VanWest 2012 brochure

VanWest CollegeVancouver | Kelowna B.C. Canada

EST. 1988

English Skills for Future Success

About VanWestFor over 23 years, VanWest College has

provided high quality programs, with attentive

and personalized student services, ensuring

a successful learning exper-ience for our

students. Established in 1988, VanWest is

located in the heart of downtown Vancouver.

In 2005, we added an additional campus in

beautiful Kelowna, British Columbia. VanWest

College is committed to providing all the right

resources for a student’s academic success,

while providing adventurous extracurricular

activities. Our culturally diversified staff is here

to offer support and service to our students,

and to agents from over 20 different countries.

» Contents »VanWest College 4

English Level 6

Programs 6

Program Time Schedule 7

General English 8

Exam Preparation Courses 9

English for Academic Purposes(EAP) 10

University Pathway 10

English for Business and Workplace 11

English Study & Work 12

Specialized Programs 14

Homestay 15

Student Services 15

What Makes VanWest Special?

Individual Student Support We have one primary goal: helping

students achieve their English

language objectives. We’ll be on

hand to give students’ ongoing

support, encouragement, and advice!

Van-West teachers and staff are

committed to providing each student

with the very best in individualized

attention to their program and

progress.

Personalized Study PlanWe know that students want to make

the most of their time here, and we’ll

make sure they do! VanWest offers

a Personalized Study Plan to every

student, drawn up in consultation with

the Director of Studies and student

counselors. The Personalized Study

Plan is created when students begin

their studies. Designed to reflect the

goals and needs of each student, it is

reviewed regularly, to reflect changes

in the student’s needs and interests.

Guaranteed Academic SuccessEvery student’s Personalized Study

Plan will give an indication of how

quickly they can expect to reach their

goals. If a student does not progress

at the anticipated rate, we will provide

support and additional lessons to

help them reach their target level

at no extra charge. The student’s

responsibility is simple. They have

to show their commitment to

success by attending all lessons and

completing all of their assigned work.

Quality Assurance & Quality Control We want to ensure that our students

receive the best learning experience

possible. We are careful to choose

instructors who are passionate about

teaching, and who are up-to-date on

the latest teaching methodology. It’s

essential that our instructors have

been educated at a teacher-training

program recognized by Languages

Canada.

Accredited SchoolsVanWest College is accredited by

Languages Canada and other major

international organizations. These

accreditations prove our commitment

to providing innovative, high quality

English language programs.

Nationality MixVanWest College provides a diversified

classroom experience. Students from

17 different countries are regularly

represented in our school, enriching

each student’s experience as

international friendships are forged.


EST. 1988

VanWest, Vancouver VanWest College is located in the heart of downtown Vancouver – within a

short walking distance from all the key attractions this exciting city has to

offer. We’re conveniently located close to all transportation lines.

About VancouverConsistently listed as one of the world’s most livable cities, Vancouver also

offers spectacular super-natural beauty! With a population of approximately

2 million people from many different cultures, Vancouver offers a great

variety of activities in an exciting, multi-cultural atmosphere. Shopping,

cultural events and festivals, restaurants, and entertainment are all available,

as well as an endless variety of sports and recreation.

Breathtaking sights are guaranteed.

Average Temperature

200 - 1016 Nelson Street

Vancouver, B.C.

V6E 1H8 Canada

Phone: (604) 731-5256

Fax: (604) 739-0913

[email protected]

4 5www.vanwest.com Vancouver | Kelowna B.C. Canada

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VanWest, KelownaLocated in the heart of the beautiful Okanagan Valley in British Columbia,

Kelowna is an ideal destination for international students looking for a truly

Canadian experience. The bright, quaint campus is a five-minute walk from

the main bus station and a five-minute walk to the lake.

About KelownaWith big city comforts and small town charm, Kelowna provides all the urban

amenities of big city life: one-of-a-kind shops and vibrant culture. Nestled

between Okanagan Lake and rolling mountain ranges, it provides year

round outdoor entertainment. Local farms, orchards and vineyards thrive

within a 10-minute drive of the downtown core, and provide fresh summer

produce and delicious winter wines. From the beaches to the ski hills, this

community has something for everyone and every season.

Average Temperature

104-532 Leon Avenue

Kelowna, B.C.

