Residents and newcomers in Hope and the surrounding area can receive free Canadian Language Benchmark assessments on June 24.
The initiative is part of an initiative led by University of the Fraser Valley Hope Centre and EmpowerEd Support Services Society, and comes in response to a recognized gap in local educational resources.
“We recognize there are limited options in Hope, and this provides a much-needed service without requiring travel to Chilliwack,” said Crystal Sylvester, UFV Hope Centre Coordinator with the School of Continuing Education.
The event, scheduled from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at UFV Hope, aims to help individuals determine their language proficiency.
“Newcomers can also benefit by understanding their language level before pursuing upgrading, certifications, or personal learning goals,” said Sylvester.
Fraser Health and WorkBC will also be present to discuss career pathways and opportunities with attendees.
“Anyone who wants or needs an assessment can get it done on that day. We wanted to keep it open so it can speak to the imagination of what they can do,” said Michelle Rhodes, of UFV’s Continuing Education program. “Starting in the fall our goal is to offer a series of courses that will allow people to ladder up their skill levels.”
Space for the CLB Assessment, as well as the courses, is limited. To guarantee a spot on June 24 you can reserve your spot, all others will be one a first-come first-served basis.
UFV was recently approved to offer new language courses, funded through the Ministry of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills. These two courses (064 and 074) will be coming to Hope for the fall and spring semester. These university preparation courses, titled Writing for Success, are open to learners looking to improve their skills. The courses will also explore pathways into health care. While tuition is free, standard student fees may apply.
“Many people in Hope sit at a Canadian Language Benchmark level 6 or below,” Sylvester noted. “This event allows people to get a benchmark and understand which areas they can build on.”
EmpowerEd Support Services Society offers one-on-one tutoring and small-group classes for beginner English learners. Individuals looking to improve their benchmark level can access this free service.
The event will include snacks and opportunities for attendees to ask questions. It will also serve as a precursor to UFV’s open house in the fall. To learn more, or if you have questions about eligibility, contact darla@empoweredhope.ca or crystal.sylvester@ufv.ca.
