ESL 400 – Introduction to English as a Second Language
Build your English communication skills with our ESL 400 – Introduction to English as a Second Language program, an ESL course in Surrey, BC. Delivered in partnership with the British Council, this foundational course helps learners develop confident reading, speaking, listening, and writing skills for everyday, workplace and academic communication also Students who complete ESL 400 and want to continue improving their English can move on to our English Test Preparation program, which focuses on preparing learners for internationally recognized English proficiency exams.
- Updated on: August 31, 2026
Key Information
- Start Date: Continuous Intakes
- Program Duration: 12-15 Hours Per Week
- Homework Hours: 10 Hours Per Week
- Total Tuition Fee: $180 Per Week (Online) $250 Per Week (In Class)
- Delivery Method(s): In-class instruction + Online
☰ Program Description
The ESL 400 – Introduction to English as a Second Language program is designed to help learners develop essential English language communication skills in reading, speaking, listening, and writing. This foundational ESL program supports students in building confidence and improving their ability to communicate effectively in everyday, workplace, community, and academic environments.
Through interactive classroom activities, learners strengthen their reading comprehension, writing strategies, and practical communication skills using real-world community, workplace, and academic contexts. The program emphasizes the integration of all four language skills while encouraging active participation and meaningful language use.
In addition to language development, students enhance important Skills for Success, including Working with Others, Computer and Document Use, Thinking Skills, and Continuous Learning. The program also promotes the development of intercultural skills, helping learners communicate effectively and confidently in diverse cultural and professional settings.
This introductory ESL course provides a strong foundation for continued English language learning and prepares students for further education, employment opportunities and everyday communication in English-speaking environments.
Students who complete ESL 400 and want to continue improving their English can move on to our English Test Preparation program, which focuses on preparing learners for internationally recognized English proficiency exams.
✓ Admission Requirements
Course Prerequisites
No previous formal English study is required. This foundational ESL program is designed for adult learners who want to build essential English communication skills from the ground up. Students of all backgrounds are welcome, with placement determined through the College Interview process during admission
General Admission Requirements
- B.C. secondary school graduation, or equivalent; or
- Be 19 years of age or older and out of secondary school for at least one year as of the first day of classes.
English Language Proficiency Admission Requirements
- Meet the College’s English language proficiency requirements.
Additional Admission Requirement
- Successful completion of a College Interview.
◉ Learning Objectives
Upon completion of this program, the successful student will have reliably demonstrated the ability to:
- Interacting Effectively: Read and write a narrative, take notes on an informal presentation, and read a graph to interpret information.
- Journalling: Read articles on sources of workplace stress, take notes and write a summary, and write journal entries.
- Applying for Positions: Read and prepare a skills inventory, compare websites on resume writing, complete a job application form, and write a cover letter.
- Listening to Lectures: Retell the steps of a study method, listen to a lecture on a scientific or technological topic, and present on a group concept map.
- Conducting Questionnaires: Listen to a group discussion and lecture on an environmental topic and provide suggestions for problems.
- Conducting Focus Groups: Listen to steps for conducting focus groups, analyze a focus group discussion, and moderate a focus group.
- Demonstrating Processes: Listen to instructional videos on production processes, present a production process, and arrange a site visit on the telephone.
- Analyzing Media: Analyze and deconstruct a video advertisement and listen to public service announcements.
- Participating in Meetings: Listen to steps for running an effective meeting, problem-solve formal meeting questions, and role-play a formal meeting.
ⓘ Additional Information
Method(s) of Evaluation*
Students will be evaluated through a combination of assessments, including:
- Quizzes
- Assignments
- Midterm Exam
- Final Exam
- Classroom Participation
Completion Requirements*
Students must achieve a minimum overall grade of 70% or higher to successfully complete the program.
Delivery Method(s)
The program is delivered through the following methods:
In-Class Instruction:
100% of instructional hours are delivered in a classroom or learning environment where instructors and students share the same physical space. Students participate in face-to-face instruction, discussions, and practical learning activities.
Distance Education:
100% of instructional hours, excluding work experience hours (if applicable), are delivered remotely from a B.C. location through online learning platforms.
Required Course Materials:
List textbooks, equipment, uniform and other educational materials required to complete this program.
Program Organization*
➤ Apply Now
Frequently Asked Questions
Everyone from students to professionals looking to improve their English regardless of their previous knowledge of it is welcome to this course.
Classes are taught using a combination of online learning and onsite classes.
The course is meant for everyone regardless of their English skills.
The goal of each activity is to help the participants enhance their ability to communicate effectively in a varying environment. Simplicity is key. Each activity is designed to assist in teaching the necessary communication skills.
Apex Community College operates a rolling intake policy. For many of its programs, students are able to commence their English studies as soon as an intake opens.
To find out more regarding intake dates, admission criteria and application procedure, please be in contact with the admissions staff of Apex Community College. Should you need assistance in selecting the most appropriate study option with regard to your learning objectives, they are able to offer you that support.
Apex Community College operates a rolling intake policy. For many of its programs, students are able to commence their English studies as soon as an intake opens.