Filipino Canadian Construction Society (FCCS) is an organization of Filipino Canadians who are engineering and architectural professionals engage in the construction industry be it a General Contractor, Trade Contractor, employed in the industry, contract worker, and those involve in sales of construction materials, tool and equipments. Lately the society had welcomed other individuals with various professional and business backgrounds who would like to join the society.
Sometime in February 2006, a group of Filipino Canadian professionals thru the assistance of Multi-Cultural Helping House Society, conceptualized an idea to form an organization where the skills, talents, and education of Filipinos will be showcased to the Canadian community. It was observed that, there is a big number of Filipino immigrants in this country, with Engineering and Architectural background, there are Filipino Canadian contractors and construction professionals who are successful, but has never organized themselves and therefore are, rarely known or recognized. There was never a genuine organization, who can represent the skills and talents of Filipino immigrant professionals.
By binding together, the organizers felt that Filipino Canadian Contractors, engineering & architectural professionals will have a stronger voice in the construction industry. They will have the strength when their talents and skills are combined together, where they can share, foster greater success, and achieve goals on their respective field. This move can also be an effective means to lobby with the government and impress to the Filipino Canadian community the presence of Filipino Canadian professionals who can provide construction services.
Filipino Canadian Construction Society was then organized on February of 2006, and was registered as a Society on December of 2006. The people that initiated the move consist of; Mr. Tom Avendano, Eleanor Guerrero-Campbell, Amado Mercado, who became the interim President, and then later the first President of the society. Other members of the group were, Charlie Valle, Boni Canama, Boni Solano, Joseph Laranang, Raul Pineda, Nestor Roma, Jun Custodio, Caesar Pascual, Renato Delos Santos, and many more.
During the past years, FCCS, also extended their commitment to help new immigrants to settle encouragingly in this country. Training, education seminars, job hunting, job referrals and networking, are continuously done to help newcomers established a new life. Various assistance to Temporary Foreign workers was also provided especially those that were displaced and were taken advantage by their employers.
To date, the new officers and board of directors are committed to enhance the image of the Society, making efforts to achieve better recognition, obtain more contracts and jobs for its members, and improve services to the public.
Rene delos Santos
President 2008-2010
SOURCE: http://fccsbc.org/index.html
Micro-Loans Program
DIVERSEcity, partnered with Vancity, is offering the following micro-loans to assist low-income immigrants who are ineligible for traditional credit:
Back to Work Loans
Support those who had a career in their home country but for lack of skill-upgrading or Canadian certification, they are unable to work in fields in which they already have some training. The loans are from $500-$5,000.
With These Hands Loans
Assist individuals to buy tools and equipment to enter a trade or profession; or start a self-employed business (i.e. massage therapists or carpenters). The loans range from $500-$5,000.
Peer Lending Program
A group-based program for individuals who are all launching micro-businesses offering small loans between $1,000-$5,000. Successful participants who have completed a self-employment/entrepreneurial training program can apply for a Be My Own Boss Business Loan up to $35,000.
For information please contact our Program Consultant:
Phone: 604.597.3448
Email: microloans@dcrs.ca
Program Information:
Download Information:(Please, use Microsoft Internet Explorer)
Peer Lending/Be my Own Boss Loan
SOURCE: www.dcrs.caThe Practice Firm - Making work in Canada a Reality
Are you an immigrant who lacks Canadian work experience to find a job in your profession?
The PRACTICE FIRM provides up to 12 weeks of work experience in a simulated full-cycle business operations centre which is mentored by a local company. We provide computers with up-to-date technology, including Microsoft Office, Simply Accounting and Windows.
The PRACTICE FIRM offers you an opportunity to:
- refresh your current skills
- learn about Canadian business practices
- develop a career portfolio
- gain a local work reference
- receive a Certificate of Completion from Douglas College
Workshops include:
- Orientation to Canadian business practices
- Communications
- Professional job search
The PRACTICE FIRM performs full-cycle business through replicating the operations of a company's head office.
There are 20 positions available in the following departments:
- Accounting
- Customer Service
- Human Resources
- Marketing & E-commerce
- Purchasing Services
- Office Administration
- Web Design
Business facilitators also assist you to develop a professional resume and cover letter, provide advice to enhance your interview and networking skills, and conduct an active job search. Time is designated daily for job search and one-to-one coaching and support is also available.
Is The PRACTICE FIRM for you?
Participants are:
- Immigrants who lack Canadian work experience
- have education and/or out of country experience related to our business departments
- are entitled to work in Canada
- unemployed or under employed (20 hours or less per week)
- meet eligibility guidelines set by Service Canada
Why choose Douglas College?
- respected public educational institution for the past 30 years
- serving over 17,000 learners a year at 5 different locations
- high rates of job placement success
- qualified and experienced staff who will work with you one-to-one
- excellent resources including computer and internet access
- receive a Certificate of Completion from Douglas College
Where and when?
