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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

August 10, 2026 • News • Yatsa Smajovic

Date: August 10, 2026 

Centre for Skills Launches Community Bridge Program to Help Newcomers Build English Skills, Community Connections and Careers in Halton Region 

Burlington, ON — Centre for Skills is pleased to announce the launch of the Community Bridge Program, a free English language and career-readiness initiative funded by the Regional Municipality of Halton. The program supports adult newcomers at Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 4 and higher who are working toward finding a job, growing their career, and connecting with their community in the Halton region. 

The Community Bridge Program a free in-person full-time, 12-week program that combines workplace-focused English language training with practical career preparation and community connection activities. Participants attend Monday to Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., with assignments, workshops, and one-to-one support built into the program. 

“This program gives newcomers enhanced language and workplace knowledge and skills to help them succeed in their careers and feel connected to their community,” said Ellen Faraday, Programs Manager, Centre for Skills. 

About the Program 

The Community Bridge Program is open to adults (18+) who are residents of the Halton Region and have reached a Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) skill level of 4 or higher.  

The 12-week curriculum covers: 

  • Career Planning 
  • Job Search Strategies 
  • AI Skills for Job Search 
  • Resume & Cover Letters 
  • Interview Practice 
  • LinkedIn Profile Optimization 
  • Employment Rights and Standards 
  • Pronunciation Enhancement 
  • Effective Business Writing 
  • Effective Presentation Skills 
  • Customer Service & Soft Skills 
  • Common Expressions and Small Talk 
  • Canadian Workplace Culture 
  • Emotional/Cultural Intelligence 
  • Meeting Protocols and Workplace Diplomacy 
  • Networking Strategies 
  • Community Connections and Supporting Programs 

Instruction is delivered by certified OSELT instructors in a relaxed, welcoming classroom environment designed to build participants’ skills and confidence. 

Now Accepting Registrations 

Registration is now open for the September 2026 session, taking place in Burlington, ON.  
A second session will run from January to March 2027 at a Halton Region location to be confirmed; registration for that session opens in November. 

Interested individuals or community organizations can register or learn more by visiting the program page or contacting Centre for Skills directly. 

To learn more, please visit: Community Bridge – Centre for Skills 

Register here: Community Bridge Registration Form 

Media Contact: Yatsa Smajovic, Communications & Social Media Specialist, Centre for Skills, Email: yatsa.smajovic@centreforskills.ca Tel: 289-983-7642 Website: www.centreforskills.ca 

About Centre for Skills 

Centre for Skills is a non-profit charitable organization that delivers employment services, skilled trades training, language instruction, settlement services and workforce development programs across Halton and Peel regions for over 25 years. 

Operating from multiple locations, Centre for Skills offers free, government-funded services to support job seekers, newcomers, and career changers through: 

  • One-to-one job search coaching and career development 
  • Language training and settlement support 
  • Academic upgrading 
  • Skilled Trades exploration and pre-apprenticeship trades programs 

Centre for Skills is committed to building inclusive communities and resilient local economies through strong partnerships with employers, governments, and service providers. 

We serve over 20,000 people annually in the Halton Region and Mississauga.