Published: May 31, 2025 | Location: Barrie, Ontario
Introduction
Barrie, Ontario, offers a diverse array of adult learning and continuing education opportunities designed to meet the needs of lifelong learners. Whether you’re seeking to complete your high school diploma, acquire new skills, or pursue personal interests, Barrie’s educational institutions provide flexible and accessible programs to support your goals.
Simcoe County District School Board (SCDSB) – Adult Learning
The SCDSB’s Learning Centres offer a range of programs tailored for adult learners:
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD): Complete your high school education with flexible options.
- Literacy and Essential Skills (LES): Enhance foundational skills for employment or further education.
- English as a Second Language (ESL): Improve language proficiency for daily life and work.
- Personal Support Worker (PSW) Program: Train for a career in healthcare while earning high school credits.
- Prior Learning Assessment & Recognition (PLAR): Receive credits for prior learning and experience.
For more information, visit the SCDSB Adult Learning page.
Georgian College – Continuing Education
Georgian College offers extensive continuing education programs:
- Part-time Programs: Flexible courses in areas like business, health, and technology.
- Micro-credentials: Short, focused programs to quickly upskill.
- Online Learning: Study at your own pace with a variety of online courses.
- Graduate Certificates: Advanced programs for career advancement.
Explore offerings at the Georgian College Continuing Education page.
Simcoe Muskoka Catholic District School Board (SMCDSB) – Continuing Education
SMCDSB provides adult learners with opportunities to achieve their educational goals:
- High School Diploma Completion: Flexible programs to earn your OSSD.
- Educational Assistant Apprenticeship Program: Combine work and study in the education field.
- Language Programs: Courses in various languages for personal or professional development.
Learn more at the SMCDSB Continuing Education website.
Collège Boréal – Adult Upgrading Centre
Collège Boréal offers programs for Francophone and Francophile adults:
- Literacy and Basic Skills (LBS): Improve essential skills for work and life.
- Academic Career Entrance (ACE): Prepare for post-secondary education or employment.
- Equivalency Tests: Assess and validate your skills in various subjects.
Visit the Collège Boréal Adult Upgrading Centre for details.
Language Training for Adults
Several organizations in Barrie provide language training:
- The Learning Centre: Offers ESL and FSL programs.
- YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka: Provides Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC).
- Georgian College: Offers Occupation-Specific Language Training (OSLT).
For more information, visit the Simcoe County Immigration page.
Independent Learning Centre (ILC)
TVO ILC provides distance education for adults seeking to complete high school courses or obtain equivalency credentials.
Explore programs at the Independent Learning Centre.
Conclusion
Barrie offers a wealth of adult learning and continuing education opportunities to support personal and professional growth. Whether you’re aiming to complete your high school diploma, learn a new language, or acquire new skills, the city’s educational institutions provide flexible and accessible programs to help you achieve your goals.