The PRACTICE FIRM is located at the Douglas College, Surrey Training Centre:
- 10060 King George Highway, Surrey
- Centrally located between Surrey Central and King George Sky train Stations - across from the Central City Mall
The PRACTICE FIRM operates Monday-Friday, from 9:00am - 3:00 pm.
For more information about The PRACTICE FIRM contact 604-588-7772 or email practicefirm@douglas.bc.ca
To find out more about this program attend a free information session.
Funding
Funded in whole or part through the Canada-British Columbia Labour Market Development Agreement
SOURCE:
http://www.douglas.bc.ca/training-community-education/practice-firm.html
Youth Career and Employment Programs
Employment Programs for Youth
Need help finding a job? Want a student job with the Government of Canada? Looking to build professional experience? Are you an employer and want to know about incentives to create jobs for youth? The Government of Canada has a variety of youth employment programs that can help.
The Basics:
- Employers should read the terms of each program carefully before submitting an application for funding.
- Employers and youth can get further assistance either by calling Service Canada, toll-free, at 1-800-622-6232 or by visiting a Service Canada Centre.
The Programs:
- Young Canadians between the ages of 15 and 30 who are unemployed or under-employed can acquire the experience and skills they need to compete in the labour market by working as interns in host federal government organizations through the Federal Public Service Youth Internship Program (YIP).
- Students and recent graduates can find summer job and internship opportunities from across Canada through the Young Canada Works program from Canadian Heritage and Parks Canada. This program includes opportunities to improve second language skills, work in heritage preservation and work within Canada's National Parks system.
- The Youth Eco Internship Program provides opportunities to young Canadians aged 15 to 30 to gain valuable paid work experience in the growing field of environmental and community employment.
- Full-time students can post their resume at the Federal Student Work Experience Program (FSWEP) Web site and apply for student jobs within the federal Public Service of Canada.
- Create a summer job for students! Canadian employers including not-for-profit organizations, public sector and smaller private sector employers (50 or fewer employees) can apply for wage subsidies to create career-related summer jobs for students between the ages of 15 to 30 through the Canada Summer Jobs program.
- A wide range of community organizations can apply for funding to assist youth facing barriers to employment through the Skills Link program.
- Businesses and other organizations can receive contributions toward offering post-secondary graduates opportunities to obtain career-related work experience through the Career Focus program.
- Advertise summer job opportunities for students by contacting your local Service Canada Centre for Youth (SCCY) which is open from early May to August each year.
Human Trafficking in B.C.
Human trafficking is a global problem and Canada is not immune. Canada has been identified as both a transit and a destination point for human trafficking, and Vancouver has been singled out by the U.S. state department as a port of major concern.
Due to the hidden nature of the crime, most human trafficking activities are undetected or unreported. Human trafficking is a serious violation of human rights. In British Columbia, human trafficking is recognized as a problem that cannot be ignored.
In 2007 British Columbia established the Office to Combat Trafficking in Persons (OCTIP). OCTIP is responsible for the development and overall coordination of British Columbia’s strategy to address human trafficking. OCTIP takes a human rights centered approach. This means that the rights and needs of trafficked persons are placed at the centre of all OCTIP work. In collaboration with other provincial ministries, federal departments, municipal governments, law enforcement agencies, and community organizations, OCTIP aims to eliminate human trafficking and build services for trafficked persons in British Columbia.
OCTIP is focused on the protection of trafficked persons and on the prevention of human trafficking. The Office will also assist law enforcement in the prosecution of human trafficking offenders.
Office to Combat Trafficking in Persons (OCTIP)
The Office to Combat Trafficking in Persons (OCTIP) opened under the Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General in July 2007 with a mandate to develop and coordinate B.C.’s response to human trafficking. As the first office of its kind in Canada, OCTIP has joined forces with key provincial ministries, federal departments, municipal governments, law enforcement agencies, community based and aboriginal organizations, in the development and delivery of an integrated and permanent response to human trafficking in B.C.
OCTIP reports to the Deputy Solicitor General and is jointly funded by two provincial ministries: the Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General; and Children and Family Development.
Goals of OCTIP
Reduce and prevent human trafficking
Identify and protect trafficked persons
Coordinate services for trafficked persons
Contribute to national and international efforts, including prosecutions, to eliminate human trafficking
The Office evolved out of the two year 'Human Trafficking Response Initiative' established in 2005 by the Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General, with a focus on examining the extent of trafficking in B.C. The work to develop a comprehensive response ensuring immediate and ongoing access to services for trafficked persons began at this time.
The Office is partly funded by the Ministry of Children and Family Development where B.C.’s Migrant Services Program provides care and protection to trafficked, resettled, and refugee children and youth. This unique program has been recognized by the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees and the International Red Cross as an exceptional example of best practices for the treatment of separated children and youth.
The Office to Combat Trafficking in Persons is building a parallel service for adults, as well as developing education and awareness strategies to increase public knowledge of human trafficking and how to identify it. The Office is studying global anti-human-trafficking efforts to inform its programs and projects.
