Burnhamthorpe Adult Learning Centre's Mission Statement
Burnhamthorpe Collegiate Adult Learning Centre (BCALC) offers a variety of credit courses for students wishing either to complete their Ontario Secondary School Diploma or needing to upgrade in preparation for college or university admission requirements. The EdVance Program is for students aged 18-20, and the Adult Program is for students who are 21 years of age and over. Both programs offer preparation for the college, university, and workplace. We also offer Co-Operative Education, English as a Second Language, Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR).
We also offer specialty certificate programs. These include PSW (Personal Support Worker), CCA (Child Care Assistant), and Introduction to Health Care.
Adult Credit Program
The Adult Credit Program offers credit courses for students who are 21 years of age or older. Students become eligible to receive the Ontario Secondary School Diploma when they complete 30 credits, the Ontario Literacy Credit and 40 hours of Community Volunteer work. Students prepare for university, community college, apprenticeship and/or work through participation in a pursuit of academic success. The program is available to students from a variety of backgrounds.
More Information About Burnhamthorpe Adult Learning Centre
Special Education Program
The Special Education program provides students with developmental disabilities academic skills, independent daily living and social skills, and community skills.We provide a supportive environment that focuses on the individual needs of our learners. Our goal is to help students develop to their fullest potential and work toward independence.
Essential Skills Upgrading (non-credit)
Essential Skills Upgrading (formerly Literacy & Basic Skills) helps learners improve reading, writing, math, and basic computer skills. This non-credit program help adults (19+) work towards goals, including entry to Adult Credit Program, college upgrading programs, employment or greater independence. Please contact (416) 394-3809 to find out more information.
Non-Credit English as a Second Language (ESL)
Non-Credit English as a Second Language (ESL) Program is for students 18 years or older who want to improve their English listening, speaking and writing skills. Instruction is based on the Canadian language Benchmarks system for language proficiency, the national standard for second-language learners of English in Canada.
Hairstylist Apprenticeship Program
Studio 500 Pre-Apprenticeship Program prepares you with the skills necessary to launch your career as an Apprentice Hairstylist. Classes are taught by experienced industry professionals in fully equipped and modern classrooms. For more information, please visit www.studio500.tdsb.on.ca or call (416) 394-6961.
Additional Features
- First Stage Child Care Centre
- Rathburn Area Youth Program
- Food Share Partnership Program
Student Life - Where You Belong
GO TEAM
Students at Burnhamthorpe Collegiate Adult Learning Centre start their day with our Daily Breakfast Program. They also participate in a variety of extra-curricular activities, including tutoring and lunchtime sports activities. Other extra-curricular activities include the following clubs: ESL, Karaoke, Chess, Poetry, Art, Cooking. Our student ambassadors is a student leadership club. We also provide a 2SLGBTQ+ student support group along with a caring adult program. Our Lunch and Learn program also provides dynamic motivational speakers and activities that support student success. Field trips, guest speakers, and assemblies enrich curriculum and allow students to expand their knowledge about the world around them.
WHAT SETS US APART
What sets us apart from other schools is our student-centered approach which promotes literacy and numeracy goals and works to build success for every student. As well, we regularly assess student needs and achievement strategies. We provide a warm and supportive atmosphere, promoting equity and inclusion initiatives through out the various programs.
PARENT AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Community involvement is an important aspect at Burnhamthorpe Adult Learning Centre. Each year, we celebrate Winterfest and Summerfest where we come together as a learning community. Once a month, we have Lunch and Learn programs. Lunch and Learn sessions provide our students with relevant information about issues that pertain to their lives. Assemblies have included: Mothers Against Drunk Driving, Skills Canada Speeches, OYAP, Black History education, and Environmental awareness. College and university speakers visit regularly to inform students about programs and future career options.