English Language Learners

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At the Durham Catholic District School Board, our English language learners are given educational supports that allow students to achieve their potential. We offer two programs English as a Second language (ESL) and English Literacy Development (ELD).

New to Canada?

Are you new to Canada? Do you have a child who is of elementary school age? Do you have questions about registration, the intake process, or our schools?

For information, please email:

Kerry Ruthard, Teaching & Learning Consultant at kerry.ruthard@dcdsb.ca

Who is an English language learner?

An English language learner is a student whose first language is other than English or is a variety of English that is significantly different from what is used for instruction in Ontario schools.

Where do English language learners come from?

Our students have diverse backgrounds and experiences. They may be born Canadian, but speak another language at home. Others arrive from other countries, such as China, Cuba, Mexico, Egypt, Nigeria and the Philippines. English language learners receive direct language instruction as needed in order to achieve proficiency in English.

Supports for elementary ESL/ELD students

ESL specialist teachers provide language support to a group of elementary schools in our Board. The ESL teacher works in the classroom and with the classroom teacher to support a student's English language development. Depending on a student's needs, the ESL teacher will be available weekly, bi-weekly or as needed.

Supports for secondary ESL/ELD students

Our secondary schools offer ESL courses for our English Language learners. Five courses are offered depending on language proficiency:

ESL AO
ESL BO
ESL CO
ESL DO
ESL EE

Speak with a member of the school's guidance department to learn more about course selection and graduation requirements.

What to do if my child is an English language learner?

English language learners must register at a school he/she wishes to attend. After registration, an ESL teacher will access a child's English and Math skills in order to place him/her in the right grade/class/course.

New to Canada

If you are new to Canada, our schools offer settlement assistance. These settlement workers provide service in thirty languages to help address your needs.

Helpful Resources

To learn more about the Ontario education system visit the following websites:

Contact Us

To learn more about our ESL/ELD programs email Teaching and Learning Consultant for English as a Second Language.