British Columbia is leading the way nationally in responding to human trafficking situations, and other government bodies and organizations across the country are turning to B.C. for advice as they develop services and responses for human trafficking.
Source: Human Trafficking in BC
Canada and British Columbia Sign New Agreement on Immigration
Vancouver, April 9, 2010 — Today, Dr. Alice Wong, Parliamentary Secretary to the Honourable Jason Kenney, Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism, and Moira Stilwell, B.C. Minister of Advanced Education and Labour Market Development, signed the new Canada-British Columbia Immigration Agreement.
The signing of today’s agreement with British Columbia will support the integration of newcomers, helping to ensure that they’re able to contribute to our economy and succeed in Canada,” said Minister Kenney. “I am also pleased to announce the first temporary foreign worker annex to this agreement today. This will facilitate the entry of these workers to help British Columbia fill critical labour shortages.”
“The agreement will help Canada attract the skilled international workers it needs to meet the needs of the Canadian economy as we emerge from the global economic recession,” added Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development. “It will certainly strengthen British Columbia’s ability to meet its labour market needs both today and in the future.”
“The renewal of this agreement strengthens our partnership with the federal government and our commitment to providing welcoming and inclusive communities and workplaces in B.C. for newcomers,” said Minister Stilwell. “Immigrants coming to our province not only enrich the social fabric of B.C., they also bring economic advantages, generate innovation, attract industries and workers, and spur economic growth.”
The agreement formalizes and builds on the existing collaborative relationship between Canada and British Columbia on immigration matters and recognizes the importance of involving community partners, including local governments, service providers and the private sector, in welcoming and integrating newcomers. This year, $114 million will be transferred to British Columbia under the agreement to support settlement and integration services and welcoming communities initiatives.
Attracting more immigrants to British Columbia and retaining and integrating them to address British Columbia’s unique economic and social needs will be to Canada’s overall social, cultural and economic benefit.
Canada‑British Columbia Immigration Agreement
Overview
Immigration is a shared responsibility with the provinces and territories. The Canada‑British Columbia Immigration Agreement defines the respective roles and responsibilities of each jurisdiction for immigration matters under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act and Regulations. It supports mutual federal and provincial objectives in the areas of immigrant attraction, selection, admission, retention and integration.
The agreement provides the framework for managing immigration activities, such as provincial nominees, international students, sponsorship, immigration health issues and temporary foreign workers.
It also strengthens accountability and reporting for federally funded settlement and integration services.
British Columbia receives the third largest share of immigrants in Canada – approximately 40,000 immigrants each year. China, India and the Philippines are the top three source countries for immigrants in British Columbia. There are also about 120,000 temporary residents (temporary foreign workers and international students) in British Columbia at any given time.
Immigration is critical to the province’s economic recovery and growth, and will account for most of British Columbia’s net population growth within the next two decades. It is estimated that there will be approximately 950,000 job openings in British Columbia between now and 2020 and it is expected that immigrants will fill one-third of these jobs.
The agreement replaces a previous agreement signed in 2004 and is valid for five years from the date of signing.
Specifically, the new agreement means:
•British Columbia will continue to have a say in permanent and temporary immigration to the province, in support of its social, demographic and economic development and labour market priorities, including skill shortages;
•Canada and British Columbia will enhance their cooperation in overseas immigration marketing initiatives, including attracting skilled workers, entrepreneurs and students to the province. Both governments will also work together to increase information for new immigrants before they arrive;
•The successful settlement and integration of immigrants and refugees in British Columbia will continue to be supported by programs through ongoing federal funding. Settlement and integration supports will also be strengthened for newcomers; and
•Both governments commit to continue working together and with official language minority communities on developing activities to support Francophone immigration and integration in British Columbia.
Funding transferred to British Columbia under the agreement has significantly increased since 2005–2006, from approximately $40 million to $114 million in 2010–2011, reflecting Canada’s increased commitment to funding immigrant services.
In response to these funding increases, in 2007, British Columbia developed WelcomeBC, British Columbia’s strategic framework for immigrant settlement and integration services and welcoming communities initiatives. WelcomeBC is delivered through 377 contracts with over 100 partners, who employ approximately 1,200 workers, including school districts, the private sector and community-based organizations.
Since its inception, WelcomeBC has expanded settlement services across British Columbia to over 85,000 newcomers a year; created settlement services in 850 schools in 21 school districts, serving more than 41,000 immigrant children and their families; increased regional access to English-language training from 29 to 58 communities; introduced a Welcoming and Inclusive Communities and Workplaces Program in 33 communities, which was recognized as a best practice by the G8 expert committee on diversity; and launched WelcomeBC.ca, serving over 25,000 clients monthly.
Facilitating the entry of temporary foreign workers
The Temporary Foreign Workers Annex will improve the responsiveness of the Temporary Foreign Workers Program in British Columbia by providing the province with a greater role in helping these workers come to Canada.
