Where to learn French?
More than a matter of culture, knowing French is essential in many situations. A lot of workplaces require their employees to be bilingual. If your children are attending a French school, speaking the language is the best way to be involved in their academic life. Whether you are new in the province or just want to brush up on your français, the neighbourhood has many programs to help you.
Linguistic integration
“At CACI, we don’t just ‘teach French’; we have linguistic integration classes”, says Anait Aleksanian, director of CACI, a community centre offering various services to immigrants. “This means our students learn the language by addressing different themes of their new society: culture, schools and children, how to find housing, how to open a bank account, how to get an appointment with a doctor…” she explained.
This holistic approach to learning French is carried by teachers trained by Immigration Canada. Six levels, from beginner to advanced, are offered in the morning, the afternoon or the evening to suit every schedule. “Every year, about 2500 people of all ages take advantage of our services, which are entirely free”, said Aleksanian.
Four semesters are offered. The next one starts in September; call now to register as the courses are very popular.
For the ladies
Concertation femme, an organisation for women, also offers French lessons which include basic training with computers and the Internet. The women-only program is offered to all accepted immigrants, permanent resident and refugees. The cost is $80 and each level lasts 12 weeks.
Family time
On a less formal note, Maison des Parents welcomes all parents and their children (up to five years old) to its French classes for beginners and intermediate learners. Classes are taught by volunteers.
“Our first goal is to help isolated mommies to become part of a community. A lot of them come with their children or husbands,” said Alima Mustapha, coordinator of Maison des Parents. Contrary to most organisations, Maison des Parents doesn’t ask for any paper or registration. “Commitment and attendance are the only requirements,” explained Mustapha.
So go ahead, make new friends and add your own accent to this ever-changing language. For the centres’ contact information, see page 14.
Steven Guilbeault - Chronique environnement
Richard Cléroux - Le fouineur politique
