English as a Second Language (ESL) Program for Academic Success
The English as a Second Language (ESL) Program at Toronto High School is a dedicated academic stream designed to provide international students and those with non-English primary instruction with the essential linguistic and cultural competencies required for success in the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) curriculum and subsequent university studies. Recognizing that language proficiency is the gateway to academic achievement, our program offers a comprehensive, staged progression that aligns with Ministry of Education standards.
Our ESL program is structured into five distinct levels, corresponding to the Ministry’s framework:
| Level | Subject Area | Course Name | Course Code |
| 1 | English as a Second Language | ESL, Level 1 | ESLAO |
| 2 | English as a Second Language | ESL, Level 2 | ESLBO |
| 3 | English as a Second Language | ESL, Level 3 | ESLCO |
| 4 | English as a Second Language | ESL, Level 4 | ESLDO |
| 5 | English as a Second Language | ESL, Level 5 | ESLEO |
These accredited courses are an integral part of our curriculum and count as credits toward the OSSD. The program moves beyond basic language acquisition, focusing on the development of academic English skills, including:
- Advanced Reading Comprehension: Critically analyzing academic texts and synthesizing complex information.
- Academic Writing: Mastering essay structure, research paper formatting, and formal report generation.
- Critical Listening and Speaking: Engaging effectively in classroom discussions and delivering formal presentations.
Our ESL faculty are experienced in scaffolding language learning to ensure students can successfully transition into mainstream English courses, such as the mandatory Grade 12 University-level English (ENG4U), and ultimately thrive in a Canadian university setting. We encourage international students to utilize our multilingual staff for additional support in adjusting to life in Toronto. The proficiency gained through our rigorous ESL curriculum provides a significant advantage in all subsequent academic and career pursuits.