British Columbia will now be able to recommend the issuance of work permits to some temporary foreign workers or groups of temporary foreign workers belonging to a specific occupational group where skill and labour shortages exist, without first requiring a labour market opinion from the Government of Canada. A labour market opinion confirms that the entry of workers will not have a negative impact on the Canadian labour market. The Government of Canada will grant a work permit to applicants after they have met federal admissibility requirements, such as those related to health, criminality and security.
The annex will also help increase the protection of foreign workers. British Columbia will improve information for its temporary foreign workers concerning their rights as workers, their eligibility for British Columbia health insurance, workers compensation benefits, employer- or government-sponsored pension plans, and protection under the relevant provincial or federal occupational health and safety, employment and labour relations standards.
The entry of temporary workers will be facilitated while recognizing the importance of supporting British Columbia’s efforts to train and improve the skills of British Columbians.
Responding to the settlement and integration needs of immigrants and refugees
British Columbia and Canada are cooperating in providing settlement and integration services to immigrants in the province. The present agreement confirms the Government of Canada’s commitment to fair and ongoing funding for settlement services in British Columbia. British Columbia has been responsible for the design, administration and delivery of federally funded settlement and integration services since 1998. Canada will continue to be responsible for the design, administration and delivery of resettlement services for refugees.
This agreement commits both governments to sharing and enhancing accountability for the effective delivery of settlement and integration services. This will include measuring and reporting on the outcomes of these services for immigrants and refugees, such as improved official language skills and improved ability to access the labour market. Both governments also agree to work with other provinces and territories to develop a national accountability framework to ensure that settlement and integration services are delivered effectively to newcomers across Canada.
Expanding partnerships with communities
Both Canada and British Columbia recognize that immigration is a two-way process. Successful integration programs involve the communities in which immigrants will work and live. The agreement recognizes the importance of working with community-based organizations, municipal governments, the private sector and official language minority communities to explore issues related to their respective interests in immigration. This will also help support the development of programs and services for immigrants and maximize the benefits of immigration.
The signing of today’s agreement with British Columbia will support the integration of newcomers, helping to ensure that they’re able to contribute to our economy and succeed in Canada,” said Minister Kenney. “I am also pleased to announce the first temporary foreign worker annex to this agreement today. This will facilitate the entry of these workers to help British Columbia fill critical labour shortages.”
“The agreement will help Canada attract the skilled international workers it needs to meet the needs of the Canadian economy as we emerge from the global economic recession,” added Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development. “It will certainly strengthen British Columbia’s ability to meet its labour market needs both today and in the future.”
“The renewal of this agreement strengthens our partnership with the federal government and our commitment to providing welcoming and inclusive communities and workplaces in B.C. for newcomers,” said Minister Stilwell. “Immigrants coming to our province not only enrich the social fabric of B.C., they also bring economic advantages, generate innovation, attract industries and workers, and spur economic growth.”
The agreement formalizes and builds on the existing collaborative relationship between Canada and British Columbia on immigration matters and recognizes the importance of involving community partners, including local governments, service providers and the private sector, in welcoming and integrating newcomers. This year, $114 million will be transferred to British Columbia under the agreement to support settlement and integration services and welcoming communities initiatives.
Attracting more immigrants to British Columbia and retaining and integrating them to address British Columbia’s unique economic and social needs will be to Canada’s overall social, cultural and economic benefit.
Canada‑British Columbia Immigration Agreement
Overview
Immigration is a shared responsibility with the provinces and territories. The Canada‑British Columbia Immigration Agreement defines the respective roles and responsibilities of each jurisdiction for immigration matters under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act and Regulations. It supports mutual federal and provincial objectives in the areas of immigrant attraction, selection, admission, retention and integration.
The agreement provides the framework for managing immigration activities, such as provincial nominees, international students, sponsorship, immigration health issues and temporary foreign workers.
It also strengthens accountability and reporting for federally funded settlement and integration services.
British Columbia receives the third largest share of immigrants in Canada – approximately 40,000 immigrants each year. China, India and the Philippines are the top three source countries for immigrants in British Columbia. There are also about 120,000 temporary residents (temporary foreign workers and international students) in British Columbia at any given time.
Immigration is critical to the province’s economic recovery and growth, and will account for most of British Columbia’s net population growth within the next two decades. It is estimated that there will be approximately 950,000 job openings in British Columbia between now and 2020 and it is expected that immigrants will fill one-third of these jobs.
The agreement replaces a previous agreement signed in 2004 and is valid for five years from the date of signing.
Specifically, the new agreement means:
•British Columbia will continue to have a say in permanent and temporary immigration to the province, in support of its social, demographic and economic development and labour market priorities, including skill shortages;
•Canada and British Columbia will enhance their cooperation in overseas immigration marketing initiatives, including attracting skilled workers, entrepreneurs and students to the province. Both governments will also work together to increase information for new immigrants before they arrive;
•The successful settlement and integration of immigrants and refugees in British Columbia will continue to be supported by programs through ongoing federal funding. Settlement and integration supports will also be strengthened for newcomers; and
•Both governments commit to continue working together and with official language minority communities on developing activities to support Francophone immigration and integration in British Columbia.
