Essential Skills Upgrading

Free English reading, writing, math and computer classes in Toronto for adults

The Essential Skills Upgrading (ESU) program provides free adult classes in Toronto to help learners improve their English reading and writing, mathematics, and computer skills. Our free adult classes are available in many locations across Toronto in Etobicoke, Bloor Street, Rexdale, North York and Scarborough.

We consider reading, writing, math and computer skills “essential” because we know they can be the foundation to a bright, new future. While ESU is a non-credit adult learning program, improving your reading, writing, and math skills:

• increase your employment opportunities.
• prepare you for high school, college, apprenticeship, or certificate programs.
• can help you gain more confidence and independence.

Is the ESU program right for you?

If you speak English, want to upgrade your skills and are goal-oriented, then the ESU program can help you improve your training and employment opportunities. Our classes run from September to June, Monday through Friday, on a full-time or part-time basis. We offer daytime and/or evening classes in 19 locations across Toronto.

Watch our video below. Listen to our learners’ experiences in the ESU program.

How to register for ESU’s free adult classes in Toronto

An assessor will discuss your goals and needs with you; complete an assessment; and find the class that’s right for you.

To get started, call the regional office that’s most convenient to you to make an appointment. Or, fill out the form below and someone from our team will be in touch.

Please see the Notice of Information Collection at the bottom of this page.

Notice of Collection and Use of Personal Information:

Personal information on this form is collected under the authority of sections 58(5), 169.1-173 and 189 of the Education Act, R.S.O. 1990, c.E.2 and will be used to plan, administer, deliver and promote the Toronto District School Board (“TDSB”) Community Services programs and initiatives, as well as for statistical purposes. This information is retained in accordance with the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. M56 and will be shared with authorized TDSB staff and the TDSB authorized service provider(s) in order to administer the above purposes. Questions about this collection should be directed to Carol Visser, TDSB Community Services Coordinator at Grace.Santeramo@tdsb.on.ca, or at 5050 Yonge Street, Toronto, Ontario M2N 5N8.