Since 1988

VanWestCollege

VanWest CollegeEnglish Skills for Future Success

Vancouver Kelowna

•Canada

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Welcome to VanWest College!

Our Promise to Students:To deliver high-quality English programs.

To support students’ goals by teaching them to use English with confidence.

To provide attentive, personalized service, ensuring a successful learning experience, in the classroom and in the real world.

Quality programs and service since 1988

At VanWest College, student satisfaction is our top priority.

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“The school is disciplined in the best possible ways and I feel my skills are improving so much in all aspects.”

Aldo Ramos Cárdenas Mexico

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Excellent Mix Of Nationalities

At VanWest College, student satisfaction is our top priority.

Quality Programs

VanWest College Offers You

Convenient Location

Modern Facilities HomestayExciting, interactive classes, proven teaching methods.

Monthly review and testing and strict “English Only” rules keep VanWest College’s standards high.

An average class size of 12 students means students receive a high level of teacher attention.

VanWest College is in the heart of downtown in both Vancouver and Kelowna.

Beaches, shopping, clubs, theatres, parks, banks, restaurants and all conveniences are a short walk or transit trip away.

Enjoy life downtown!

Bright, clean and colourful.

Computer/language lab with headsets, microphones and webcams.

Wireless high-speed Internet and E-mail access throughout the school.

Staying with a Canadian family is the fastest way to improve your English.

Homestays offer: • Private furnished bedroom • Shared laundry and bath • English speaking families • Convenient locations • Daily meals (optional)

Furnished apartment rentals can be arranged with advance notice.

Great teachers: fully qualified, professional and experienced in teaching English as a second language.

Helpful support staff and counselors provide excellent student service to help you achieve your academic, career or personal goals.

Professional, Caring Staff

Get involved! Practice English and have fun with staff and students; enjoy cultural parties, sports, theatre, boat cruises and much more.

Extended trips include camping weekends and excursions to the Rockies, Whistler, Seattle and other locations.

Activities

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Algeria

Argentina

Austria

Brazil

Canada

Chile

China

Columbia

Croatia

Cuba

Czech Republic

Ecuador

Finland

France

Germany

Greece

India

Indonesia

Iran

Italy

Japan

Jordan

Korea

Kuwait

Libya

Malaysia

Mexico

Netherlands

Pakistan

Panama

Peru

Poland

Portugal

Romania

Russia

Saudi Arabia

Slovakia

Spain

Sweden

Switzerland

Taiwan

Thailand

Turkey

Venezuela

Vietnam

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General English Programs

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Learning English goes beyond the classroom.

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OptionsAM PROGRAM

MONDAY - FRIDAY9:00 - 12:00

PM1MONDAY - THURSDAY

13:00 - 14:30

PM2MONDAY - THURSDAY

14:45 - 16:00

27 hours / week

21 hours / week

15 hours / week

12 hours / week

Take your English to the next levelWhether you need an intensive study package or just want to study part-time, VanWest has a General English program to help you meet your goals. With a variety of study options from 12 to 27 hours, VanWest can customize a study program just for you.

Our morning classes are offered in six levels. At each level, students focus on integrated skills, so your communicative skills (speaking, listening, reading and writing) will improve quickly, as you build a solid grammar foundation.

In the afternoon, you can focus on specific areas you’d like to improve – or pursue your interests -with our extensive selection of afternoon options. We can even provide tutors for students who are beginning their language studies or who want to study more intensively.

Choose General English at VanWest for rapid results that will build your confidence along with your English skills.

When you choose to study English at VanWest, you’re making a choice for your future success.

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General English Options

PRONUNCIATION Improve your pronunciation and overall speaking skills. Emphasis will be placed on correcting key(1,2,3) (4,5,6) pronunciation problems through individualized attention as well as group work.

LISTENING & SPEAKING Your listening and speaking ability will improve through conversations, discussions and interviews. Students (1,2) (3,4) (5,6) will be enrolled in the appropriate level (beginner, intermediate or advanced) based on their English skills.

SINGING IN ENGLISH By singing modern and traditional songs, students will develop listening, vocabulary and pronunciation(all levels) skills. Classes include warm-ups, background of songs and performers and lots of singing and harmonizing.

WRITING FOR COMMUNICATION Fine tune your writing skills through letters, essays, narratives and journals. This lively class will (4,5,6) focus on developing writing according to student needs.

READY TO READ Improve your vocabulary, knowledge of idioms, grammar and comprehension through reading (4,5,6) magazines, newspapers, short stories and essays.