Funding transferred to British Columbia under the agreement has significantly increased since 2005–2006, from approximately $40 million to $114 million in 2010–2011, reflecting Canada’s increased commitment to funding immigrant services.
In response to these funding increases, in 2007, British Columbia developed WelcomeBC, British Columbia’s strategic framework for immigrant settlement and integration services and welcoming communities initiatives. WelcomeBC is delivered through 377 contracts with over 100 partners, who employ approximately 1,200 workers, including school districts, the private sector and community-based organizations.
Since its inception, WelcomeBC has expanded settlement services across British Columbia to over 85,000 newcomers a year; created settlement services in 850 schools in 21 school districts, serving more than 41,000 immigrant children and their families; increased regional access to English-language training from 29 to 58 communities; introduced a Welcoming and Inclusive Communities and Workplaces Program in 33 communities, which was recognized as a best practice by the G8 expert committee on diversity; and launched WelcomeBC.ca, serving over 25,000 clients monthly.
Facilitating the entry of temporary foreign workers
The Temporary Foreign Workers Annex will improve the responsiveness of the Temporary Foreign Workers Program in British Columbia by providing the province with a greater role in helping these workers come to Canada.
British Columbia will now be able to recommend the issuance of work permits to some temporary foreign workers or groups of temporary foreign workers belonging to a specific occupational group where skill and labour shortages exist, without first requiring a labour market opinion from the Government of Canada. A labour market opinion confirms that the entry of workers will not have a negative impact on the Canadian labour market. The Government of Canada will grant a work permit to applicants after they have met federal admissibility requirements, such as those related to health, criminality and security.
The annex will also help increase the protection of foreign workers. British Columbia will improve information for its temporary foreign workers concerning their rights as workers, their eligibility for British Columbia health insurance, workers compensation benefits, employer- or government-sponsored pension plans, and protection under the relevant provincial or federal occupational health and safety, employment and labour relations standards.
The entry of temporary workers will be facilitated while recognizing the importance of supporting British Columbia’s efforts to train and improve the skills of British Columbians.
Responding to the settlement and integration needs of immigrants and refugees
British Columbia and Canada are cooperating in providing settlement and integration services to immigrants in the province. The present agreement confirms the Government of Canada’s commitment to fair and ongoing funding for settlement services in British Columbia. British Columbia has been responsible for the design, administration and delivery of federally funded settlement and integration services since 1998. Canada will continue to be responsible for the design, administration and delivery of resettlement services for refugees.
This agreement commits both governments to sharing and enhancing accountability for the effective delivery of settlement and integration services. This will include measuring and reporting on the outcomes of these services for immigrants and refugees, such as improved official language skills and improved ability to access the labour market. Both governments also agree to work with other provinces and territories to develop a national accountability framework to ensure that settlement and integration services are delivered effectively to newcomers across Canada.
Expanding partnerships with communities
Both Canada and British Columbia recognize that immigration is a two-way process. Successful integration programs involve the communities in which immigrants will work and live. The agreement recognizes the importance of working with community-based organizations, municipal governments, the private sector and official language minority communities to explore issues related to their respective interests in immigration. This will also help support the development of programs and services for immigrants and maximize the benefits of immigration.
QUALIFICATIONS RECOGNITION TO HELP B.C. IMMIGRANTS
VANCOUVER – Immigrants to B.C. seeking employment in regulated occupations will benefit from a new pan-Canadian framework to improve the recognition of foreign qualifications by ensuring that their education, skills, knowledge, and experience are fully utilized in the labour market sooner, announced Surrey-Tynehead MLA and Parliamentary Secretary for Multiculturalism Dave Hayer on behalf of the Minister of Advanced Education and Labour Market Development Moira Stilwell.
“More than 40,000 immigrants arrive in B.C. annually, most are highly educated and experienced, and are a vital part of British Columbia’s economic well-being and long-term growth,” said Stilwell. “British Columbia has been an active participant in the development of this new framework, and we will continue to lead efforts to streamline, simplify, and improve foreign qualifications assessment and recognition practices in Canada.”
Under the new Pan-Canadian Framework for the Assessment and Recognition of Foreign Qualifications, the provinces have committed to a shared vision for making foreign qualifications recognition practices faster, fairer, more transparent, and consistent across the country.
This framework will result in a number of changes for immigrants, including better information to help immigrants prepare for their assessment requirements, more opportunities to begin the qualifications assessment process pre-arrival, assessment processes that are as timely and cost-effective as possible, opportunities for upgrading qualifications, and supports to both individuals and employers that will improve the workforce participation of immigrants across the province.
“As the Parliamentary Secretary for Multiculturalism, I recognize the tremendous challenge that immigrants face in their efforts to establish themselves in their new communities across the province,” said Hayer. “We want immigrants to have every opportunity to use their previous education, skills, and experience here in their new home and this framework will help them do that.”
