A partnership between the YMCA of Greater Moncton and School District 2 allows non-anglophones to improve their English skills

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By Susanne MacDonald
This Week Staff

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"There is a large need in the Greater Moncton Area for affordable English language training," says Angelique Reddy, Manager of Community Development for the YMCA of Greater Moncton.

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Angelique Reddy is the Manager of Community & International Development for the YMCA of Greater Moncton.

"Although services such as the Multicultural Association of Greater Moncton (MAGMA) exist, these are only open to permanent residents.

"Our English Additional Language (EAL) classes are open to everyone whether they are Canadian citizens, permanent residents, students, or those with working visas."

The YMCA of Greater Moncton, in partnership with School District 2 is offering a six-week course in intermediate EAL classes, which will be held on Tuesday and Thursday evenings, beginning August 5 at the YMCA in Moncton.

"The English Additional languages classes have been offered since January 2008 and have been a tremendous success," says Angelique.

"They've been ongoing since January and we look forward to continuing them."

The classes, which are held in an informal and relaxed environment, are led by certified English language instructors and will focus on speaking, listening, reading and writing.

"Classes are geared towards adults and mature students," says Angelique.

"Anyone who is interested in increasing their vocabulary and their understanding of the English language will benefit from these classes."

To date, Angelique reports they have had a wide variety of people attending the classes with students comprised of newcomers from various African nations, China, South Korea, various South American Countries, Quebec, and even those from the Greater Moncton area who simply have not been exposed to the English language.

Classes are kept small so that students are able to get more one-on-one attention; therefore, the maximum capacity of each class is 12 participants.

Angelique says the classes will have a positive impact on attendees because students will improve their overall understanding of the English language.

"Through class work and conversation, students will be able to use the language learned to better their daily lives whether at work or at home," says Angelique.

"Thanks to the dedicated ESL instructors provided by School District 2, many participants leave the program feeling more confident in the English language."

The objective of the EAL program complements the programming offered by the YMCA of Greater Moncton.

"For over 130 years, our facility has provided thousands of children and adults with programs and services dedicated to personal growth and community development," says Angelique.

"And thanks to a great partnership with School District 2, we are able to provide additional services to those in need.

"The YMCA provides a very welcoming environment and participants have a chance to learn what is available to them and their family within these four walls."

Participants may register either at the YMCA of Greater Moncton, 30 War Veterans Avenue, or at the School District 2 office, located at Mapleton Plaza in Moncton.