V1Y 6J6 Canada

Phone: (250) 762-5256

Fax: (250) 762-5221

[email protected]

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15.0

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VanWest College

English Level CEFR CLB

Intro to Basic (L1) 1For students who have never studied English before. This course will introduce essential

vocabulary and grammar needed for everyday living.

Elementary (L2) A1 2-3Focusing on the essentials, this class provides the words and grammar students need for

activities like chatting with friends, eating out, and banking.

Pre- Intermediate (L3) A2 3-4For students who are comfortable talking about daily activities and hobbies in English with their

friends. This class will enhance their knowledge.

PET (L4) B1 4-5This class is for students who are confident when talking about things they’re interested in. They

can follow the main idea of most movies and TV shows in English.

Intermediate (L5) B1-2 5-6For students who can talk about many things with friends, including hopes and ambitions. They

can express their feelings and wishes verbally and in written form, too.

FCE (L6) B2 6-7Students can understand spoken and written language quite well. At this level, the focus shifts

to accuracy and precision in spoken and written communication.

Upper Intermediate (L7) B2-C1 7-8At this level, students feel comfortable expressing their opinions and have an awareness of

style, in both speaking and writing. They can understand and express ideas about a variety of

subjects.

CAE (L8) C1 8-9Written and spoken work reflects an awareness of idiomatic and conceptual language. Students

are able to speak flexibly on a range of subjects including social, academic, and business matters

Advanced (L9) C1-2 9-10Students feel comfortable using English for social and business purposes. Awareness of

appropriate expression in formal and informal situations is developed.

EAP (L10) C2 10+Critical thinking, written and verbal skills will be developed at a level appropriate for academic

success in university programs or for professional employment.

Programs L1 L2 L3 L4 L5 L6 L7 L8 L9 L10

General English Course * * * * * * * * * *

Intro to English for Business * *

BULATS * * * *

BEC * * *

PET * *

FCE * * *

CAE * * *

IELTS * * * * * *

Unpaid Internship * * * * *

Casual Paid Internship * * * *

Professional Paid Internship * * *

University Pathway (EAP) *

One-to-One * * * * * * * * * *

Time Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday

8:45 – 11:45 am Core English (15 hrs / week)

11:45 – 12:30 Lunch Time

12:30 – 2:20 pm PM 1 Electives (25 hrs / week)


English Level Programs

Program Time Schedule

7www.vanwest.com Vancouver | Kelowna B.C. Canada6 English Level | Programs | Program Time Schedule

Highlights of General English» Choose 15, 25, or 29 hours per week

» 10 levels, Basic to Advanced

» Recommended program duration: 4 to 60 weeks

» Average class size: 12 students

» Weekly assessment and one-to-one consultations with

instructors as needed

» Personalized Study Plan to track academic progress

» Weekly start dates

Core English (15 hrs / week)

Time Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri

8:45 – 11:45 am Core English

Theme-based lessons in everyday contexts

Students learn English skills within an easy to understand

framework - lessons are based on themes suitable for each level

and pathway; language essentials are taught within the context of

the subject matter. As a result, students are more confident when

using their new language skills. The Core English course focuses

on the four major skill areas (reading, writing, speaking and

listening). There is plenty of opportunity to practice conversation

skills along with enhancing knowledge of grammar, vocabulary,

idioms and pronunciation. Students are introduced to the English

they need to reach their goals.

Intensive English (25 hrs / week)


8:45 – 11:45 am Core English (15 hrs / week)


Core English plus your choice of one PM elective

VanWest College offers focused and topic-based PM classes

that help improve specific skills in English. Academic, business,

communication-based and special interest courses are available.

Students can focus on the areas of English that they want to

improve.

Optimum English (29 hrs / week)


8:45 – 11:45 am Core English

12:30 – 2:20 pm PM 1 Electives

2:30 – 3:30 pm Power Speaking

Improve your fluency in Speaking

By focusing on discussions and role-plays based on realistic

situations, Power Speaking helps students take their vocabulary

and grammar to the next level. The more students are exposed

to English, the better their learning will be – so lots of practice

under the close supervision of an instructor is the key to success!

Students will see a marked improvement in their accuracy, fluency

and confidence when speaking English.

