The dynamic and cosmopolitan metropolis of Toronto is a gleaming mass of skyscrapers, expansive green public spaces, diverse ethnic food outlets, and superb attractions including major sports venues. Contributing greatly to the city’s perpetually buzzing atmosphere is its large number of young students who come to Toronto to immerse themselves in its multicultural vibrancy and learn some valuable skills in the process.
Skyscrapers dominating the Toronto landscape (Photo: Jim McDougall via Flickr / CC BY 2.0)
When it comes to visitors to Toronto for whom English isn’t their first language, there are a large number of institutions that run accredited English courses throughout the year. If you’d like to hone your English language proficiency in Toronto, we’ve done some research and picked out five of the best English language schools the city has to offer.
Centre of English Studies
www.ces-schools.com
For visitors to Toronto looking to join an English language course during their stay, the Centre of English Studies is a highly reputable school with over 40 years’ experience teaching students all over the world. Located just across from the University of Toronto, the centre is at the heart of the city’s vibrant student life and, combined with a busy programme of social events, offers plenty of opportunity to socialise and meet like-minded people both in and outside your studies. As for the range of courses, there are several suitable for short term visitors, with course lengths starting at just 2 weeks, and rising all the way up to 25+ weeks. For a guide on pricing, a 2-week course in Standard General English (20 lessons per week) is priced at $833 CAD. More expensive options include Intensive General English, Business English, Combination Courses (including 5 one-to-one lessons per week), and Exam Preparation. The centre also offers a comprehensive accommodation service to help students find the right place to stay.
Photo: CES
Tamwood
www.tamwood.com
Founded in 1992, Tamwood Language Centres’ Toronto school is located in a high-rise building in the city centre, close to many of its main attractions. The school offers a range of courses including General English, International Business English and IELTS, as well as a University Pathway Progam and private one-to-one tuition too. Prices vary depending on the length of the course, but for a point of reference, a two-month course featuring 28 lessons a week will cost $2,130 CAD, including materials and registration fee. Amenities at the school include a lounge area where students can relax and socialise, and there are also several cafes and shop in the same building. The school is well accredited too, and has previously been voted the best ESL School and best vocational college in North America.
Photo: Tamwood Language Centresl
GEOS
www.geostoronto.com
With more than 40 years’ experience, GEOS have gained an impressive reputation for their interactive, fun and effective teaching methods. Their Toronto school offers classes for all levels and time requirements, including Standard, Intensive and Super-Intensive courses. For those who want to combine their learning with work or sight-seeing, there are also part-time courses available, and students can also pick elective courses that focus on specific skills such as conversation, preparation for ESL tests, or language for business or university. The most immersive courses run three different classes every day, each taught by a different teacher, meaning students will spend up to 90 minutes speaking and listening every day. GEOS also offer a dedicated accommodation service that helps students find either homestays or private residences for their time studying in Toronto.
Photo: GEOS
Language Studies International
www.lsi.edu
Located in an eye-catching modern building in the heart of Rosedale, one of Toronto’s most picturesque residential neighbourhoods, LSI has a range of General and Intensive courses, as well as Premium courses for small groups, Academic courses for exam and university prep, business courses, and Junior courses for ages 6-17. Whether you’re seeking a short refresher course of 10-20 lessons per week, or a longer, more intensive course, there’ll be something to suit your needs. Facilities at the school include 16 modern classrooms, a common room equipped with microwave and fridge, a computer room with free internet access, and a coffee machine. Class sizes are kept to a maximum of 16 per class, and students from 14 different countries are currently represented at the school.
Photo: LSI
University of Toronto
www.learn.utoronto.ca
Founded in 1827, the prestigious University of Toronto is one of the most preeminent institutions at which to learn English in Canada. The university’s School of Continuing Studies has been providing English language programming for over 65 years, with its courses accredited by Languages Canada. Courses on offer include English for Academic Purposes, English for General and Professional Purposes, and English for Business Communication. There are also group courses that can be customised based on your needs, incorporating English as well as other areas of expertise such as leadership, finance, business, Canadian culture, and more. All students benefit from touch-screen digital monitors in every classroom, campus-wide, secure wireless internet, and personalised feedback from their instructor. A diverse programme of extra-curricular activities offer plenty of opportunity to explore Toronto and beyond in the company of fellow students.
Photo: University of Toronto