Foundational Skills
Literacy and essential skills
are needed for work, learning and life
are the foundation for learning all other skills
help you evolve with your jobs and adapt to workplace change
They provide the foundation for learning all other skills. They enable you to better prepare for, get and keep a job, and adapt and succeed at work.
There are 9 Essential Skills
1. Reading
2. Writing
3. Document Use
4. Numeracy
5. Computer Use/Digital Skills
6. Thinking
7. Oral Communication
8. Working with Others
9. Continuous Learning
You’ll need specific skills in all of these areas for your job.
For example, in manufacturing you may have to
read instructions for operating equipment
complete work order forms
calculate measurements
communicate with suppliers
use computer-controlled equipment
Do you need to upgrade your Essential Skills to prepare for a job? Connect with your local Adult Learning Network for free pathway planning support.
Hamilton
Adult Basic Education Association
905-527-2222
List of LBS programs: https://abea.on.ca/programs/
Niagara
Literacy Link Niagara
905-401-5380
operations@literacylinkniagara.ca
https://www.literacylinkniagara.ca/
List of LBS programs: https://www.literacylinkniagara.ca/program-directory/
Haldimand-Norfolk and Brantford
Literacy Link South Central
519-681-7307
List of LBS programs: https://www.llsc.on.ca/learn-what-you-can-do
They can connect you with programs to upgrade your essential skills for work, get your Grade 12 diploma and upgrade your English language skills.
Literacy and Basic Skills (LBS) Programs
Literacy and Basic Skills programs are free and are for adults 19+ and out of school. They can help you upgrade your skills in reading, writing, math, interpersonal and digital skills. You will work with an instructor to develop a personalized learner plan to meet your goals. LBS programs can help you prepare for high school credits, apprenticeship, post-secondary, employment and for greater independence. LBS programs are flexible and can work with your schedule.
Grade 12 Diploma/Equivalent
Some jobs require you to have your Grade 12 diploma or an equivalent like the GED. The Learning Networks can connect you with a local credit program or help you decide if the GED test or other option might be better for you (like Academic and Career Entrance courses at a local community college).
English Language Programs
If English is not your first language and you feel that you need to increase your English language skills, the Learning Networks can connect you with free programs. This could be an English as a Second Language (ESL) program or a Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) program.