Summer ESL Literacy Program

The goals of HWDSB’s ESL/ELD programs are to:

• Assist the Newcomer with English language acquisition;
• Provide orientation to Canadian society and culture;
• Develop basic interpersonal communication skills in English;
• Enable students to graduate from Secondary Schools with the academic language and skills needed to be successful in Canadian post-secondary institutions and workplaces.

The Summer ESL Literacy Program supports our Day School ESL/ELL programs and helps students continue to improve their English language acquisition during the summer.

Registration for Summer ESL Literacy Program 2026 opens April 1, 2026.

Registration for Summer ESL Literacy Program 2026 closes June 8, 2026, at 11:00 a.m.  

HWDSB Students:  Please contact your ESL Teacher, Guidance Counsellor or Principal to apply.

Students from outside HWDSB need to first complete the student registration process and then ALSO apply for the program.

Please contact the Continuing Education Hill Park Learning Centre by phone at 905-561-2190 or email us at [email protected] for additional information.

• The classes are for CURRENT Grade 6-12 students whose English skills are no higher than ESLCO or Step Three.
• Programs are at NO COST to eligible students.
• This is NOT a credit program.
• The program is designed to make learning fun and engaging.
• Good attitude, behaviour and attendance is expected of every student.
• Students are encouraged to bring school supplies and nut free snacks and drinks each day.
• Programs will run if there are sufficient numbers. There must be a minimum of 12 students registered and attending the program.
• Visa students, visitors and students who did not attend an Ontario school in 2025-2026 may attend for a fee of $400 (2026 FEES TO BE CONFIRMED).  Fees must be paid in advance through Hill Park Learning Centre, 465 East 16th Street, Hamilton.  An online payment link will be provided.
• Confirmation of your student’s acceptance will be emailed in mid-June. If you don’t receive the confirmation by June 22, please contact the Hill Park Learning Centre for assistance at [email protected]
• Applications can be completed by your student’s Principal (elementary schools), Guidance Counselor or ESL Teacher.
• Non-HWDSB students, please contact the Continuing Education Hill Park Learning Centre by phone at 905-561-2190 or email us at [email protected] for additional information.