How ESL Reading and Writing Circles Transformed One Newcomer's Learning Journey

Support for Newcomers

Calgary is the fourth most common destination for newcomers to Canada, so the demand for immigrant services remains high. We’ve been working with our incredible partners to expand the delivery of our workplace employment literacy programs and English as a Second Language (ESL) programs for learners facing long waitlists to access resources and English Language lessons.

Our ESL Reading and Writing Circles program runs almost year-round at multiple locations with our partners at The Mustard Seed and Women in Need Society (WINS). We’ve also been holding program sessions with partners in the Gateway network, including Vecova.

What is ESL Reading and Writing Circles?

Reading and Writing Circles provide a safe environment for participants to build confidence, write freely, and receive nonjudgmental, personalized help with reading, writing, and conversational English. Each program has 5-10 learners in the group, and our facilitators ensure your comfort and learning needs are met.

But there’s no better way to understand a program than from the learners themselves. We are always grateful for the stories they share.

Meet Daria

Daria is a learner from the ESL Reading and Writing Circles at WINS. She’s from Ukraine and moved to Calgary with her husband and cat five months ago.

How did you find out about the program? 

One of my friends told me about this program and I am very grateful to her. 

I am excited about the opportunity to join these classes because I want to improve my English level and be confident in my speaking. And of course, I hope to meet new people from different countries and discuss some issues that all newcomers have. 

What have you learned?

I learned more about Canadian culture, how I can make small talk, and many new words especially about feelings, emotions, family and daily routines. I learned some grammar and irregular verbs. 

We studied several lessons on how to express our emotions and feelings. I learned a lot of new words. And now I use them when talking, thanks to which people can better understand my condition and how I feel.

Do you have a favourite part of the program?

Each of our classes begins with a discussion of a very inspiring expression, and this is my favourite part. For example, last time, we discussed Mother Teresa's thoughts and expressions. Our teacher reminds us every lesson that each of us is unique and wonderful and shares her positive energy with us.

Has anything about the program surprised you?

To be honest, I don’t really like coming to places where I don’t know anyone. I don’t feel very comfortable, but what was my surprise when our teacher created such a friendly and supportive atmosphere from the first lesson. So by the second lesson I was already running with great pleasure without a drop of fear. 

Now I have become part of a wonderful community, I don’t feel lonely in a new country. I have become more confident in speaking English and now every ride in the elevator of my building goes with a small talk with my neighbors!

What would you say to someone thinking about joining?

If you want to join but have doubts, I highly recommend giving it a try. And I guarantee you, once you come to class you won’t be able to stop. This program is not just about learning English, it is about making friends and support. you will become part of a community where you will always be helped and supported.

Anything else you want to share? 

I am incredibly grateful to every person who takes part in the creation and implementation of this program. I thank our best teacher. She truly wants to help every immigrant in our classes. It is very valuable for me to meet such a wonderful person and learn from her!

Are you interested in joining Reading and Writing Circles? Would you like to partner with us to deliver the program in your community? Reach out to us at programs@furthered.ca

Here are some more pictures and a short video from our Reading and Writing Circles with The Mustards Seed, Women in Needs Society and Vecova.