for careers
July 24, 2015
Help is here for new Canadian residents who need language and communication skills to succeed in the labour market. Specialized training is being offered by Georgian College this fall at the Barrie Campus.
Occupation-Specific Language Training (OSLT) is a free program that teaches language and communication skills specific to certain sectors and occupations. OSLT is funded by Citizenship and Immigration Canada. Georgian is offering two courses beginning in September – one for those with experience in technology, the other for those with experience in business.
“OSLT is for those who are internationally trained or have previous work experience in their field but are experiencing communication barriers while trying to find work in Canada,” says Pat Whittington, Government and Employment Programs.
Students practise dialogue and communication tasks commonly performed in their field to learn the specific language and communication skills necessary to build a successful career in their field.
Whittington says past program participants have increased confidence in spoken English and knowledge of workplace culture, which has helped them in interviews and networking situations.
Participants must be permanent residents or protected persons and have English skills at an intermediate level (Canadian Language Benchmarks 6 to 8) in at least one language skill area. They must also have education, training or experience in specific occupations or industries.
The technology course runs Sept. 8 to Dec. 20. Participants meet Tuesday evenings in class; the remaining coursework is completed online. This course is for those with education, training or experience in architectural, engineering, environmental or information technology.
The general business course runs Sept. 21 to Feb. 18, 2016. Participants meet Monday and Thursday evenings. This course is for those with education, training or experience in running their own business, sales and marketing, accounting or finance, hospitality or project management.
Two free information sessions are planned: Wednesday, Aug. 5 and Monday, Aug. 24 – both at 7 p.m. For details, email oslt@georgiancollege.ca or call 705.728.1968, ext. 5329.