IELTSThe International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is

a universally recognized English proficiency qualification that

is accepted by most English-speaking universities in the world.

Students who are planning to take an under-graduate or graduate

program at a Canadian university, or immigrate to Canada, will

likely have to take the IELTS exam. It is also needed for some

professional qualifications.


8:45 – 11:45 am IELTS / AM Course

12:30 – 2:20 pm Advanced IELTS

2:30 – 3:30 pm IELTS Test Analysis

» Choose 15, 25 or 29 hours per week

» Prerequisite: Level 5 (minimum one month completed)

» Program duration: 4 to 12 weeks

» Average class size: 10 to 12 students

» One-to-one packages can be added

» Weekly start dates

The morning class concentrates on each of the four skills tested

by IELTS: Reading, Writing, Listening and Speaking. Afternoon

classes focus on specific skill development. They are intended to

challenge students who require a 6.0 to 7.0 or higher on the IELTS

exam. VanWest College's very experienced IELTS instructors will

provide candidates with the information they need to achieve

their best result on the IELTS test.

Cambridge ESOL ExaminationsUniversity of Cambridge certificates are among the most

widely recognized English language examinations in the world.

In addition to PET, VanWest offers Cambridge FCE and CAE.

Arrangements can be made for students to take the official exam

at the end of their preparation course if they wish. VanWest has an

exceptional pass rate for FCE and CAE candidates.


8:45 – 11:45 am Cambridge (FCE / CAE)

12:30 – 2:20 pm Cambridge Writing (FCE / CAE)

The curriculum incorporates Listening, Speaking, Writing, Reading,

and Use of English (grammar). Students who want to learn

practical English, as it is used by native speakers in professional

and university settings will benefit from this class. Students learn

to effectively distinguish and use formal and informal English,

with an emphasis on real-life tasks and situations. All students

must successfully pass a pre-test in order to participate in these

courses.

• First Certificate in English (FCE):

» Program: 25 hours per week




» Monthly start dates

A pass on the FCE examination indicates sufficient proficiency in

English to be of practical use in clerical, secretarial and managerial

jobs in many industries, in particular tourism, where contact with

English speakers is required.

• Cambridge Advanced English (CAE):






CAE is an advanced level course of study. Students who pass the

examination are able to show high-level qualifications in English

for professional or academic purposes. CAE is widely recognized

by universities for admission. CAE graduates have the confidence

to use English fluently and with ease.

9www.vanwest.com Vancouver | Kelowna B.C. Canada

General English Exam Preparation Courses

PM Electives L1 L2 L3 L4 L5 L6 L7 L8 L9 L10

Pronunciation * * * * * * *

Writing * * * * * * * * * *

Power Speaking * * * * * * * * * *

More Than Words * * *

Documentaries and Discourse * * * *

Street Talk * * * * *

Focused Listening * * * * * * * *

Vocabulary Express * * * *

Intro to Business English * * *

Workplace Placement Prep * * * * *

Academic Skills Booster * * *

IELTS * * * * * *

** PM elective offerings are subject to change, based on enrollment

Sample of PM Skills Classes:

8 General English | Exam Preparation Courses


Business English Certificate (BEC) » Program: 25 hours per week





This Business English Course is for students with intermediate

to upper intermediate level English. It is specifically designed

by Cambridge University to develop spoken and written skills

for those who work in business, or are planning to do so. The

program covers current issues in marketing, public relations,

business ethics, management and human resources. Discussions

and assignments include reading, writing, listening and speaking

topics that are related to on-the-job situations.


8:45 – 11:45 am BEC or BULATS

12:30 – 2:20 pm PM 1 Electives

Diploma in Business English/BULATS» Program: 25 hours per week

» Prerequisite: Level 8 or successful completion of BEC

» Program duration: 12 weeks


» Start dates: every three months

VanWest’s Diploma in Business English/BULATS is an excellent

choice for motivated, focused business professionals who use

English at an advanced level. BULATS (The Business Language

Testing Service) is designed to measure the ability of non-native

speakers to implement English in everyday working situations.

BULATS is a widely recognized language test, and is a reliable way

of assessing the language ability of employees or trainees. Our

instructors are highly experienced, with strong academic English

and business backgrounds.

