The English as a Second Language (ESL) program at Albert College is designed to assist English language learners develop the English skills they need to be proficient in their everyday lives, and more specifically, the proficiency in academic English that helps them to integrate into the mainstream school program. 

Through the strands of reading, writing, listening/speaking, socio-cultural competence and media literacy, the program aims to help students become successful English language learners by offering the opportunity for extensive verbal interaction with English-speaking peers and a qualified faculty member. In addition, the ESL classes at Albert College provide a small and intensive support system that focuses on content and thematic approach.

The ESL program at Albert College also focuses on preparing students for the IELTS University entrance tests. Upon entrance to the school, each student will write a TOEFL Junior Test to determine their ESL level. The students will then write a TOEFL Junior Test each year to monitor progression.  

In preparation for the IELTS University tests, the students in ESLCO, ESLDO, end ESLEO will receive the required preparation material and will work through all of the sections of the test during classes. Additionally, a qualified IELTS specialist will visit the school at scheduled times to hold group practice sessions.  

At Albert College we require ESL students in Grade 10 and 11 and those who are taking ESLC, D, or E, to write at least one IELTS University test during their Grade 10/11 year. Test scores allow us to see if students have met university requirements and identify areas they need to improve.

Travel and Cultural Component: ESL students travel to various parts of Canada and may participate in Albert College's Adventure Program. In addition to a cultural trip to Ottawa, ESL students take part on our weekend program that includes athletics, cultural events, performances and social activities. 

 

English Language Preparation and Testing
(for students not enrolled in ESL)

English language learners who have four years or less of full-time study in an English language school system in an English-speaking country must complete a standardized language test to apply to universities and colleges in Canada. The top two recommended and recognized tests are: International English Language Testing System (IELTS) or Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). These tests are designed to assess the language ability of students who aim to study, work, immigrate and integrate into an English-speaking environment.

These tests provide a score that is required to apply to most Universities in Canada, the United Kingdom, the United States and other English-speaking institutions around the world. The required score is different and determined by each University. At Albert College we have found that our students are finding it difficult to meet the minimum standards. With the new English Language Preparation and Testing Program (ELPT) now being offered for Albert College ESL students, our students get the support they need and have greater success, through intensive IELTS preparation.

Please Note: Albert College students who have written the IELTS or TOEFL tests and not met the minimum scores, must be prepared to participate in this ELPT Program based on the recommendation of the Assistant Head - Senior School.

The English Language Preparation and Testing Program is for Albert College students in Grades 10 through 12 who are preparing for a Post-Secondary program in English, who need to achieve or exceed the minimum IELTS score (6.5 overall, with no less than 6.0 on any band score). 

The ELPT Program includes IELTS Superpack preparation material, specialized group sessions and practices, and on-site oral and written tests (December and/or May). The Fall program also includes a second test date and transportation (October or November).