First ESL program opens its doors in Lindsay

Free program for anyone who wants to brush up on their English language skills

By David Rapaport

A few months ago, an English as a Second Language (ES) class began at St. Paul’s Anglican Church on Russell Street West in Lindsay. Immigrants and refugees in Kawartha Lakes, for the first time, now have access to learning English as a Second Language.

Previously only international students at Frost Campus of Fleming College had access to ESL classes in the Lindsay area. Now, anybody from the public can walk into the church and attend, free of charge. Classes are offered on Tuesday and Thursday mornings at 10:30 a.m. and last for about an hour.

As more immigrants and refugees arrive in Canada, more demands are made on the community to provide and teach language skills. And the service is in demand. There is an ESL program in Peterborough, but there is a waiting list.

Two Lindsay residents, Kim and Graham Walsh initiated the program, prepared the curriculum and teach the classes. They both had training and experience in providing ESL instruction at the University of Birmingham, England. Both feel that offering this program to immigrants in Kawartha Lakes is “an expression of our best side.”

Newcomers want and need help to learn English skills to enable them to become productive and contributing citizens in the workplace and the community. According to Graham Walsh, “This is our way, our Canadian way of showing empathy and compassion.”

The couple approached Bonnie Skerritt, the church vicar last year. She readily agreed to provide space for the program. Kim Walsh knows that this training provides immigrants with many important skills, particularly in job hunting. “Immigrants and refugees should be made welcome to Canada – and what better way than teaching them to read and speak English.”

If you are interested in studying English as a Second Language, or know somebody who wants lessons – contact Kim Walsh at 647-501-0218 or at .