ESL Program

The SPEAKWELL ESL ENGLISH CONVERSATION PROGRAM is a free, non-denominational program that welcomes adults eighteen years of age and older from all countries, cultures, and religions who are Canadian citizens, immigrants, refugees, individuals on work permits, and others. The program is run by volunteers and sponsored by the Community Development Office, Saanich Parks and Recreation, of the Municipality of Saanich in Victoria, British Columbia.

The program runs from October 1st to May 31st. We meet Saturdays from 2 to 3:30 pm at the Gordon Head Lawn Bowl Club, 4105 Lambrick Way, Victoria, BC.

How does it work?

To begin with, the coordinator conducts a 20—to 30-minute English assessment to determine each potential student’s English level and then places the individual in the correct group according to their English ability. The group size is limited to 3 or 4 students to facilitate conversation and learning. Groups range from beginners to advanced students.

We have a new multi-level lesson each week, chosen from numerous topics of interest to the participants. The lesson includes:

  • A little grammar
  • Pronunciation
  • New vocabulary including idioms/phrasal verbs
  • Discussion questions related to the weekly topic that help students improve their conversation skills and gain confidence in speaking.

When can you come to the program?

We use a waiting list, so the first people to register will get in first. Please remember that the wait time could be up to a month long.

Attendance

The program is not drop-in. We ask students to attend every Saturday. Only through regular attendance can a student make noticeable progress. If a student cannot come at least 3 times a month, we will let a new student take the individual’s place in the group.

Unfortunately, we do not have childcare.

We ask students not to bring their children – they become bored and often distract adult students.