Other stakeholders will also benefit from this framework. Regulatory authorities will have increased opportunities to collaborate and share information across the country, and support to fairly and accurately assess the qualifications of immigrants so that they can be certified to work in regulated occupations. B.C. employers will also have support for recruiting and retaining immigrants in their workplaces.
In 2009-2010, the B.C. Government invested $4.7 million in initiatives to support improved foreign qualifications recognition in the province. Successes to date have included supports for B.C. regulatory authorities to strengthen their practices for assessing, recognizing and certifying internationally-trained applicants in the regulated occupations, the development of tools and resources to support B.C. employers, working with partners in the health sector to connect immigrants and employers, and pilot programs that provide workplace-focused language training for immigrants.
In addition, B.C. has assisted more than 5,500 immigrants connect to employment through the BC Skills Connect for Immigrants Program, recently investing $12 million in 2009-10 for continued delivery of the program.
Through this new framework, B.C. will build on the progress it has made, while also seeking out opportunities to initiate new collaborative relationships, make improvements to the foreign qualifications recognition practices, and bring about visible changes that will be sustainable into the future.
The Pan-Canadian Framework for the Assessment and Recognition of Foreign Qualifications will be posted online at www.WelcomeBC.ca.
“More than 40,000 immigrants arrive in B.C. annually, most are highly educated and experienced, and are a vital part of British Columbia’s economic well-being and long-term growth,” said Stilwell. “British Columbia has been an active participant in the development of this new framework, and we will continue to lead efforts to streamline, simplify, and improve foreign qualifications assessment and recognition practices in Canada.”
Under the new Pan-Canadian Framework for the Assessment and Recognition of Foreign Qualifications, the provinces have committed to a shared vision for making foreign qualifications recognition practices faster, fairer, more transparent, and consistent across the country.
This framework will result in a number of changes for immigrants, including better information to help immigrants prepare for their assessment requirements, more opportunities to begin the qualifications assessment process pre-arrival, assessment processes that are as timely and cost-effective as possible, opportunities for upgrading qualifications, and supports to both individuals and employers that will improve the workforce participation of immigrants across the province.
“As the Parliamentary Secretary for Multiculturalism, I recognize the tremendous challenge that immigrants face in their efforts to establish themselves in their new communities across the province,” said Hayer. “We want immigrants to have every opportunity to use their previous education, skills, and experience here in their new home and this framework will help them do that.”
Other stakeholders will also benefit from this framework. Regulatory authorities will have increased opportunities to collaborate and share information across the country, and support to fairly and accurately assess the qualifications of immigrants so that they can be certified to work in regulated occupations. B.C. employers will also have support for recruiting and retaining immigrants in their workplaces.
In 2009-2010, the B.C. Government invested $4.7 million in initiatives to support improved foreign qualifications recognition in the province. Successes to date have included supports for B.C. regulatory authorities to strengthen their practices for assessing, recognizing and certifying internationally-trained applicants in the regulated occupations, the development of tools and resources to support B.C. employers, working with partners in the health sector to connect immigrants and employers, and pilot programs that provide workplace-focused language training for immigrants.
In addition, B.C. has assisted more than 5,500 immigrants connect to employment through the BC Skills Connect for Immigrants Program, recently investing $12 million in 2009-10 for continued delivery of the program.
Through this new framework, B.C. will build on the progress it has made, while also seeking out opportunities to initiate new collaborative relationships, make improvements to the foreign qualifications recognition practices, and bring about visible changes that will be sustainable into the future.
The Pan-Canadian Framework for the Assessment and Recognition of Foreign Qualifications will be posted online at www.WelcomeBC.ca.
WORKBC WEB CENTRE OPENS FOR EMPLOYERS, JOB SEEKERS
VICTORIA – A new, comprehensive on-line service will benefit British Columbians seeking career and skills development information, employers looking to improve labour productivity, and skills training service providers interested in emerging best practices, announced Minister of Advanced Education and Labour Market Development Moira Stilwell.
“The new WorkBC web centre brings together a wide range of resources, giving job seekers, employers and trainers easy access to the information and tools they need,” said Stilwell. “It supports our government’s goal to ensure we have the skilled workers we need for a successful future.”
The WorkBC.ca site provides an expanded source of information to meet the needs of each of the core users of labour market information. The five sections – career pathways, job seekers, employers, service providers and labour market statistics – guide users to relevant tools, facts and statistics, presenting case studies and success stories to outline how particular information or services can help.
Developed in co-operation with key user groups, the new web service has relevant information like regional labour force numbers, wages and salaries or occupation forecasts grouped according to each groups’ unique labour market information needs. As users move through the site, they can also use social media tools embedded on each page to easily bookmark and share content.
The new website was developed in part with support through the Canada-B.C. Labour Market Agreement, and helps government meet labour market objectives, ensuring B.C. has the people and skills needed to meet our present and future labour market needs. Other features and services will be added over the coming months as the site continues to evolve.