English for Business and Workplace

The English for Academic Purposes (EAP) program is a

comprehensive, intensive program designed to prepare students

for the challenge of academic life at a Canadian university or

college. The focus will be on critical thinking, and the expression

of ideas, both verbally and in writing. Upon successful completion

of the EAP program with an overall average of 80%, students will

be eligible to enter ESL 050 or an undergraduate program at the

University of Regina.


» Prerequisite: Level 10

» Program duration: 12 weeks


» Start dates: every three months


8:45 – 11:45 am EAP

12:30 – 2:20 pm Advanced Writing

English for Academic Purposes (EAP)

University of ReginaThe University of Regina is one of the top 10 comprehensive

universities in Canada and is a leading public research facility.

Located in Saskatchewan, Canada, the U of R has nine faculties

including Arts, Business Administration, Education, Engineering,

Graduate Studies and Research, Fine Arts, Kinesiology and Health

Studies, Science, and Social Work. It is home to the Information

Technology Centre (ITC), the Petroleum Technology Research

Centre (PTRC), the International Test Centre for Carbon Dioxide

(CO2) Capture, a new, three-storey Greenhouse Gas Technology

Centre, and more. In addition to impressive academic facilities

and counseling services, the University offers student residences,

meal packages and an employment guarantee.

University Pathway

10 EAP | University Pathway | English for Business and Workplace

VanWest’s English Study & Work program provides an exceptional opportunity for International students to combine Business English

in the classroom with real-life communication in the Canadian work environment. This opportunity will enhance a student’s language

abilities and expand their career options.

The off-campus paid or unpaid Internship is a monitored work experience related to a student’s previous work experience or field of

academic study. The internship program offers an opportunity to put into practice concepts that were previously set up in the classroom.

Internship participants are asked to complete regular online reports. If there are any difficulties during an internship placement, we will

work with both intern and employer to resolve them.

This program is available on the basis of 50% study and 50% job placement in accordance with visa/permit regulations set out by

Citizenship and Immigration Canada.

Casual Work ExperienceThe VanWest Casual Work Experience program combines full time

English studies with work experience at a Canadian restaurant,

cafe, shop or hotel. Students can meet young Canadians and

improve their English while earning money and discovering new

parts of Canada. Candidates for the Casual Internship program

must complete 8 weeks of the Business English Certificate

program.

» Study program: 25 hours per week

» Prerequisite: Level 5 and completion of 8 weeks of the BEC

course


» Age: 19 to 35

» Visa requirement: Must obtain a C30 Work/Study Permit,

Working holiday visa, Young Worker Exchange visa or Study

Work Abroad visa.

» Medical insurance must be valid for the whole period of the

stay.

» English Level Assessment: Students must successfully pass a

pre-test in order to participate in this program.

Each casual work student will have a choice of placement

opportunities. When students register for the CWE program, they

will be asked to choose three work placement options and rank

them in order of preference.

Professional Work ExperienceBased on previous work experience and education, students

will be placed in a Canadian-based company. Candidates gain

experience in their area of specialty through a professional

internship. Fully paid internships are available with a wide variety

of companies, and jobs can be arranged from a minimum of

6 months up to 12 months. Qualifying candidates must have a

successful interview to be matched with a prospective employer.

Candidates in the Professional Internship program must

complete 8 weeks of Business English (BEC) and 12 weeks of

the Diploma in Business English program. In addition, students

must meet all requirements necessary for the position to which

they are applying. This program is professionally organized and

candidates are supported before, during and upon completion of

the program.


» Requirement: Level 8 and above


» Age: 21 to 35

» Visa requirement: Must obtain a C30 Work/Study Permit or

Working Holiday Visa



» Medical Insurance: Must be valid for the whole period of the

stay.

» Education Requirement: A degree or career-related certificate

or diploma is required.

» Experience Requirement: minimum of 1 full year of recent

related experience


English Study & Work

Unpaid InternshipThis program is suitable for university students who have the

desire to gain work experience in their field of studies. This is a

100% guaranteed internship program and participants will be

working for a Canadian-based company. Through this internship,

students will be able to apply what they have learned in their

classrooms to a real life work setting.


