Burnhamthorpe Collegiate Adult Learning Centre (BCALC) offers credit courses to learners (21 and over) in our Adult Program and to young adults (18 -20) in our EdVance Program. Learners may choose to work towards completing their Ontario Secondary School Diploma or upgrade their skills in preparation for college, university or the workplace. We offer 4 terms a school year. Each term serves as an entry point for potential students, and affords learners the opportunity to earn up to 3 credits in 9 weeks. Personalized counselling, diversified instruction, and a welcoming school environment make BCALC a popular choice.
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.
Ed-Vance Program
Ed-Vance (18-21 years), nurtures Student Success. Our teachers are committed to differentiated instruction and our approach caters to the whole learner. Students’ needs shape and drive programming. We offer Credit Recovery, Special Education, the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP), and Dual Credit Programs. We also have a Daily Breakfast Program, Lunch & Learn, and extra-curricular activities. Students also have access to counselling, a Social Worker, and a Public Health Nurse. Transition from Ed-Vance to the Adult Credit Program is seamless, as is access to First Stage Child Care Centre.
Special Education Supports
The Special Education program provides students with Special Educational Needs academic skills and supports to achieve success. 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
● Student Nurse Partnership Program
● Toronto Public Health Nurse
● Rathburn Area Youth Program
● Rexdale Women's Centre Partnership
● Humber College Community Employment
Student Life - Where You Belong
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 peer tutoring and lunchtime sports activities. Other extra-curricular activities include our Astronomy Club, Martial Arts Club, and Games Club. We also have male and female mentorship programs to support student success and well-being. The D.E.V.A. Group and The Leading Ladies are the female mentorship groups, and Brothers Unlimited is the male mentorship group. In addition, we also provide a LGBTQ student support group. Our Lunch and Learn program also provides dynamic motivational speakers and activities that support student success. Field trips 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 important at Burnhamthorpe Collegiate Adult Learning Centre, as we ensure that students are provided a safe and caring learning environment. Each year, we celebrate Winterfest and Summerfest where school programs come together as a learning community. Our monthly Lunch and Learn program brings in various guest speakers such as Mothers Against Drunk Driving and Breakaway Addiction Services. In addition, we have partnered with The Rexdale Women's Centre and The Humber College Community Employment Service. College and university speakers also visit regularly to inform students about programs. Our Construction courses affords our students a pathway towards the skilled trades, and our First Nations Arts Course ensures that all our students are given an opportunity to learn of the great Canadian heritage that First Nations People have established.