Under the Labour Market Agreement, the Government of Canada is providing the Province approximately $66 million annually until 2013-14. Through a variety of programs, these funds will increase training for employed individuals who are low-skilled and require essential skills, or who require recognized credentials to reach their full potential in the current marketplace. They will also help increase access to training for unemployed individuals who are not currently Employment Insurance (EI) clients, including but not limited to those who are underrepresented in the labour market.
For more information, please go to www.workbc.ca.
“The new WorkBC web centre brings together a wide range of resources, giving job seekers, employers and trainers easy access to the information and tools they need,” said Stilwell. “It supports our government’s goal to ensure we have the skilled workers we need for a successful future.”
The WorkBC.ca site provides an expanded source of information to meet the needs of each of the core users of labour market information. The five sections – career pathways, job seekers, employers, service providers and labour market statistics – guide users to relevant tools, facts and statistics, presenting case studies and success stories to outline how particular information or services can help.
The site will assist the core user groups in the following ways:
- Students can review career options, see what training, education and qualifications are required, and also look at future demand within their chosen path.
- Employers will find information on hiring and retaining workers, including resources on training, skills development, sources of labour and tips on performance management.
- Job seekers can review employment finding strategies, see what credentials are required for various occupations, and find links to skills upgrading programs and services.
- Career planning professionals can access up-to-date labour market information tracking current and forecast demand for specific job skills, tap into sector-specific resources, such as engineering, resource and agricultural occupation profiles and tools, and access evaluation tools used to help identify specific training needs for their clients.
Developed in co-operation with key user groups, the new web service has relevant information like regional labour force numbers, wages and salaries or occupation forecasts grouped according to each groups’ unique labour market information needs. As users move through the site, they can also use social media tools embedded on each page to easily bookmark and share content.
The new website was developed in part with support through the Canada-B.C. Labour Market Agreement, and helps government meet labour market objectives, ensuring B.C. has the people and skills needed to meet our present and future labour market needs. Other features and services will be added over the coming months as the site continues to evolve.
Under the Labour Market Agreement, the Government of Canada is providing the Province approximately $66 million annually until 2013-14. Through a variety of programs, these funds will increase training for employed individuals who are low-skilled and require essential skills, or who require recognized credentials to reach their full potential in the current marketplace. They will also help increase access to training for unemployed individuals who are not currently Employment Insurance (EI) clients, including but not limited to those who are underrepresented in the labour market.
For more information, please go to www.workbc.ca.
FREE ONLINE COURSES FOR ADULT IMMIGRANTS AND CANADIAN CITIZENS
VLN provides:
VLN could be for you!
- Flexible learning programs to suit your schedule, at home, from a distance, and at your own pace
- A multimedia course delivery including online, print and blended options.
VLN could be for you!
- Register full time, or take only a few courses while you are attending your high school.
- High school grads can upgrade courses or fulfill university and college requirements.
- Busy, working adults can complete high school graduation requirements
- We accommodate students who cannot attend school due to medical conditions.
Adult Programs
We have courses and programs to meet the needs of our adult students looking to upgrade or complete their high school graduation. Adults ,19 years of age and older, can register to be a part-time or full-time student.
We have programs for the Graduated Adult interested in upgrading their grades/marks or taking courses to fulfill post-secondary institutions.
We have courses and programs to meet the needs of the non-graduated adult to meet graduation requirements.
We also have the Adult Dogwood program for adults just looking to complete a high school diploma. Ensure you meet the requirements for post secondary requirements.
Graduated Adult
Courses same as secondary courses vailable (See our course finder)
NO tuition but need to pay deposits
See Graduation requirements 1995 (52 credits), or refer to DE Guidebook
Pre-requisite for taking courses
Non-Graduated Adult
See Graduation requirements 1995 (52 credits)
Important note - Section on Notes: re:Grades 11 & 12 (Graduation Program 1995) - #3 is very important for Non-Graduated Adult
No tuition - but need to PAY for deposits
Adult Dogwood
Adult completion program (20 credits)
See Adult Education/Dogwood Program - Requirements, or refer to our DE Guidebook.
Important note to Adult Grads re: Item #4 - needs to add the following:
Add to #4 - NOTES: Post secondary institutions may require Provincial Exams to be written,
Extra courses may be required to fulfill Post-Secondary requirements
It is strongly advised to make an appointment with the Adult counsellor to ensure all requirements are met for Post Secondary institutions
Please visit the VLN website for more information: http://vln.vsb.bc.ca/
IMMIGRANT YOUTH TO BENEFIT FROM NEW $1.7M PILOT PROGRAM
VICTORIA – A $1.7-million pilot project will help vulnerable immigrant and refugee youth adjust and succeed in their school life, their community and eventually the workplace, announced Moira Stilwell, Minister of Advanced Education and Labour Market Development.
“The Immigrant Youth in Schools Pilot program will provide at-risk immigrant and refugee youth with the relevant skills, enhanced settlement support and educational approaches to ensure they have a positive educational experience,” said Stilwell. “Our government knows the important role immigrants and refugees play in our province and how important it is they feel supported in their new home and in their new schools.”
