English Language Learners are individually assessed upon arrival at the Newcomer Welcome Centre to best determine their ELL level placement. Churchill’s ELL program is divided into language ability levels. Churchill also offers a Transitional program to assist students almost ready for the regular program, and English Language Centre blocks to assist students newly enrolled in regular English courses. 

The ELL program consists of adapted courses in English, Social Studies and Science at different levels for both junior and senior students. Math, P.E. and electives are taken in regular courses.  Language courses such as French, Spanish and Japanese are usually delayed until students have left the ELL program. 

ELL students study English, Social Studies, and Science with a variety of ELL teachers. Teachers use a language-in-content approach where the skills of reading, writing, listening and speaking are taught while supporting the students’ learning in different subject areas. ELL teachers use a variety of resources, and activities to assist students acquire English language skills. 

Students are integrated into Transitional English, Science and Social Studies courses as soon as they are ready to manage the linguistic demands of the curriculum. Assessment is ongoing and promotion into Transitional English or Regular English is determined on an individual basis.  ELL students who are newly enrolled in a regular English class are often given an English Language Centre block to support them with their English.