Praba’s first weeks in Manitoba were a flurry of activity. There were seminars at Entry Program, career coaching at Manitoba Start, sending out job applications and settling in a new home. When he got hired at Shaw a month later, his plan to attend English classes became nearly impossible. Praba wanted to improve his CLB so that he can start working on his Engineering licensure but he had no time. When he learned about LINC Home Study (LHS), he couldn’t believe how convenient it was for him. Praba started LHS with a CLB of 6 (listening), 8 (speaking), 7 (reading) and 5 (writing). After a year, his CLB level moved to 7 in most areas. Now he is working to reach level 8.

“Learning LHS with English Online has been great. First of all, it’s at zero cost and instruction is delivered to you at home via online means. If you ask my e-facilitator Yuliana, she’ll say that my attendance has been 99%! What I like about learning English with her is that I don’t only learn the basics, like spelling and grammar, but the hidden aspects of language as well. For example, using the proper tone of voice and writing in short sentences.”

– Praba

Ramtha had just delivered her second child when she learned about LINC Home Study. She said that if she had known about the program a year ago, she would have joined earlier. The young mom is working to get a CLB 8 to enroll in an Adult Education program but the availability of child care had always prevented her from continuing her English studies. But now that she’s enrolled in LINC Home Study, she can study at home while taking care of her young kids.

“Learning with LINC with EO is “very useful because there is grammar, there is writing, vocabulary and expressions. The teachers are very professional. Teacher Blaine and Amrita are very helpful. Even in the Coffee Chat and workshops, there is a kind of discussion and it’s very nice. I like the articles and the kind of materials that we use because everything is useful. It’s an excellent service for us.”

– Ramtha

What is LINC Home Study?

Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) is a formal English language training program funded by IRCC to help newcomers who are unable to access regular classes to study at home. Those who are shift or full-time workers, stay-at-home moms, or those who live in far-flung rural areas, and others can enroll in LHS.

LHS classes are delivered online by certified Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL) instructors. Weekly meetings are scheduled for lessons and to check up on work. Students are expected to progress to the next LINC level in at least one skill area (listening, speaking reading, writing) within six months. They receive a certificate after each level accomplished. It can be used as proof of language proficiency to apply for citizenship, qualify for college/university, or other academic programs.

You can apply if you:

• are a permanent resident
• are at least 18 years old
• are unable to attend ESL classes in person
• have at least a CLB of 3 (listening/speaking/reading) and 2 (writing)

To apply, you will need an Adult EAL referral from one of these centres:

• Westman Immigrant Services (Brandon)
• South Eastman English and Literacy Services (Steinbach)
• Regional Connections (Winkler)
• WELARC (Winnipeg)

LINC Home Study with English Online

Learning LINC Home Study with English Online has several advantages:

• You get one-on-one support from TESL-certified instructors.
• It is supported by online resources that are always available.
• EO uses Manitoba-based settlement themes that have practical use in daily life.
• It is goal-oriented. Students start the course by making a learning plan to focus on their learning goals and priorities.
• It’s convenient and accessible because it’s fully online. You are spared traveling costs. You don’t need to get out of the house in winter.

There is usually a long waitlist for LHS as it is in high demand. When you register with English Online, you can opt to participate in our learning activities like Coffee Chats, Drop-in sessions or Language Circles while you wait for a slot in LHS.

Interested in enrolling in LHS? Register with English Online: How to Apply
 
Article updated September 30, 2020.