Introduced in August 2021, NEST is a 5-month, full-time, applied learning training program that prepares newcomers and immigrants with the knowledge and skills to participate in the larger social community and economic environment.
Designed to build newcomers’ essential skills for employment success.
What we can help you with
The NEST program builds essential and transferable employment skills for enhanced life experiences for participants, as well as offers personalized approach to learning by providing individual coaching sessions, group training focused on applied learning, Canadian culture and workplace exposure.
Essential skills are:
- Reading
- Numeracy
- Writing
- Digital
- Problem-Solving
- Communication
- Collaboration
- Adaptability
- Creativity & Innovation
Participant Benefits
There are many benefits to participants of the NEST program including:
- Increase employability or eligibility for further training
- Increase essential skills competencies
- Enhance self-confidence in abilities and accomplishments
- Elevate positive attitude to continuous learning
- Demonstrate initiative through innovation
- Make decisions more independently
- Improve resiliency / ability to cope with change
- Build a social community and network among peers
Additionally, Newcomer Centre staff also offer assistance in supporting participants with:
- Improving English communication skills
- Understanding Canadian culture
- Learning computers
- Developing relationships
- Increasing awareness of the labour market
- Conducting successful job searches
- Researching employment and education opportunities
How the Program Works
- 21-22 weeks of full-time classes
- 30 hours per week (6 hours per day) from Monday to Friday (9:30 am—4 pm)
- 90 days (3 months) of supported follow up
- Combination of in-person, online and self-directed study learning
Program Eligibility
Applicants must meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Reside in Alberta;
- Be a Permanent Resident, new Canadian Citizen or Refugee with Positive Notice of Decision Letter
- Have a Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) of Level 3 to 5 in all skill areas: reading, writing, speaking and listening
- Be highly motivated and committed to completing the program
- Be available to attend the full 5 months of full-time training.
- Must have reliable internet access to participate in online learning, presentations, audio/video communication activities.
Upcoming Programs
The NEST program is a hybrid model split between in-class and online learning. Some days students attend in person, and other days they are online. All in-person classes are at our Newcomer Centre downtown location at 10170 112 Street NW.
Next cohort:
- Sept. 14, 2026 – Feb. 26, 2027
Find out More
Depending on household income, participants may qualify for a monthly living allowance while participating in the Newcomer Centre’s NEST program.
- View flyer
- View brochure
- Email NEST@newcomercentre.com
- Contact Digna Lopez 780-423-9687 for more information
This program is funded by Alberta Advanced Education Foundational Learning Assistance.
