Vancouver is a popular city among English language learners, with dozens of nationally-recognised educational institutions and independent language schools to choose from.
(Photo: Mike via Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0)
Surrounded by dramatic mountains and home to thriving art, theatre and music scene, the bustling west coast seaport of Vancouver is among Canada’s most diverse cities, attracting people of every age and ethnicity from across the world. There is a vast selection of options for studying English in Vancouver, with a range of courses available ensuring you’re certain to find one that suits your preferences and needs. Whether you’re planning to stay in the city for a few weeks or a few months, you’ll be able to use your time wisely to sharpen up your English skills. Here are five recommended places offering English language courses for short-term visitors to Vancouver based on student testimonials, value for money, school facilities and programme offering.
Sprachcaffe
Sprachcaffe is a global language learning leader with over 40 years of experience under its belt. Students can choose to learn one of seven languages in locations across the world, from London to Malta. Sprachcaffe’s Vancouver outpost is located in downtown, a stone’s throw from the Skytrain, shops, cafes, bars and Stanley Park. The school offers dedicated courses for adults and students aged 14-21. Classes are restricted to 10-15 people to ensure you maximize your learning time and are taught by native English speakers. Programms range from a part-time two-week course to an intensive course with six lessons per day. One-to-one tuition is available too.
VGC International College
(Photo: VGC International College)
With more than 15 years of academic excellence, VGC International College is a Top Choice Award winner for the best language school in Vancouver. Thousands of students from over 75 countries have studied here over the years. The school’s reputation is built around a strong focus on the student experience, enabling students to achieve their individual academic goals and creating a warm learning environment with highly qualified teachers and a vibrant intercultural student life. With two campuses located in the heart of downtown Vancouver, VGC is divided into two schools: the School of English Language and the School of International Business. In the former, students can study English courses of all levels and for all purposes: General English, University Preparation, IELTS, TOEFL and Cambridge preparation, and Summer Teen Experience. At the latter, VGC offers a variety of business programs with the same high academic standards.
St. George International College
A well-established language school originally founded in London, this Vancouver branch offers various language programs including General English, Business English and English for Professionals. Comprehensive programs require students to practice all reading, writing, listening and speaking exclusively in English on a daily basis, or for those who prefer to learn at a slower, less intensive pace, there are alternative options. The school’s well-equipped campus has modern classrooms and a computer station, while a cafeteria with kitchenettes, a coffee machine and a dedicated ‘party room’ help make it a comfortable, fun and sociable place to be. There are also diverse after-school activities scheduled every day.
DEA Education Center
(Photo: DEA Education Center)
DEA Education Center offer a range of courses, including General English, Business English and Test Preparation courses, with options available for learners of all ages, levels and needs. Curriculums are focussed on role-plays, field trips and group learning activities to help students integrate and advance more quickly, and personalised study packages are designed to help you accomplish your goals. Students are encouraged to build their vocabulary for both formal and informal situations. All courses are offered online through SKYPE and the school also provides in-house tutoring. Beyond the classroom, there’s a busy social programme too, with regular socialising and sightseeing trips.
Learn more at DiscoverEnglish.ca
(Photo: Pera College)
Situated a short walk from downtown Vancouver, Pera College boasts a modern and cosy school environment. A wide number of courses are available with flexible starting dates, so the school should be able to accommodate your dates. The General English programme includes 15 hours of integrated English lessons in the morning and 10 hours of skill development classes in the afternoon. Short-term travel-study programs are also available for middle and high-school students keen to learn basic language skills. There are also English for Business and Management courses. Class sizes are kept small to ensure all students receive plenty of focus, and a hands-on teaching style centres on listening, speaking, reading and writing skills.