» Requirement: Level 5 and completion of 8 weeks of VanWest’s

BEC course


» Age: 19 to 35


Working Holiday Visa, Young Worker Exchange Visa or Study

Work Abroad Visa.

» Medical insurance: must be valid for the whole period of the

stay.



Combined InternshipIt is a program that combines our Unpaid Internship and Casual

Work Experience to provide students the best of both programs.

Students will have their time split into two, one professional, one

casual. It is suitable for students with desire to quickly gain work

experience, learn English, and earn money, all at the same time.

During the professional facet of the program, students will be

working for a Canadian-based company and provides students

great opportunity to apply what they have learned in their

classrooms.

During the casual work facet of the program, students will work in

service-oriented companies like Canadian restaurant, café, retail

or hotel. It is a great way to meet new friends and further improve

their English while earning money.

» Study program: 25 hours per week

» Prerequisite: Level 5 and completion of 8 weeks of the BEC

course


» Age: 19 to 35


Working holiday visa, Young Worker Exchange visa or Study

Work Abroad visa.

» Medical insurance must be valid for the whole period of the

stay.



12 English Study & Work

One-to-OneIndividualized focus and customized to your needs

One-to-one lessons pinpoint a student’s individual needs and

help them focus their studies even further! One-to-one lessons

are designed for students, by the students. Personalized attention,

guidance and feedback from our experienced and friendly

teachers will help you reach your English goals.

Accelerated English ProgramThe Accelerated English Program consists of our Intensive

English program combined with 4 hours of personalized, one-

to-one lessons. This program is designed to maximize the

student’s academic and English skill to enable them to reach

their educational goals during the time of their stay. During the

group lessons, students can interact with other students while

developing fully integrated skills. During one-to-one sessions,

students can focus on their specific needs. Students may choose

a 29 or 33 hour per week program.

• Accelerated 29 Program

VanWest’s Accelerated 29 English Program consists of 15 hours

of morning Core English instruction, 10 hours of an academically

focused skills classes and 4 hours of personalized one-to-one

lessons.

• Accelerated 33 Program

VanWest’s Accelerated 33 English Program consists of 15 hours

of morning Core English instruction, 14 hours of academically

focused skills classes and 4 hours of personalized one-to-one

lessons.


Specialized Programs

Youth ProgramsThese programs are for young students who want to study

English and experience life in Canada through a wide selection

of group activities.

» Dates: Spring / Summer / Winter

» Ages: 11 to 17

» Accommodation: Homestay

These programs combine AM English classes with PM and

Saturday recreational and sports activities, tours and excursions.

» Theme-based English language instruction tailored to 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 TourThese programs are designed for groups of children, youths and

adults who have specific language or professional needs. Please

contact VanWest to arrange a customized program.

Staying with a Canadian family is the fastest way to improve

your English. VanWest College will ensure safe, comfortable and

friendly host families. All families have been interviewed, visited

prior to placement, evaluated and approved. Our Homestay

Coordinator is available on-site to provide assistance to students

anytime.

Activities VanWest College organizes many activities to provide students

with cultural and academic learning! Activities are a great way to

have fun, make new friends and experience Canadian and other

cultures!

CounselingVanWest College provides on-site counseling in students' native

language to answer questions and provide advice and support.

Student Visa Canada Immigration requires a Student Visa for students from

certain countries. For information and procedures, please see

Citizenship and Immigration Canada www.cic.gc.ca

Medical Insurance Students are required by law to have Medical Insurance while

residing in British Columbia or traveling in Canada. Students who

do not purchase their own medical insurance before leaving

their home country must buy insurance on the day they arrive

at VanWest College. Students are responsible for all medical

costs incurred while they are in Canada. VanWest College is not

responsible for any sickness, injury, loss or damage incurred on

school premises or on school activities, tours, or in their Homestay.

Homestay Student Services

14 Specialized Programs | Homestay | Student Services


EST. 1988

Vancouver Campus200 - 1016 Nelson Street

Vancouver, B.C.

V6E 1H8 Canada

Phone: (604) 731-5256

Fax: (604) 739-0913

[email protected]

Kelowna Campus104-532 Leon Avenue

Kelowna, B.C.

V1Y 6J6 Canada

Phone: (250) 762-5256

Fax: (250) 762-5221

[email protected]

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VanWest 2012 brochure

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