Core Learning
Functional reading, math, digital and English language skills are our main core learning opportunities. In addition, we may provide classes or workshops in other areas. Be sure to check all of your options.
English Language
Our classes focus on functional English. We do not provide or need language assessments. Together with our administrative team, the learner will determine which class best fits their learning goals.
Each program covers multiple levels and spends time on listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Learners should anticipate taking each level of class a number of times before progressing to the next class.
Low-Beginner English
In this class, you will learn and practise simple English words, greetings, and short sentences. You will listen, speak, read, and write about everyday things.
Beginner English
This class helps you understand and talk about everyday topics. You will practice listening, speaking, reading, and writing about your likes, dislikes, and personal experiences.
High-Beginner / Low-Intermediate English
This class helps you talk and write about your ideas and experiences in more detail. You will learn to understand longer sentences, some idioms, and short texts in plain English.
Intermediate English
This class helps you talk, read, and write about more complex topics. You will learn to understand longer stories, express your ideas clearly, and give opinions and explanations.
Intermediate English - (Live Like a Local)
This is a great class to practice your English language skills and learn about the community you now call home!
High Intermediate English
This class helps learners improve their speaking, reading, and writing skills to communicate clearly and confidently in English. Learners will practice talking about familiar and new topics, understanding longer texts, and writing short essays with good grammar and vocabulary.
English Pronunciation
Learn new vocabulary. Work on correct pronunciation and practice English conversation skills.
English for Driving
Led by a volunteer, this six-week learning activity will focus on driving vocabulary and sign identification. Each session will last for two hours, once per week. Please note that participants must be 18 years or older to participate.
Community Conversations Café (Multi Level)
Join our Community Conversations Café — a relaxed space to practice English through fun games, cultural sharing, and real conversations.
French Language
Our French classes help learners build practical communication skills for everyday life, work, and travel. Classes focus on speaking, listening, reading, and writing in a supportive and interactive environment.
Learners will start with the basics—such as greetings, simple conversations, and common vocabulary—and gradually develop the confidence to express themselves in different situations. As we expand our French program, higher levels will offer more opportunities to strengthen grammar, pronunciation, and cultural understanding.
Basic French (Absolute Beginner Level)
This class is designed for learners who have little to no experience with French. Learners will gain confidence in using simple greetings, essential phrases, and everyday vocabulary for basic communication.
Digital Skills
Learners are invited to work their way through an online basic digital course that includes topics such as what cyber-security is, what information should be shared online, ways to use the internet to communicate, and basics including what a computer is and how it works and what the internet is. While the course is self-paced, there will be a facilitator in the room to help with any questions and to provide guidance.
Basic Digital Skills
This is a self-paced, online program offering both a basic and intermediate curriculum. A Bow Valley Adult Learning Centre volunteer will be available to help learners get registered and answer any questions along the way.
Workplace Skills
When we gain skills for the workplace, they often provide benefits to our daily lives. Our Workplace Communications class provides learners with the opportunity to practice active listening skills, reflection, being comfortable asking open ended questions, and gaining confidence to have "tough" conversations.
Workplace Communications- Active Listening and Hard Conversations
Most workplace conflicts happen because of a lack of communication or a communication breakdown. Regardless of the position you hold, this class will cover the communication process, and help learners hone their active listening skills, and gain confidence in approaching and having ‘hard’ conversations.
Math
Our Using Math for Everyday Tasks class provides learners with fun "real life" activities where they can build their confidence in basic research, adding, subtracting, percentages, fractions, basic budgeting, and working with Canadian money. This is NOT a typical math class.
Using Math for Everyday Tasks
This class helps learners build confidence in everyday math skills, such as working with fractions, percentages, budgeting, and square footage. Activities are practical, hands-on, and often done in pairs or small groups.