English Language Learning

Support for students learning in English

Strong English opens the door to success at school, in class and in friendships. Each year, RLC welcomes students from 15 to 20 countries, and for many of them English is not their first language. Our English Language Learning Enrichment (ELL) program is small and specialized. It helps students become comfortable and confident in English, and settle into learning in a Canadian classroom.

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Starting at the right level

Each student starts at the level that fits them. Lessons build reading, writing, speaking, and listening. Students learn to use English to understand new information, share their own ideas, and build friendships, skills they'll rely on through high school and at university or college. Teachers follow the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) and assess students in class as they go, so we can track their progress as their English grows.

How it works in each grade

Grades 7 and 8. ELL is built into the homeroom program. Students develop the everyday English they need to make friends and join in, along with the academic language they need in class.

Grades 9 and 10. ELL is a full-year course, so students build their English steadily from September to June.

Grades 11 and 12. ELL classes are not offered in the senior grades, so students joining in Grade 11 or 12 should already be comfortable learning in English. Where it's a better fit, students can complete the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Course (OSSLC) online, with support from our academic advising team.

In every grade, students prepare for the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT), a graduation requirement, in both their ELL and regular English classes.

"I told every teacher that I was new in this language environment. I still remember Mr. Leavitt saying that having questions could be fun and he would love to answer them."

^{Sian '24, China, now studying Computer Science at the University of Waterloo}

Beyond the classroom

Living at RLC is one of the best ways to learn English. In our close-knit boarding community, students use English all day, in class, at meals, during house games, and on the playing field. Along the way, they make friends and start to feel at home.

Activities and events throughout the year give them even more chances to practise. ELL students take part in everything RLC offers, from music and athletics to leadership roles in their houses and community events.

English testing

An English test is not required for admission. If your child has recent results from a test such as Duolingo, IELTS, or TOEFL, we encourage you to share them. Our Admissions or Student Success team may sometimes ask for results before a student arrives, so teachers can plan the right support from day one.