Eleven school districts will each design a 20-month pilot for in-school support services, like individualized counselling and training courses to help students overcome learning and school adjustment issues and develop connections to their school and their community. The pilot targets vulnerable groups such as older immigrant students arriving with limited English language or formal education, students who have significant social and communication barriers, and students who are struggling with mental and emotional issues as a result of traumatic experiences before arriving in Canada.
School districts delivering the program include Abbotsford, Burnaby, Richmond, Delta, Victoria, Surrey, Vancouver, Coquitlam, New Westminster, Peace River North and Nanaimo-Ladysmith. The districts will provide specialized services for these immigrant and refugee students. The pilot began Jan. 1, 2010.
The pilot will complement the Settlement Workers in Schools (SWIS) program. Under the SWIS program, settlement workers help immigrant and refugee children adjust to school culture. The workers also increase parent involvement in their children’s education, while helping to build awareness of community and government resources. The SWIS program started in 2007 and has expanded to 21 school districts across B.C. The Immigrant Youth in Schools Pilot program addresses the needs of a specific group of immigrant youth in Grades 8 to 12 who are at risk of dropping out or not achieving their full potential.
“The Immigrant Youth in Schools Pilot program will help vulnerable immigrant youth achieve their best in their new schools and in their new home in B.C.,” said Margaret MacDiarmid, Minister of Education. “We have a goal of making B.C. the best-educated, most-literate jurisdiction in North America, and programs like this one will help us reach it.”
“The Government of Canada is committed to helping newcomers succeed,” said Jason Kenney, Minister of Citizenship and Immigration Canada. “Young people who are new to this country face their own unique challenges. With this funding, young newcomers to British Columbia will have access to improved services in their schools that will ease their transition to life in Canada and strengthen the community as a whole.”
Government funding is provided by the Government of Canada through the Agreement for Canada-British Columbia Co-Operation on Immigration.
The Province administers the Settlement Workers in Schools program through WelcomeBC, which supports immigrants and their families in succeeding both economically and socially. WelcomeBC is made possible through funding from the Government of Canada and the Province of British Columbia and helps immigrants in B.C. access services under one umbrella to assist them in better adapting to life in their new communities and builds on the province’s history of welcoming newcomers and creating inclusive communities.
More information can be found at www.WelcomeBC.ca.
“The Immigrant Youth in Schools Pilot program will provide at-risk immigrant and refugee youth with the relevant skills, enhanced settlement support and educational approaches to ensure they have a positive educational experience,” said Stilwell. “Our government knows the important role immigrants and refugees play in our province and how important it is they feel supported in their new home and in their new schools.”
Eleven school districts will each design a 20-month pilot for in-school support services, like individualized counselling and training courses to help students overcome learning and school adjustment issues and develop connections to their school and their community. The pilot targets vulnerable groups such as older immigrant students arriving with limited English language or formal education, students who have significant social and communication barriers, and students who are struggling with mental and emotional issues as a result of traumatic experiences before arriving in Canada.
School districts delivering the program include Abbotsford, Burnaby, Richmond, Delta, Victoria, Surrey, Vancouver, Coquitlam, New Westminster, Peace River North and Nanaimo-Ladysmith. The districts will provide specialized services for these immigrant and refugee students. The pilot began Jan. 1, 2010.
The pilot will complement the Settlement Workers in Schools (SWIS) program. Under the SWIS program, settlement workers help immigrant and refugee children adjust to school culture. The workers also increase parent involvement in their children’s education, while helping to build awareness of community and government resources. The SWIS program started in 2007 and has expanded to 21 school districts across B.C. The Immigrant Youth in Schools Pilot program addresses the needs of a specific group of immigrant youth in Grades 8 to 12 who are at risk of dropping out or not achieving their full potential.
“The Immigrant Youth in Schools Pilot program will help vulnerable immigrant youth achieve their best in their new schools and in their new home in B.C.,” said Margaret MacDiarmid, Minister of Education. “We have a goal of making B.C. the best-educated, most-literate jurisdiction in North America, and programs like this one will help us reach it.”
“The Government of Canada is committed to helping newcomers succeed,” said Jason Kenney, Minister of Citizenship and Immigration Canada. “Young people who are new to this country face their own unique challenges. With this funding, young newcomers to British Columbia will have access to improved services in their schools that will ease their transition to life in Canada and strengthen the community as a whole.”
Government funding is provided by the Government of Canada through the Agreement for Canada-British Columbia Co-Operation on Immigration.
The Province administers the Settlement Workers in Schools program through WelcomeBC, which supports immigrants and their families in succeeding both economically and socially. WelcomeBC is made possible through funding from the Government of Canada and the Province of British Columbia and helps immigrants in B.C. access services under one umbrella to assist them in better adapting to life in their new communities and builds on the province’s history of welcoming newcomers and creating inclusive communities.
More information can be found at www.WelcomeBC.ca.
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