Family English Learning Support
Family English Learning Support (FELS)
At Halifax Public Libraries, we believe learning happens everywhere—not just in school. Our free Family English Learning Support (FELS) program helps newcomer parents and their children (ages 6-16) build skills, confidence, and community connections.
Register your family
When you enter the program, both you and your children will be matched with your own volunteer tutors. Each week, you will meet at the same time and place, in separate sessions, so each of you can focus on your own learning goals.
Parents can get help with:
- English Language Learning (ELL)
- Conversation and vocabulary
- Reading and writing
- Understanding local services
- Everyday communication
Children can get help with:
- Reading and writing
- Math homework
- Computers and technology
- School projects
Who can join?
This program is for newcomer families to attend together. Eligible newcomers include:
- Permanent resident of Canada
- Canadian citizens born outside of Canada (recent immigrants to Nova Scotia are given priority)
- Protected persons as defined in Section 95 of the Immigration & Refugee Protection Act
- Asylum seekers and refugee claimants
- Foreign nationals or their dependents who have been nominated under the Nova Scotia Nominee Program but have not yet received permanent resident status Individuals who have applied for permanent residency through the Nova Scotia Nominee Program or Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, have received an acknowledgment, and currently hold a work permit
- Atlantic Immigrant Pilot Program – PA High-Skilled
- Atlantic Immigrant Pilot Program – PA Intermediate-Skilled
- Atlantic Immigrant Pilot Program – PA International Graduate
- Atlantic Immigrant Pilot Program – Dependent (family members)
- Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET)
Temporary Work Permit holders are not eligible.
Where & When
Sessions run from October 2025 - June 2026.
Alderney Gate Public Library
Wednesdays, 3:30 - 5:00 PM
Halifax North Memorial Public Library
Tuesdays, 3:30 - 5:00 PM