TOEIC This intensive and comprehensive TOEIC preparation course provides you with instruction on all (4,5,6) components of the TOEIC exam. TOEFL An intensive and comprehensive TOEFL preparation course will help students improve in all (4,5,6) sections of the exam.

DOCUMENTARIES & DISCOURSE Sharpen your listening skills, increase vocabulary, practice note taking and enjoy interesting(4,5,6) documentaries. Increase your knowledge of topical issues such as global warming, ecology, energy, history and wildlife.

DEBATES & DISCUSSION This course will improve both the accuracy and fluency of your speech through discussions and (4,5,6) debates on high-interest themes and topics.

FUN WITH PHRASAL VERBS Learn new phrasal verbs, idioms and slang through speaking, reading and listening. There will(3,4,5) be lots of time to practice “colloquial” vocabulary too.

MORE THAN WORDS This public speaking course is designed to help you present your ideas clearly, improve your(3,4,5) communication skills and overcome your worries about speaking in public.

JOB SKILLS Learn how to look for a job in Canada! You will develop important telephone skills, practice(3,4) completing applications and improve your listening and speaking abilities.

WRITING FOR REAL Improve your ability to express your ideas and develop your vocabulary. Focus on combining(2,3) sentences and become a better writer.

TRAVEL & TOURISM I Learn the English skills necessary for working in customer service in a hotel or restaurant.(2,3) Field trips and lab work will be included in this course.

TRAVEL & TOURISM II Experience the life of a tour guide, travel agent or airport agent and explore Vancouver tourist attractions(2,3) while learning new vocabulary and practicing your listening skills. For people who want to work in tourism or just gain more confidence with their English speaking skills.

LANGUAGE IN USE Increase your ability and improve your grammar in everyday situations through various activities(2,3) (grammar games, role-plays) and projects.

READING FOR REAL Improve your reading skills with short readings from newspapers, magazines, essays, stories,(1,2,3) emails and song lyrics. Increase your vocabulary and reading comprehension.

FOCUS ON VOCABULARY Build your vocabulary through reading, listening and interactive activities. Lots of speaking(1,2) practice will give you the opportunity to use your new vocabulary. ENGLISH FOR LIFE SKILLS Review and develop your listening and speaking skills by focusing on practical, everyday English(1,2) topics and situations. Feel more confident in banks and stores around the city.

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Your First Day

Your First Day at VanWest College

VanWest College’s teachers & staff look forward to meeting you on your first day of school.

When you arrive at VanWest College for the first time, please check in at the reception desk.

Please bring your passport and proof of medical insurance with you.

On your first day, you will have a placement test, interview, orientation and safety seminar*. The test will start at 9:00 am so please come early!

We look forward to welcoming you to VanWest College. See you soon!

“Please see the VanWest calendar for Session Starting Dates. The safety seminar is only available on official starting dates.

“I learned a lot, and was able to practice and improve my listening and speaking both in the class and on interesting class field trips.”

Pamella Teixeira Brazil

Sample Activity CalendarVancouver - Winter

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Experience Vancouver & Kelowna

Sample Activity CalendarKelowna - Summer

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Cambridge Test Preparation

Cambridge Test Preparation Course Length: 9 – 12 weeks (FCE and CAE) 4+ weeks (PET, BEC, TKT and IELTS)

Hours: Full-time and part-time options are available, depending on the program.

The University of Cambridge certificates are among the most widely recognized British English language examinations in the world. VanWest’s curriculum incorporates Listening, Speaking, Writing, Reading and Grammar Structure, in addition to essential English language skills and test-taking strategies.

Students must write a placement test to ensure that their language proficiency meets the minimum requirements of all Cambridge programs. Home country level testing can be arranged to determine if the student is ready to enter a Cambridge program. Students in Vancouver or Kelowna can arrange for a placement test at VanWest.

Who benefits from the University of Cambridge certificate programs?• Students who want to learn practical English as it is used by native speakers in professional and academic settings.

• Students who want to further their education in an English-speaking country.

• Students who must achieve a standard of English accepted by their company or professional organization.

• Students who want to take our most intensive study programs.

VanWest offers the following Cambridge options:Preliminary English Test (PET)

Offered as an alternative to General English in the morning, PET is an intermediate level Cambridge program. Graduates will be able to communicate at a satisfactory level in most situations.

First Certificate in English (FCE)

Recognized by many employers and universities as proof of competence in English, FCE is best suited for students at the Upper Intermediate level.

Cambridge Advanced English (CAE)

An advanced level Cambridge course, CAE provides qualifications for professional purposes. It is also widely recognized by universities for admission. Graduates will be able to use English fluently and with ease.

Cambridge Business English (BEC)

This intermediate level course is offered in the afternoons and is a good option for students who want to feel more comfortable in an English-speaking business environment. BEC is recognized around the world.

