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Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) Program

The Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) program provides basic English language skills at no cost to adult newcomers who meet the eligibility criteria.

The Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) program provides basic English language skills at no cost to adult newcomers who meet the eligibility criteria.

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What Do We Offer?

  • English communication skills developed through reading, speaking, listening, grammar, and writing exercises;

  • Computer aided instruction;

  • Cultural excursions to places of interest;

  • Guest speakers from the Health Department, Police Services, and other community support services;

  • Assistance in accessing resources in the community such as health clinics; retail and educational sites; and business and recreational facilities;

  • Care for newcomer children: Infant, toddlers and preschooler;

  • Transportation allowance (for eligible learners).

Pre registration requirement

Prior to registering for classes, all learners are referred to local YMCA LINC Assessment centres for a Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) assessment, which then determines the placement in the LINC class. Please call the YMCA Assessment Centre at 416-925-5462 to book an assessment test.

Prior to registering for classes, all learners are referred to local YMCA LINC Assessment centres for a Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) assessment, which then determines the placement in the LINC class. Please call the YMCA Assessment Centre at 416-925-5462 to book an assessment test.

Care for Newcomer Children (CNC)

As part of the LINC program and to ensure accessibility, childcare services are provided to parents with children 9 months and above while the parents in classrooms. Learning through play is the most imperative pillar of TNO’s CNC Program to support the settlement of the child and family.

Through fun educational activities, children have the opportunity to thrive in all developmental areas at their individual pace. The curriculum will allow children to explore Canada’s language and culture at a speed that is appropriate to their interests, skill level and age.

As part of the LINC program and to ensure accessibility, childcare services are provided to parents with children 9 months and above while the parents in classrooms. Learning through play is the most imperative pillar of TNO’s CNC Program to support the settlement of the child and family.

Through fun educational activities, children have the opportunity to thrive in all developmental areas at their individual pace. The curriculum will allow children to explore Canada’s language and culture at a speed that is appropriate to their interests, skill level and age.

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Who is Eligible?

Must be 18 years of age and meet one of the following requirements:

  • Permanent Residents

  • Convention Refugees

  • Government-Assisted Refugee

  • Privately Sponsored Refugee

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Hours & Locations

  • Morning Program:  Mon – Fri, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM

  • Afternoon Program: Mon – Fri, 12:30 PM – 3:30 PM

  • Evening Program: Mon – Fri, 4:30 PM – 7:30 PM

  • Online Night Classes: Mon – Fri, 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM

  • Location: Thorncliffe Park Community Hub, 45 Overlea Blvd, Unit 200, Toronto, M4H 1C3.

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Contact Details

Sadia Zafar, Manager, Newcomer Support Services

  • Phone: 416-421-3054 Ext 1224

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