Community Connections

Are you new to Canada and Halton? We offer free programs for newcomers who are looking to settle in Halton region in Canada. Our programs will help you make new social connections, meet new friends, improve your skills and learn about life in Canada.

Building Better Futures

Client Testimonials

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I wanted to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude to the Centre For Skills Development, to our instructors (Marcella, Kate and Ryan) and all the people behind this program for your guidance and support throughout the duration of the Enhanced Language Training program. As a newcomer to Canada, the skills and knowledge I’ve gained under your instruction have been extremely useful in navigating both the language and cultural aspects of my new home. This program exceeded all my…

Joven Burlington, ON

I’d like to share the exciting news that I have found employment. I have been hired as the supply chain manager at Hankook Tires Canada Corporation located in Brampton. Hankook Tires is one of the top global tire manufacturers, and the Canadian branch plays a crucial role in distributing tires produced in various countries (including the USA, China, Korea, Indonesia, and Hungary) across all regions of Canada. It’s been about three weeks since I started working here. Also, I’d like…

James Burlington, ON

I knew the ELT class from the recommendation of my precious ESL class pathway teacher. Before I attended ELT provided by the Centre for Skills Development, I thought it was only an English enhancement course. But I soon understood that it provided more than language skills for newcomers. Which included knowledge of Canadian job marketing, workplace culture, resume writing, interview strategies, even mental health, WES credential evaluation, LinkedIn guidance, and so on. I got four interviews and did better and…

Clark Chen Oakville, ON

Community Connections programs and events are free and designed to help you:

Learn about life in Canada
Meet new friends and newcomers alike
Engage with your community
Build social connections
Learn about other programs and events available in your community
Improve your English conversation skills in a relaxed atmosphere
Build your speaking confidence
Learn new skills for work or personal growth

Conversation Circles for newcomers

Make friends and get to know your community, improve your English and learn more about day-to-day life in Canada. Program is held in English In Burlington and Oakville Public Libraries.

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Conversation Circles for Seniors

Make friends and get to know your community, improve your English and learn more about day-to-day life in Canada. Program is held in English, on-line for senior newcomers every Thursday.

Computer Literacy for newcomers

Improve your computer literacy skills! Join us in our Oakville, Burlington or Milton offices to learn and practice new computer literacy skills every Friday

Ukrainian Connections

Connect with other Ukrainians in Canada and get to know your community. Learn more about day-to-day life in Canada and other community programs available to you. Program is held in Ukrainian and English.

Practical Sewing Projects

Join us weekly in Burlington to develop new skills in sewing and alterations through a variety of projects. All sewing equipment and tools will be provided.