Newcomer Literacy Initiative

NLI History

Established in 2007, the Newcomer Literacy Initiative provides adult EAL literacy classes to newcomer immigrants and refugees who cannot access mainstream programs due to childcare commitments or mobility issues. With on-site childcare and language supports, the NLI program currently runs 3 classrooms (Foundations, CLB 1 and CLB 3) serving over 45 learners and their children. 

The NLI is a partnership between:

• Victoria Albert School
• Hugh John Macdonald School
• The Community Education Development Association and;
• The Immigrant and Refugee Community Organization of Manitoba

The program has received support from Neighbourhoods Alive, Literacy Partners of Manitoba and the Winnipeg Foundation, with current funding through Manitoba Labour and Immigration Adult Language Training Branch.

Program Details :

The NLI offers three classes based on the Canadian Language Benchmarks.

Literacy Foundations is held Monday, Wednesday, Friday from 1:00 – 3:30 pm

CLB 1-2 is held Monday – Friday from 9:00 – 11:30 am.

CLB 3-4 is held Monday – Friday from 1:00 – 3:30 pm.

Our classes provide students with survival English skills focusing on the following:

• School in Canada
• Parenting in Canada
• The Family
• Daily Routines
• Health
• Shopping & Money
• The Home
• Canada

New students are asked to contact:

The ENTRY Program 944-0133 to complete an orientation to Winnipeg. The ENTRY program will arrange for an English language assessment with:

The Winnipeg English Language Assessment and Referral Centre 943-5387 (WELARC).  WELARC will refer all eligible students to the NLI.

If you require any further information please contact:

The NLI Program Coordinator, Dorota Blumczynska, at IRCOM Office 95 Ellen Street at 943-8765.

For additional information please select one of the links below:

NLI Practicum Opportunities
NLI Volunteers

International Adult Learners Week
Employment Opportunities
Highlights