Teaching Knowledge Test (TKT)

The first level of Cambridge’s teaching program, TKT provides a solid background in teaching methodology for students who are interested in teaching English – or any other language. Suitable for intermediate students.

IELTS

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is rapidly becoming one of the most widely recognized tests of English ability. Focusing on communicative skills, studying for the IELTS exam will improve your Speaking, Listening, Reading and Writing.

VanWest College is an authorized Cambridge Examination Centre.

All tests are administered on-site (with the exception of IELTS).

Teen & Youth ProgramsThese programs are for young students who want to study English and experience life in Vancouver through a wide selection of group activities.

Dates: Spring / Summer / WinterAges: Youth (9 – 15) / Teen (16 -17) Accommodation: Homestay

These programs combine English classes with recreational and cultural activities, sports, tours and excursions.

• Theme-based English language instruction tailored to teens and youth• Hands on tasks: designing & performing short plays, oral presentations, regular homework• A dynamic classroom mixture of nationalities and cultures• Certificate awarded for completion of program

Group Study ToursThese programs are designed for groups of children, youth and adults who have specific language or professional needs.Please contact us to arrange a program customized for your group.

Internship / Study & Work ProgramsVanWest College offers a solid work program to meet the goals and needs of all students. Whether a professional work placement or casual work experience, VanWest College has the right internship program for you! Positions include opportunities in information technology, accounting, hospitality, tourism, service and business administration. All programs require a study and work permit (co-op visa) or working holiday visa. Paid and unpaid placements are available.

Transfer ProgramsVanWest College has partnerships with numerous schools that provide further education in business management, marketing, graphic & web design, fashion design, culinary arts, animation, hotel management, flight attendant training and more. Students can transfer easily from VanWest to a partner school without taking a TOEFL or IELTS exam.

VanWest Online Learning - http://vanwest.intuto.com/ VanWest offers students high quality internet-based English lessons for self-directed study. This exciting program gives students the option of improving their English grammar, reading, listening and test preparation skills before arriving at VanWest College or challenging themselves to progress faster while in VanWest. It is also an effective and economical way to continue learning English after students return to their home country. Programs include general English, IELTS, IT, hospitality, business and more.

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Other Program Options

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A Paradise for International StudentsA popular all-season resort community, Kelowna is the ideal destination for international students. Lakes, mountains and nature are minutes away and great views are everywhere.

English everywhereIn Kelowna, almost everyone speaks English as their first language. Students will improve their English quickly by speaking and making friends with native English speakers.

Inviting atmosphereThe size of the Kelowna school allows students to enjoy smaller classes and unique programs. Students receive plenty of attention and support.

Friendly, safe communityKelowna is a city of approximately 160,000. People have time to say hello, and students quickly feel welcome. Don’t worry, Kelowna has all the stores and conveniences of the big city too!

Lots of sun, lots of funKelowna averages 300 days a year of sunshine. Activities include snowboarding, horseback-riding, boating, winery visits and fruit-picking. Relax in Kelowna’s local pubs, restaurants, coffee shops, galleries and theatres. The school is only a few blocks from Lake Okanagan and its waterfront park and beaches.

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VanWest Kelowna

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A Cosmopolitan LifestyleWhere the mountains meet the sea, Vancouver offers big city fun and excitement close to nature.

Quality of lifeVancouver is beautiful, safe and modern — one of the best cities in the world to live in.

Dynamic school lifeVanWest Vancouver is a medium-sized school that promises a warm and friendly environment, with lots of activities and strong staff support.

Entertainment, culture and sportsVancouver is home to many festivals, parades, concerts and international events. From snowboarding and shopping, roller blading and restaurants, to festivals and fireworks, Vancouver has it all.

One of the warmest year - round climates in CanadaModerate temperatures make Vancouver a great study destination any time of year. Summers are warm, perfect for the beach. Winters are mild, with inviting snow on the mountains.

Convenient transportationWith excellent bus and skytrain services, it is easy to travel from VanWest College to all parts of Vancouver.

VanWest Vancouver

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www.vanwest.comVancouver • Kelowna

Canada

English Skills for Future Success

Vancouver

200 — 1016 Nelson Street Vancouver, BC Canada V6E 1H8

Telephone:604 731-5256

Fax:604 739-0913

info@vanwest.com

Kelowna

104 — 532 Leon Avenue Kelowna, BC Canada V1Y 6J6

Telephone:250 762-5256

Fax:250 762-5221

info@vanwest.com

VanWest CollegeSince 1988

VanWestCollege

VanWest College

VanWest College